500 SE (special protection version)

Combustion principle:
four-stroke petrol (with manifold injection)
Configuration:
front, longitudinal; vertical
Engine type:
M 117 E 50 / 117.961; from 10.1981: 117.963
Number of cylinders / arrangement:
8 / 90° V; light-alloy block
Bore x Stroke:
96.5 x 85.0 mm
Total displacement:
4973 cc (tax classification: 4939 cc)
Compression ratio:
8.8; from 10.1981: 9.2
Rated output:
240 hp / 177 kW at 4750 rpm;~from 10.1981: 231 hp / 170 kW at 4750 rpm
Rated torque:
404 Nm at 3200 rpm; from 10.1981: 405 Nm at 3000 rpm
Number of valves / arrangement:
1 intake, 1 exhaust / overhead
Valve operation:
1 overhead camshaft per cylinder bank
Camshaft drive:
double roller chain
Fuel system:
manifold injection, mechanically controlled (Bosch K-Jetronic)
Fuel tank: position / capacity:
above the rear axle / 90 l

Frame design:
steel unit body
Front-wheel suspension:
double wishbone
Rear-wheel suspension:
semi-trailing arm axle (hydropneumatic level control optional)
Front springs:
coil springs, supplementary rubber suspension, torsion bar stabiliser
Rear springs:
coil springs, hydropneumatic spring struts, torsion bar stabiliser
Shock absorber front/rear:
gas-pressure shock absorbers
Steering:
recirculating-ball power steering
Brake system (foot brake):
hydraulic dual-circuit brake system with vacuum booster, antilock system optional (from 12.1984 as standard); disc brakes front (internally ventilated) and rear
Parking brake (hand brake):
mechanical (foot-operated), acting on rear wheels
Wheels:
light-alloy wheels
Wheel rims:
6 1/2 J x 14 H 2
Tires:
215/70 VR 14
Driven wheels:
rear wheels
Drivetrain:
divided cardan shaft