Mercedes Announces Big Plans For 1997.

06/21/96

Speaking before a group of automotive Journalists at Willow Springs Raceway, Lancaster, CA, Mercedes Benz Regional Marketing executive, Bob Wills stated:

Mercedes Benz sales are up 16% over last year and should peak at 85,000 units. MB has 8% of the luxury car market, is getting away from the stodgy senior citizen image it seems to have notched for itself, and will concentrate on fun and safety. New products abound. The E-420 hot rod four-door was introduced, and we'll have a test next week. Also coming in 1997 is the SLK roadster with retractable metal top at $40,000; an all new coupe; an AAV Sport Utility called the M-class is being built in Alabama; plus an E-Class station wagon for a niche audience; and, in 1998, an A class electric vehicle. Basics on the all-new E-420 are a 275 HP V-8 engine which propels the sedan from 0-60MPH in 6.7 sec and has a 5 speed automatic, 17 inch wheels, wing, air damn in front, gets 25MPG, city and is priced at $49,900.

Bill Maloney -- The Auto Channel