The motor & tranny are sourced from the W140 500SEL...early SLs didn't have LH fuel injection so were down on torque vs. 500E/500SELs with the LH hot wire injection setup. Many front suspension bits were also pilfered from the 500SL, however many were adapted (Porsche spec'd, MBZ produced) specifically for the 500E.

Power output was supposed to be identical, but I've heard from solid sources at MBZ that the strongest-running 5.0 liter motors were tagged for 500E duty. Further, the 500E exhaust system is HUGE, and likely helped power output. If my car's indicative of the breed, I believe it. But it's also as docile as can be, and I'm almost certain cams etc. are the same as 500SELs or 500SLs.

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All the best, Michael
500E
300TE