Mercedes-Benz - 200-500 (1991)

Mercedes‑Benz 200‑500: A Legend in 1991 Value and Market Demand

When you think of a Sunday‑morning drive in a 1990s luxury sedan, the Mercedes‑Benz 200‑500 instantly comes to mind. Launched in the early ’90s, this model balanced performance, comfort, and a distinctive design that set it apart from its contemporaries. If you’re curious about its place in today’s market, you’ll want to understand how the Mercedes‑Benz 200‑500 price has evolved, especially for the 1991 variants, and what a used model actually brings to the table. The 1991 year was a pivotal one for the model’s production, so let’s dive into the details that modern buyers and collectors look for.

• Engine: 2.5 L inline‑six, 4‑valve DOHC, 159 hp, 163 lb‑ft torque
• Transmission: 4‑speed automatic (A4) or optional 5‑speed manual
• Fuel Type: Premium gasoline, typical fuel economy 18‑20 mpg city / 25‑27 mpg highway
• Dimensions: Length 5.73 m | Width 1.83 m | Height 1.48 m; Wheelbase 3.04 m
• Weight: Approx. 1,400 kg (depending on trim)
• Interior: Ten‑in‑one upholstery options, wood trim, climate control, optional AMG “Roadster” seats
• Exterior: Signature front grille, 17‑inch alloy wheels, chrome bumpers, panoramic roof (limited editions)
• Safety Features: Dual front airbags, ABS braking, stability control, optional front‑side airbags in later models
• Mileage (Typical for 1991 units): 45–80 k mi, depending on use

The depreciation curve for luxury sedans in the mid‑90s can be surprisingly smooth. For the Mercedes‑Benz 200‑500 depreciation:

• First year: typically loses 15‑20% of its value in the immediate post‑purchasing window.
• After two to three years: another 10‑15% drop as newer models hit the market and the 200‑500’s novelty fades.
• Long term (5+ years): Depreciation slows dramatically; vehicles often retain 40‑50% of their original cash price, largely driven by condition, mileage, and maintenance history.
• For a 1991 Mercedes‑Benz 200‑500 price, most listings today show a range where well‑maintained specimens still hold 35‑45% of the vehicle’s initial value.

Because the 1991 model is now considered a classic, its depreciation curve shifts from price loss to price appreciation once the vehicle reaches a certain age or passes a certified condition threshold. This transition can tip the scales in favor of buyers looking for a relatively affordable entry into the classic luxury class.

When you compare the Mercedes‑Benz 200‑500 price to contemporaries like the BMW 5‑Series 524i or the Audi S4, you’ll notice distinct differences:

• Pricing: In the same age bracket, the 200‑500 typically sells for 5‑10% higher than the comparable BMW or Audi when in near‑factory or “like-new” condition, largely because of its smoother ride and more elaborate interior.
• Resale Value: The 200‑500’s resale price tends to remain steadier over time. The models from 1991 have been celebrated for their mechanical reliability, which in turn keeps their resale prices on the lower cubic side of depreciation.
• Maintenance Inferences: Zero‑emission motor technologies in modern sports sedans are now under scrutiny, whereas the 200‑500’s internal six‑cylinder engine still benefits from simpler repair pathways and robust parts availability.

In the sub‑category of “classic luxury sedans,” the 200‑500 is particularly popular in the American collector market