BY MALCOLM LIVERMORE | 17th May 2001
The engine features lightweight design, three valves per cylinder and dual ignition
It produces 205kW at 5750rpm and 400Nm between 3000rpm and 4400rpm
It undercuts European emission guidelines by 50 per cent and is among the most environment-friendly engines in the world
The E430 is equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission which can be left to its own devices or operated as a manual via the shifter
The Speedtronic engine governing system enables a maximum speed to be set at the press of a button, eliminating the risk of speeding fines
The E430 features multi-link independent rear suspension with an anti-squat and anti-dive system
Stopping power comes via hydraulic dual-circuit disc brakes, ventilated on the front
Optional Xenon headlamps contribute to safety by providing better night-time driver vision. Xenon lamps are twice as bright, last five times longer and consume 30 per cent less power than conventional lamps
A digital display in the instrument binnacle informs the driver how much time remains to the next service
The doors can be locked automatically as soon as the vehicle moves off
Active safety features include Brakes Assist (BAS), which shortens braking distances in emergency situations, and Acceleration Skid Control (ASR), an advanced traction control system. The E430 also benefits from Electronic Stability Program
The E430 rides on 7.5x16-inch rims shod with 215/55R16 tyres