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Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedans

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Comments

  • carguy911carguy911 Member Posts: 6
    Hey everyone!


    I'm new to this forum, and very excited to be a part of it! (I have a 2000 E320 Obs. Black/Chrcl.)


    I am also really excited about the new 2003 E-Class that was unveiled this past week in Europe. I would be more than willing to trade my 2000 in for a new one. I found a useful link in case any of you are interested in seeing the new one:

    Great Photos too:


    http://www.news24.co.za/News24/Wheels24/0,3999,2-15_1131432,00.html


    I'd like to here some of your comments about the new E-Class, it would be interesting to hear what others think about the design etc. To the best of my knowledge prices haven't been released, but I assume that they should be around the same as the current one (otherwise Mercedes will have prices themselves out of the mid-size luxury sedan market).


    Thanks!

  • merckxmerckx Member Posts: 565
    Nice,but what I find really exciting is the availibity of the large Panoramic sunroof on the new sedan. This should be great sedately cruising...
  • valueguyvalueguy Member Posts: 208
    If I go ahead and have my instrument cluster replaced will this affect my car's resale value?

    Some states require a sticker on the door "TMU"
    (true mileage unknown) if the original odometer has been tampered with or replaced. This would have a significant impact on my car's value.
    It only takes a few seconds to adjust the clock every month.

    Those of you who had your clock replaced please give me your input. Thanks.
  • valueguyvalueguy Member Posts: 208
    What is the point of a panoramic roof that has the standard size sunroof opening?

    Since I am the driver how does this new roof benefit me? Also, how will this new black roof look with all the colors? If you new 'E' is black the roof will look good; otherwise the new E looks better without the roof (IMHO).

    The cooling benefits will be negated by the extra heat and sunlight allowed into the car especially in hot climates.
  • john01john01 Member Posts: 246
    I received a catalog for the new E from our sales person. As far as I can tell, the Panoramic roof turns most of the roof into glass, or glass-looking. From what I understand, there are features that allow the car to block out the sunlight and heat.

    The top will look like a black glass, much like the NS-X targa.

    Potential first-year kinks aside, the car looks great, and wish it was available 3 months ago. We ordered BMW 530 but it would have been a very difficult decision had it been out 3 months ago.
  • williamm53williamm53 Member Posts: 8
    I'm looking at a 1995 E320 with 37,000 miles. According to JD Power surveys the mechanical reliability for the '95 'E' class is only average (there's no separate data for the 3 engine sizes). I'd appreciate any input i.e. repair experiences, common problems etc. to help with my decision. I'm hoping to buy a car that will give me 10 years of fairly trouble free service. Would you recommend the E320 or am I likely to run into a lot of costly repairs? - Thanks
  • bigrobnhbigrobnh Member Posts: 114
    Hey folks,
    I'm unsuccessfully attempting to mount a rear facing child safety seat. Owners manual clearly states follow the seat manufactures instructions. Seat manufacture clearly states that the safest spot is rear center. Unfortunately rear center of the E Class has two rigidly affixed seat belt buckles for the outboard passengers that prevent the proper seating of the base of the seat (even if I could get it in above the buckles, the rear seat occupants would be out of luck). Called 1-800-FOR-MERC who knew about it but said to contact the service dept. Contacted the service dept who understands the issue but knows of no work around. Left off with "come in and see the shop forman and he'll see what can be done".

    Has anybody else used a rear facing child safety seat in their E class (mine is 2001). The thought of using the outboard position (and possibly getting the side airbag disabled) makes me a little unhappy.

    Thanks,
    BigRob.
  • jason64jason64 Member Posts: 50
    My 01 E320 is due for A service, based on the service booklet, The only parts get replaced is the engine oil/filter and dust filter. Air filter is recommended be replaced at 4yr/50k miles. I think this is way too far apart between replacement. Does any have any opinion on this issue? How much is it to replace it? I have the same concern about the tire rotation.
  • smd522smd522 Member Posts: 5
    William M -

    I would highly recommend the 95 E320. I did exactly the same thing that you are looking to do. I purchased a 94 E320 with 35,000 miles about a year and 1/2 ago. I have since put about 15,000 miles on it and couldn't be happier. The car was Starmarked and has been absolutely trouble free. The only thing that I have done is put a set of front brakes in. This 8 year old car is more solid than my new Saab. You will not go wrong with this series of MB, it is the last of the "overbuilt" ones. Good Luck!
  • pcasinopcasino Member Posts: 14
    Jean7of9 and MBdriver,

    Thanks for your comments on the mudguards. I will definitely go back to my dealer's service person and see what he has to say. I did try the MBUSA site but for some strange reason, the picture of the mudguard was not dowloading so I wasn't even sure if one actually existed.

    BigRob,

    Yes, I have installed a rear facing child seat in the center of my rear seat and did not encounter any problems whatsoever in strapping the child seat in. In fact, I am still trying to figure out what you mean by "rigidly affixed seat belt buckles" I have a 1998 E320 wagon and my car's seat belt buckles (all three of them) are not rigidly affixed. Maybe wagons and sedans are different or maybe MB changed the buckles since 1998. Your guess is as good as mine.

    About '03 models, I am certainly looking forward to this newer E-class series but I am wondering when they will come out with the wagons. My dream is an E430 4matic wagon. Unfortunately they never existed because the 4matics only came with the E320 and sadly, they discontinued the E430 wagon line in 2002.

    Still waiting...
  • bigrobnhbigrobnh Member Posts: 114
    Thanks for the info! Very interesting. In my 2001 sedan the buckles for the outboard rear passengers are rigid as if they're attached to small metal rods (similar to how the two front buckles are). I can't push them down into the seat and I can't move them out of the way (in either case that would prevent them from being used by rear passengers). The buckle for the middle passenger is actually attached loosely with a tether made of the same material as the belts themselves. All 3 rear buckles in my wifes subaru use this tether approach so I was able to fit in in the middle of this smaller car w/no problems and still be able to use the outboard belts.

    I can see why they're done this way...it makes it a one-hand operation to buckle your belt. Right now, though, it's really limiting my ability to properly use an important safety system.

    Thanks,
    BigRob.
  • rab5rab5 Member Posts: 12
    Filter is same part number as is for E430. So our E320 has an oversized filter. Take it out every 10,000 miles and vaccum dust/etc off it and inside filter mounting box. Should be fine.
  • vicfavicfa Member Posts: 2
    I was a big fan of MB before leasing a 2000 E430 4Matic. First of all, the car has a very flat interior styling and, after little over one year, I am already bored to death. Fully loaded the car lacks any kind of basic gadgetry: you have to turn on the lights yourself!, the remote works only from a few inches away and the driver's seat memory cannot be recall while unlocking the car (so that it defeats the purpose), just to mention a few...My car had to make several trips to the service place (fog lights working only at times, defective oil sensor, trip computer leds misreading temp., squeaky steering wheel). The only thing that keeps the promise is the powerful V8, but still...you can have a faster car (i.e. BMW 330ix) for about 20K less. I hope the new E will create new standards for MB entry-luxo sedans. In the meantime, I am going to put a deposit on either a BMW 745iL or a Porsche Carrera 4 Convertible (I need some gadgetry or thrill after so much boredom). I am not even considering the S series because itI would appreciate any input (agreable-disagreable).

    FAUSTOMD
  • mbdrivermbdriver Member Posts: 426
    Seems to me you have your priorities wrong. You say you're bored with the interior styling of you E-Class. Suggest you pay more attention to what's OUTSIDE the car. And you claim the car is lacking in gadgetry -- did you buy the car to be entertained by gimmicks (that quickly lose their uniqueness)? Or do you value superb handing, road feel/feedback and safety in your automobile? BTW, what's so difficult about turning your headlights on and off or pressing a memory button on the inside car door after you've opened it? If you need and value gadgetry, why not try computer games?

    Seriously, the strength of MB automobiles is in their handling, drivability, "road feel," solid construction and innovations involving safety. Many Japanese and American cars are full of gimmicks that add little or nothing to basic driving performance. After a month or two of Mercedes ownership, most people forget about the lack of the "conveniences" you mention. I did, after trading a 1998 Cadillac STS (that was loaded with gadgetry) for my 2000 E320. And one of the most pleasant surprises of that "upgrade" was the 21+ gallon fuel tank on my MB that allowed me to travel more than 200 miles or so and NOT begin searching for another gas station.

    More serious, however, is your experience with minor flaws in your Mercedes. Most MB owners aren't that troubled with malfunctions that require frequent visits to the dealer. I would guess that your unfortunate experience isn't typical.

    You may be misinformed about the E-Class being an "entry-luxo sedan." I think you'll find that the industry considers entry-luxo sedans to be the MB C-Class, BMW 3-Series, Lexus ES-300, Infinity I-35 and similar cars priced significantly lower than the E-Class.

    In any case, not everyone will be happy owning and driving a Mercedes. If you find the BMW 745iL or Porsche Carrera 4 Convertible more suited to your tastes, so be it. Good luck. And let us know what you like and dislike in the new car (neither of which can be compared objectively to a Mercedes-Benz E-Class).
  • acco20acco20 Member Posts: 211
    Test drive the Lexus LS430. Everything you are looking for and much much more.INHO.
  • albert123albert123 Member Posts: 71
    mbdriver, agree with your post on all but one -- reliability. Minor flaws with cars at this price are unacceptable. MB should further improve the build quality until it reaches #1.

    vicfa, the good news is the competition has created many good choices(BMW, Lexus...). But I still like MB's solid drive experience.
  • dfocendodfocendo Member Posts: 1
    I would like some experienced opinions, if possible, about the relative drivability of the MB E430 AWD compared to the lexus LS430 in snowy and icy conditions..we live in the east [PA] and I don't want to have to adjust my driving habits based on a weather report..I am leaning towards the Lexus but the rear wheel drive is a concern..
  • EdsotoEdsoto Member Posts: 42
    I just hope that MB keeps the tradition of quality cars. As a soon to be owner of a 2001 or 2002 E-320, it would be nice to know that they have not 'sold out' quality for quantity.

    But I do wonder why they can't include a basic CD player. :)
  • bud24bud24 Member Posts: 8
    Check out this link:http://www.caranddriver.com/xp/Caranddriver/features/1999/May/199905_feature_whatp.xml?keywords=winter

    I don't know about the LS430 but my E430AWD with LM22 Blizzaks is great in the snow.
  • juresjures Member Posts: 42
    i had an e320 4matic and presently have an e430 4matic. the stock tires on the e320 were conti touring, i had no problem with any snow/ice conditions. the stock tires on the e430 are pirelli sp7000, being wider and lower did not give the same snow/ice performance. i bought dedicated blizzaks and wheels. this improved snow/ice performance dramatically. imho, 4 matic with any tire setup is superior to rear wheel drive. roger
  • jenb3jenb3 Member Posts: 4
    Bigrobnh - I understand your frustration! The reality is that the carseat manufacturers tell you to "talk to your car dealer", but the dealers know NOTHING. Everyone just passes the buck (and I'm going to do a bit of the same :)...

    While we have a 2001 E430 now, when I was using a rearfacing carseat it was in my 96 volvo 850 and then in my 2000 Chrysler T&C. The first time, my Volvo dealer didn't even know what a tether strap was, let alone how to help with a rear facing one. And this is supposed to be the quintessential family safety-first car!

    Since I don't have personal experience with the MB E, I would suggest the following:
    #1 - If there is a good baby/children's store near you (NOT a big chain like Babysrus...) they may be able to help you. I'm in San Francsico, and there are a couple stores here who will help you install the seat properly. This is also a reason why I have never bought my seats online - I prefer to go to a knowledgable store and try them out in my car before I buy.
    #2 - Your local police my be able to help. Some police depts. have staff who specialize in helping install seats.
    #3 - Go to carseat.org! This is a great site by SafetyBeltSafe. The local chapter was the one who helped my with my install issues. They were very knowlegable about how different seats go in different cars. In my opinion they are THE standard for current info. on car seats.

    BTW, carseat.org seems to indicate that side-airbags are not a big problem because they are much less powerful than the front bags. And if you do end up putting the seat on the side, one benefit is that it is MUCH easier on your back to get the baby in and out! And remember that a well-fitting seat on the side is still safer than an ill-fitting seat in the middle.

    Hope this is helpful. Sorry to be so verbose - in case you can't tell I'm a bit of a nut for a properly installed car seat! Good luck.
  • bigrobnhbigrobnh Member Posts: 114
    This is great info, thanks for all the good advice. I currently have it in the rear passenger seat and am procrastinating on the 1+ hour round trip to the MB dealer to speak to the forman (whom I predict will have no solution). Our little guy is due in 7 days so I'm running out of time.

    I used Consumer Reports as my resource and purchased the top rated one. The rear facing seats with the separate, permenantly installed base seemed to be ubiquitous. You could have knocked me over with a feather when I went to the garage and it wouldn't go into the center spot (you WOULDN'T have wanted to hear the language either!:-))

    Now I'm off to carseat.org.
  • rbrenton88rbrenton88 Member Posts: 186
    Has anyone had any experience with an E430 Sport running on 17" Goodyear F1 tires in snow? I'm assuming they are going to be horrible, but I hope someone tells me they're not that bad.
  • jenb3jenb3 Member Posts: 4
    Good luck... On closer inspection of carseat.org I found their info to be good but fairly generic. What you need is a real person to talk to about your specific car - hopefully they will answer email promptly and can refer you to someone "live". There are all kinds of tricks (e.g., rolling up a towel under the base of your seat to get the angle right) that I didn't see on the site.

    If you get desperate, email me at brahmcj@bigfoot.com and I can try to help you a bit more. I'm not an expert but I've done it a few times!

    Regardless, it's good that you're doing it well before the baby is due. Even with practice it takes a while - you're smart not to wait until midnight when your wife goes into labor (like some friends of ours did!!).
  • jenb3jenb3 Member Posts: 4
    You could also try windsorpeak.com and go to "baby bargains". It's the website of the authors of The Baby Bargain book. There is tons of helpful stuff on this site (and in their book). It looks like there are some bulletin boards that you could check out for car seat install info. In the past I have even emailed the Fields (the authors) themselves and gotten a prompt response.

    With a new bambino coming, you should check their site regardless of the seat situation...
  • dkatlantadkatlanta Member Posts: 23
    A few months ago, based on recommendations here, I upgraded the shocks on my E320 (my 2000) to Bilsteins, with very good results. I've held off on the wheel/tire upgrade, reluctant to discard tires with plenty of tread on them. Now the tires are wearing thin. Every time I talk to a tire store around here, though, they warn me away from the Yokohama AVS db tires that folks have raved about here. Instead, they recommend Michelin Pilot Sports, saying they'll be nearly as quiet as the Yokohamas, much more quiet than my current XGT's, and both sportier and better made than the Yokohamas. They also say the Yokohamas start out quiet but don't stay that way. What's the truth? Has anyone experienced the Yokohamas over 10-20,000 miles? Has anyone tried the Pilot Sports? Both get mostly raves at Tirerack.com, but there is the occasional dissatisfied Yokohama owner.
  • rolandsrolands Member Posts: 14
    go with the Pilot Sports. I have them on my E320 and they handle great. Quiet too. Be ready to pay alot more for them than the yoko's.
  • mbdrivermbdriver Member Posts: 426
    dkatlanta - Has it occurred to you that the Michelin Pilot Sports are EXPENSIVE and therefore the store profit on them probably is considerably higher than the Yokos ($216 vs $144 Tirerack price)? My local independent MB repair shop owner also recommended the Michelins over Yokos, particularly because Yokos get noisier as they age. However, he admitted that he wasn't familiar with the then-new Yoko AVS dBs (designed specifically to be silent running tires).

    I have about 5000 miles on the upgraded 17" wheels and Yoko AVS dBs on my 2000 E320 and could not be more pleased. I seriously doubt they'll get noisier as they wear, and so far I'm convinced I made the right decision. Compared with the original 16" Continentals, the car handles and rides extremely well, with absolutely minimum tire noise. I believe when I hit 10,000-20,000 miles and beyond, I'll be just as pleased.

    BTW, Tirerack customer ratings have the Yokos slightly higher in dry traction and "noise comfort." The Pilot Sports are rated quite higher in snow traction and marginally higher in wear and ride comfort. Unless there are several posts soon from dissatisfied long-term Yoko owners citing their own bad experiences (I doubt there will be), I'd guess you won't go wrong with either choice. But as Rolands said, be prepared to lighten your wallet if you choose the Michelins.
  • ewoqewoq Member Posts: 37
    The amazing power of advertising and profit margins. It's unlikely that the Pilot Sports is superior to the AVS dB's and even if they are marginally 'superior'which I doubt, you can purchase almost two sets of AVS dB's for the same price. You can't lose trying out a set of AVS dB's.
  • lhcleunglhcleung Member Posts: 24
    Hi, everyone. I am a first time buyer of a 2001 E320 in September last year. Oh boy, I just love driving the car! It gives me such solid, steady feeling I never have from my other cars. I have a Toyota Campry and a Toyota Celica; the latter is quite sporty while the Campry is very quiet and smooth. But I never get the same feelings I have with the E320 - smooth, quiet and yet powerful. In addition,it gives you such a solid and stately feeling, it makes you feel so safe and proud to be driving it. So, I just 'baby it' a lot and as a result, I am thinking every way to protect it. That is why I am thinking of a 'Auto Tracking System' to protect the car in case it
    is stolen. I have never thought of the Tele-Aid when I first bought the car, but now I just can't get it even I want to. So please share
    with me your advice and comments especially your experience regarding such system, I would truly appreciate it. I have noticed quite a few posts in the past on the this board indicating comments that are not quite in favor of the system and in fact some even went as far as wanting to disconnect it. I personally feel it has its own merit and value; but whether it is worth so much - close to $250/year, I don't know. Please, may I have some comments?
    Louis
  • klauskklausk Member Posts: 14
    I have a 2000 E430. I like the car. In fall of 2001 I had the window regulator go out (window was down) while I was in Chama, NM. I used Tele Aid to contact MB and told them that I was on my way to Durango, CO. They said they would call me back to set up a point where to meet me. By the time I got to Durango, no call from MB. I called again. They asked me all kinds of questions about my whereabouts, only to tell me that they would not give me service.
    When I got home, I called Tele Aid and informed them about my dissatisfaction, also asked them not to renew, specifically asked them not to charge my credit card. Well, they still charged my credit card $257.40 for renewal of Tele Aid. I called again to receive a credit to my credit card, which they promised to do, however a credit of only $240.00 showed up on my credit card. I called again and the answer was, we cannot credit the fee and the tax at the same time. I did not expect that kind of B/S from MB. I am thoroughly dissatisfied with Tele Aid and MB. I do like my dealer and fortunately he sells BMW, well BMW here I come.
  • roadsterfeverroadsterfever Member Posts: 1
    I have been following the E-Class Town Hall for some time and have enjoyed and been informed by the dialog that has occurred here. At the moment I enjoy driving 3 Mercedes Benz: 2001 E320 Sport, 1999 CLK320 Cabriolet, 1997 C280.

    My question has to do with the addition of the Timeport phone with voice. Does anyone know of a dealership in SoCal that will offer any sort of discount on the system installed. I have contacted two dealerships with marginal luck. One will sell the parts wholesale but will not install. The Other wants $2,400 for the complete installation. Wow!!

    Also, has anyone heard of adding Command? It can be done on the ML320, but I have not heard of this being added to the E-Class.

    Thanks in advance for any help that can be provided
  • john01john01 Member Posts: 246
  • valueguyvalueguy Member Posts: 208
    I damaged one of my "sport package" rims today.
    I need to find a replacement. First, I need to find the correct technical description of my wheel. Do I have an AMG 5 spoke wheel? If so, what is the part number? Does anyone know where I can locate the CORRECT rim at a discount?

    My dealer wants $463.00 for the part not including changing the tire and balancing.
  • dunninladunninla Member Posts: 33
    Well, here's my TeleAid poor service story. I too have been participating in this forum since before I bought my 2001 E320 in Nov. 2000. Love the car, especially after upgrading to 17" AMG +Dunlop SP 8000 tires, and then six months later to Eibach springs, as they use in the AMG.

    Now, for TeleAid. I had decided not to renew, about the same time I got three different letters, two weeks apart, warning me that the credit card that I had registered with TeleAid was no longer valid--- Great, I said, saves me a call to have to cancel this worthless service.

    Two months later, my wife asked me about a $250ish charge on the card...I panicked for obvious reasons, then calmed down and realized it was just TeleAid. I was furious that after telling me I was unrenewable they found a way to do it. I called them up and was promptly credited back to the card.

    Then in mid January, 4 weeks after the phone call and cancellation, I am driving my daughter home from gymanastics (she is 8), and the radio was commondeered-- scared the SH&$T out of me and her, and hear a message "This is blah blah testing your TeleAid service,,,something like that" This lasted for ten minutes. I could not gain operation of my radio, and pushing the SOS TeleAid button to tell them to knock it off did no good.

    They're lucky they did not cause me to panic and have an accident. Bastards.
  • rbrenton88rbrenton88 Member Posts: 186
    Have you checked Tirerack for a replacement rim? I've seen many 5-spoke rims for around $200 there. There are also a good number of AMG wheels on ebay, though tougher to find a single, I'd imagine.
    Not sure about the right part # though.
  • rramonrramon Member Posts: 5
    When I turned on the heater in my E320, not only did the AUTO indicator light come on , but also the EC button light. I cannot cancel the EC button. In other words, I cannot get the heater out of the Economy Mode. Any suggestions?
  • paulchiupaulchiu Member Posts: 378
    Any pictures yet of the new E Class?
  • sequoiasaurussequoiasaurus Member Posts: 240
    can be found here:

    http://www.imagestation.com/album/pictures.html?id=4292098389&show_all=1&start=1


    These are photos that I've collected around the web and put in just one location for easier locating when posting in discussions.

  • paulchiupaulchiu Member Posts: 378
    Thanks S !

    The new E looks a lot like my 2001 S500 than the old E. I especially like the AMG equipped version! Very sleek!
  • valueguyvalueguy Member Posts: 208
    My '00E430 needs new tires. I have 14,300 miles on the factory Continental tires.

    I am leaning towards Yokahoma or Bridgestone based upon Tirerack.com's rec. Does anyone have personal experience with a 17" replacement tire?

    I do not need all season tires; I prefer a strict performance "Summer" tire that has good wet traction and will last 20,000 miles.

    Thanks.
  • mbdrivermbdriver Member Posts: 426
    valueguy - Go with the Yokohamas, specifically the Yoko AVS dB. I upgraded my 2000 E320 to 17" wheels with the Yokos and couldn't be more pleased. The handling, ride, and particularly the "noise comfort" improved dramatically. I have about 5,000 miles on them and they are running extremely well. I try to keep 34 to 36 psi all around, and the ride quality doesn't seem to be very harsh. I'd be surprised if you get less than 20,000 miles from them -- I'll be absolutely disappointed if I don't!

    BTW, I believe the Yoko AVS dBs are classified as an all-season ultra-high performance tire. The wet traction was rated high by consumers on Tirerack.com. Let us know what you decide.
  • valueguyvalueguy Member Posts: 208
    I narrowed my decision to three tires based on wet traction, quietness, and tread life:

    1. Dunlop Sport 9000
    2. Michelin Pilot Sport
    3. Yokohama AVS DB

    Price is not my main concern as tirerack.com list the Michelin for $193, the Dunlop for $153 and the Yoko is 144. Since snow is not an issue for me I think I will go with the Dunlop 9000. The Yoko is the "value" buy because it beats the Dunlop in every category except one: Looks

    I like the aggressive look of the Dunlop and Michelin which are "Max" tires. But, the Dunlop has a better wear rating compared to the Michelin.
    The Yoko has the BEST wear rating.

    All of the above tires are better than my old stock Continental Conti Sports.
  • livetodrivelivetodrive Member Posts: 104
    If snow performance is a factor how do the tires stack up?
  • valueguyvalueguy Member Posts: 208
    The above tires are all terrible in the snow.
    The Yoko is the only one that has any traction at all in snow. I must say that for an all around tire including light snow the Yoko is the one to purchase- Yoko AVS DB. A great tire at a great price.

    But, if you want the all out "Max" summer tire then the Bridgestone S-03 or Michelin Pilot Sport is the best choice. I want a tire that will last 15,000 miles, look "aggressive", and behave well in the Florida rain. The Yoko is a better overall choice except the Dunlop will look better
    on my Sport rim.
  • jsalemijsalemi Member Posts: 17
    We're about to buy a 2002 E320, and I've got two questions about the CD changer:

    1) Is it easy to install aftermarket? I've seen the same model MB installs advertised on the web for about 1/3 of the price MB charges.

    2) How about extra CD cartridges? I've not seen them advertised anywhere. Are they available from MB?

    Thanks!
    ---joe
  • mbdrivermbdriver Member Posts: 426
    I need help. Can you explain how one 235/45-17 tire can look more "aggressive" than another? If I'm not mistaken, all you can see from the side view is about 2 inches of tire. The sport rim, I've been told, is what catches the eye -- in fact, the larger the wheel diameter, the more wheel is visible and the less tire. And wheels, especially sport wheels, are supposedly much more attractive than black tires.

    Please don't misinterpret what I'm asking. I bought the Yoko AVS dBs, and they would seem to look as aggressive as any other 235/45-17s. I went to Tirerack.com and looked at the Dunlop, Bridgestone , Michelin and Yoko. Minor differences in tread design. Then I looked at a silver E320, first with 17" 5-spoke AMG "sport wheels" and tires, and then with 17" Borbet Type E wheels and tires. No difference in the look of the tires that I could see..

    Am I missing something? Is it really worth extra money to buy tires that look aggressive? To each his own, of course, but you got my attention!
  • rbrenton88rbrenton88 Member Posts: 186
    The Eagle F1 tires I have don't look any different from the side view, but if the wheel is turned a bit, you see a very unique tread pattern. Like an aquatred on steroids.

    I think they are sharp, but I sure wouldn't base a repurchase decision just on that. At close to $300 a pop, I'd rather have longevity.
  • valueguyvalueguy Member Posts: 208
    MB-Driver, let me explain. First of all, the tires you purchased represent the best value for the money. But, the I like the look of the tread pattern on the 'Max' rated tires. Also, I need a pure Summer tire as snow is not a factor. Rain, however, is a real concern of mine as I tend to drive at high speeds even in wet weather. The Dunlop SP9000 is only a few bucks more than your Yoko and offers exceptional rain stability. The Dunlop 9000 has a wear rating of 280 vs. 320 for the Yoko; this means your Yoko will last longer. (Dunlop 9000 is $153 vs. Yoko $144 for a $9.00 net difference)

    As someone already pointed out you can see the tread at times and I like the look of a pure performance tire. I agree with your decision on a purely technical basis; however, when it comes to cars and car related items I factor in a little emotion as well.
This discussion has been closed.