Transmissions
The 1996 model W210 E-Class carried over the 4-speed automatic transmission from the previous W124 generation E-Class. In 1997, Mercedes installed in the E-class its electronically-controlled model 722.6 5-speed automatic transmission that first saw duty in 1996 in the V8-powered W140 S-class models. The 722.6 transmission is now used in a number of Daimler-Chrysler vehicles. The 5-speed transmission was marketed as "sealed for life" however Mercedes dealers now recommend changing the fluid at regular intervals. A 5-speed manual is also available, although during facelift in 2000, it was replaced by a 6-speed manual.
Read more about this topic: Mercedes-Benz W210