Mercedes-Benz R-class W251 R 500 V8 (306 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC


Overall Rating

7.5 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 3.8 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 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)

W251 Overview:

Mercedes-Benz R-class (W251). With 460 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2115 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 6.9 s). The top speed reaches 245 km/h. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. With seating for 6, it’s perfect for larger families.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class (W251) was not tested by Euro NCAP. However, as a Mercedes-Benz vehicle of its era, it was engineered with a strong emphasis on passive and active safety features, including multiple airbags, ABS, and ESP, providing a high level of occupant protection.

R 500 V8 (306 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Delivers smooth, effortless V8 power with strong acceleration, providing a truly luxurious and potent driving experience.

Fuel Economy

High fuel consumption is a significant drawback, making it an expensive option to run, especially in urban environments.

Best Use Case: Highway / Luxury

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Exceptional interior space and passenger comfort, especially in 6-seater configurations.
  • • Smooth and refined ride quality, ideal for long journeys.
  • • High-quality interior materials and luxurious appointments.
  • • Powerful engine options, including strong diesels and a rare AMG variant.
  • • Available 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability.

Cons:

  • • Divisive exterior styling that didn't appeal to all buyers.
  • • Large footprint makes it challenging to maneuver and park in urban areas.
  • • High fuel consumption for petrol models, especially the V8s.
  • • Some known reliability issues with early M272/M273 engines (balance shaft) and 7G-Tronic transmissions.
  • • Steep depreciation from new, though this makes it a good used value.

Specifications:

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:R-class
Generation:W251
Modification (Engine):R 500 V8 (306 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC
Start of production:2005
End of production:2007
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:6
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:306 Hp @ 5600 rpm.
Power per litre:61.6 Hp/l
Torque:460 Nm @ 2700-4750 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 113.971
Engine displacement:4966
Number of cylinders:8
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:3
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:SOHC
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) - urban:18.6-19.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:10.1-10.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC):13.3-13.9 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC):18.6-19.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC):10.1-10.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:13.3-13.9 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 4
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:6.9 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:6.9 sec
Maximum speed:245 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:6.9 kg/Hp, 144.7 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.6 kg/Nm, 217.5 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6.6 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:2115
Max. weight:2865
Max. roof load:100 kg
Max load:750
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1950 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):2100 kg
Fuel tank capacity:80 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:750 kg
Size:
Length:4922 mm mm
Width:1922 mm mm
Height:1661 mm mm
Wheelbase:2980 mm mm
Width including mirrors:2168 mm
Front track:1665 mm
Rear (Back) track:1658 mm
Front overhang:922 mm
Rear overhang:1020 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):11.7 m
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears7
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeG-TRONIC
Front brakesVentilated discs
Rear brakesVentilated discs
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size255/55 R18; 255/50 R19
Wheel rims size8J x 18; 8J x 19
Front suspensionDouble wishbone, Transverse stabilizer
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer

Is it love at first sight with the Mercedes-Benz R-class? Tell us your story!