Conceived in Japan, find out why this custom W124 with some outlandish mods and a Porsche connection, means business
As a fan of both Mercedes and Porsche, I can’t help but feel a bit giddy when talking about this 1992 Mercedes-Benz 500E (W124). I’m particularly fond of this era of Mercs for their tank-like build quality and frankly, nothing resonates better with that Yakuza mafia look that you get a boxy Mercedes from the 1990s. When it comes to the over-engineered W124, you’ve got the luxury and sophistication of Mercedes combined with the raw performance chops of Porsche. This particular car is a highly modified example that showcases the craftsmanship of Auto Fashion Factory (AFF), a premier automotive tuning shop based in Tokyo, Japan.
Overview of the 1992 Mercedes-Benz 500E by Auto Fashion Factory (AFF)
Let’s dive into the backstory. The innovative 500E was born out of a time when Mercedes wanted to pump some serious adrenaline into its E-Class lineup back in the early ‘90s. Enter Porsche, who was in dire need of some work to keep the lights on. Don’t forget that Porsche is also a design and engineering consultant. The two German brands teamed up, and what emerged was a high-performance sedan that would make any car enthusiast go weak in the knees. Jason Camissa went as far as to say that it was the perfect sedan. I still find it hard to believe that the W124 once rolled off the same production line at the Zuffenhausen plant, in Stuttgart that continues to build 911s to this day.
The Mercedes 500E is renowned for its timeless styling and robust performance. This particular example model reimagined by Auto Fashion Factory (AFF), finished in a captivating Bortnite Metallic purple, is a standout ride that captures attention with its shimmering exterior and wide fenders. It comes equipped with black 19-inch AFF4 forged wheels with RS center caps Sport classic embossed, and red brake calipers with Porsche script. Other modifications include AMG Version III body components, ensuring that this car not only performs exceptionally but also looks the business.
Stepping inside, this bespoke 500E reveals a cabin that seems to exude luxury, class, and meticulous attention to detail. The interior features custom hand-stitched Buffalo hide upholstery, complemented by red stitching that rivals high-end designer handbags. The bespoke Recaro seats provide both comfort and support, showing no signs of wear. Additional highlights include the exquisite Tiger Birds Eye wood trim and a leather-wrapped dashboard designed for functionality. The custom Mercedes is equipped with a factory-style upgraded sound system and dual-zone climate control, ensuring a comfortable ride. A power sunroof adds to the overall luxury experience, making this car a joy to drive or ride in.
Modifications That Set The AFF Apart From Other 500Es
Under the hood, a 5.0-liter M119 V8 engine delivers impressive performance
Under the hood, lurks a 5.0-liter M119 V8 Le-Mans winning engine sending power to the rear wheels. While we don’t have the exact figures, the stock mill put out around 322 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. But the car you’re looking at here is far from stock. Performance is enhanced by a Kera carbon airbox and a header-back AFF exhaust system. This combination not only boosts power but also produces an intoxicating exhaust note that adds to the driving experience. The car’s handling is further improved with an Öhlins suspension system, providing a tight and responsive ride. With upgraded Brembo brakes and adjustable sway bars, this car is capable of tackling both daily commutes and spirited drives on the track.