The Mercedes-Benz E500 was a variant of the W211 Sedan that debuted for the 2003 model year. The E 500 was powered by Mercedes' M113.967 engine, which was a 5.0L V8 that had an output of 306hp and 339 lb ft of torque. From the beginning of production, a 5 speed automatic transmission was used, but from the 2004 model year onwards, a 7 speed automatic was used. An all wheel drive version of the E500 was also available and was known as the W211 Mercedes-Benz E500 4MATIC. From the 2007 model year, the E500 received Mercedes' new M273.960 engine, which was a 388hp 5.5L V8. Due to the introduction of this new powerplant, Mercedes changed the name of the E500 to E550 for North American markets, although the E500 name was unchanged for all other markets. Production of the W211 Mercedes-Benz E500 lasted until 2009.