Mercedes Benz 500
1,493 registered in New Zealand · 1981–2022 · 93% from Germany
The Mercedes Benz 500 is a recognisable name on New Zealand roads, with 1,493 registered across model years 1981 to 2022. It averages 13 L/100km in fuel consumption and produces an average of 227 kW. Most are petrol-powered saloons with a 5.0L engine.
Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the 500.
Fuel Types
Mercedes Benz 500 fuel type breakdown: PETROL 100%, PETROL HYBRID 0%, DIESEL 0%.
Fleet Age Profile
How many Mercedes Benz 500 vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.
Mercedes Benz 500 fleet age profile: 2006: 210, 2007: 81, 2008: 14, 2010: 17, 2014: 21.
Drivetrain
Transmission
Mercedes Benz 500 transmissions: 5-GEAR AUTO 0%, 7-GEAR AUTO 0%.
Engine Size
Mercedes Benz 500 engine sizes: 5.0L 32%, 5.0L 18%, 5.0L 14%, 5.0L 7%, 5.0L 6%.
Imported From
Mercedes Benz 500 imported from: Germany 93%, Japan 3%, Not Known 2%, United Kingdom 1%, Other 0%.
When They Arrived in NZ
When Mercedes Benz 500 vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.
Mercedes Benz 500 NZ arrival timeline: 2022: 20, 2023: 3, 2024: 8, 2025: 1, 2026: 1.
Estimated Running Costs
Select a model year to estimate fuel costs for that specific Mercedes Benz 500.
Colours
Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.
Where They Are in NZ
Mercedes Benz 500 regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 508, CHRISTCHURCH: 145, HAMILTON: 64, TAURANGA: 48, WHANGAREI: 34.
Body Types
Similar Cars
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Mercedes Benz 500 are there in New Zealand?
There are 1,493 Mercedes Benz 500 vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 1981 to 2022.
How much does it cost to run a Mercedes Benz 500?
Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Mercedes Benz 500 averages 13 L/100km. At current fuel prices ($3.41/L), that works out to roughly $102 per week or $5,320 per year in fuel, assuming 12,000 km of annual driving. Actual costs vary by model year, driving conditions, and fuel type.
What body type is the Mercedes Benz 500?
The Mercedes Benz 500 is primarily classified as a saloon in the NZTA fleet register. It is also available in other body configurations: convertible, sports car, station wagon. The most common fuel type is petrol.
Are Mercedes Benz 500 cars imported or NZ-new?
93% of Mercedes Benz 500 vehicles in New Zealand originated from Germany. The majority arrived as used imports, which is typical for this model. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.