I have both a 1993 500E and a 1988 360TE AMG wagon (W124 wagon with a 1995 C36 AMG engine & tranny).

The 500E is stock, and the wagon has SportLine front suspension, 500E rear suspension, and 500E brakes all around.

The 1995 C36 AMG is conservatively rated at 268HP and 276 ft-lb torque, almost the same as a W124 400E. The 1997 C36 is up to 278 HP and 280 torque.

Moreover, the wagon has a 3.07 limited-slip differential from a Euro 190E 2.3-16v Evolution II.

The wagon will beat the 500E to 85 MPH from a standstill. My mechanic who is a SCCA racer and has timed trial my 500E at EuroTuner Fest @ WillowSprings (3rd in class) could not believe it.

We raced side-by-side on a freeway on-ramp. He was in my 500E, and I was in the wagon. The wagon won by 2-car lengths to the next exit. After 85 MPH, the 500E catches up quick.

We haven't seen at which speed the 500E actually passes the wagon, but I believe it will be at 95-105 MPH.

Now add 3.07 gears to a 400E, and watch out.

:-) neil
1988 360TE AMG (wishing for a 5 or 6-speed auto)
1993 500E