Placo is absolutely correct:
When they designed the 500E they took the performance to its limits. granted, some concessions were still made to keep the car a comfortable car to live with, however, the balance struck by MB and Porsche with this particular car is phenominal.
Yes, you can get more out of it, but that usually involves a considerable amount of cash and comprimising the comfort level of the car.
IMHO, taking into account more than just performance numbers but also considering drivability, reliability, liveability and fun factor as well as exclusivity and cost of ownership, for a car that's straight out of the box, bone stock, you'll find VERY few dual purpose cars of the same era that will ever match, and even fewer that will surpass, the 500E.
'Nuff said.
