Mercedes-Benz R-class Long (V251) R 500 V8 (306 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC


Overall Rating

7.2 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 3.5 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 4.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Mercedes-Benz R-class:

The Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a mid-size luxury MPV introduced by Mercedes-Benz in 2005 for the 2006 model year. Following the success of the smaller A- and B-Class MPVs, Mercedes in collaboration with coachbuilder Stola presented a concept vehicle, Vision GST , at the 2002 Detroit Auto Show and a second one, Vision R presented at the 2004 Detroit Auto Show, subsequently introducing the production version at 2005 New York International Auto Show. The R-Class was manufactured in Vance, Alabama until 2015 when its production was shifted to Mishawaka, Indiana for a smaller volume production until 2017....(Read more on Wikipedia)

Long (V251) Overview:

Mercedes-Benz R-class (Long (V251)). With 460 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2240 kg, it’s on the heavier side. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7 s). The top speed reaches 245 km/h. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

R 500 V8 (306 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Provides strong, smooth V8 power, though it's the earlier, less potent version of the R 500, still capable.

Fuel Economy

High fuel consumption, typical for a large displacement V8, especially with 4MATIC, impacting running costs.

Best Use Case: Comfortable highway cruising, luxury family transport, older V8 enthusiasts.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Exceptional interior space and comfort for all passengers
  • • Luxurious and well-appointed cabin materials
  • • Smooth ride quality, especially with optional air suspension
  • • Wide range of powerful and efficient engine options (especially diesels)
  • • Available 4MATIC all-wheel-drive for enhanced traction
  • • Unique styling that stands out from traditional SUVs/minivans

Cons:

  • • Polarizing exterior design not universally appealing
  • • Large dimensions can make city driving and parking challenging
  • • Higher fuel consumption for petrol V6 and V8 engines
  • • Potential reliability concerns with certain engines (M272 balance shaft) and air suspension
  • • Complex electronics can lead to costly repairs
  • • High depreciation on the used market, but also high maintenance costs

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(W251: 2005 - 2007).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:R-class
Generation:Long (V251)
Modification (Engine):R 500 V8 (306 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC
Start of production:2006
End of production:2008
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:306 Hp @ 5600 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:61.6 Hp/l [235mm more]
Torque:460 Nm @ 2700-4750 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 113.964 More details about the engine M 113.964
Engine displacement:4966
Number of cylinders:8
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:8.5 l
Coolant:10.1 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:97 mm mm
Piston Stroke:84 mm mm
Compression ratio:10:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:13.3 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 5
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7 sec
Maximum speed:245 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:7.3 kg/Hp, 136.6 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.9 kg/Nm, 205.4 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6.7 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:2240
Max. weight:2895
Max. roof load:100 kg
Max load:655
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:2385 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):2100 kg
Fuel tank capacity:80 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:750 kg
Size:
Length:5157 mm mm [235mm more]
Width:1922 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1674 mm mm [13mm more]
Wheelbase:3215 mm mm [235mm more]
Front track:1661 mm
Rear (Back) track:1651 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):12.4 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears7
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeG-TRONIC
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size255/55 R19 W
Wheel rims size19
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer

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