Gungaslow

i was just wondering if anyone knows if the c450 AMG adaptive sport suspension still uses airmatic? i have read reviews about the older c400 had airmatic option and when in comfort mode the ride was very plush. I know the older model could vary it ride hight and even had a button to do so. I know that button no longer exists on the c450. does the c450 vary automaticaly or not at all? My c450 doesn't seem to change much from sport+ to comfort modes..it feels pretty stiff no mater what suspension mode i select. I also have the optional 19" wheels and have already swapped out the run flats with continental DWS06 because I live in New England ...has anyone driven both the c400 and c450 back to back and can tell a difference in comfort mode?

BlackC400

I had a C400 before and I can confirm that the "comfort mode" in the C450 is indeed a harsher ride. It's a noticeable difference, but love everything else about it

supersky3k

The c450 uses conventional sport tuned steel suspension comparing to the c400 airmatic suspension is not as comfortable and no height adjustment. The ride in c450 is more stiff.

Gungaslow

Thanks for the information.. Was the c400 with airmatic a lot softer than the c450? How would you rate comfort mode in the c450 compared to sport or sport+ in the c400? Is comfort mode in c450 equal to any mode in the c400 with airmatic?

zak42

I also found that the ride in the C450 is harsher on the 19s than on the standard 18" wheels.

Vipershade

The C450 and C63/C63S use the 488 AMG Adaptive Suspension and the C400 uses the 486 Sport Suspension.

(Chart shows the suspension page from the AMG Sport features adopted from the AMG Performance Cars (ie. C63)):

Gungaslow

Do you think aftermarket companies may come out with softer spring rates for this type of car even though the c450 is meant to be sprung stiffer on purpose by AMG? Not to lower it, but make it a softer ride?

z28lt1

While you never know, I can't imagine there being a big market for people who paid extra money for an AMG tuned suspension to provide great handling only to lessen the handling capabilities in favor of a softer ride. Doesn't seem like a profitable business plan. While it may be firmer than a C400 with Air, I'm surprised anyone finds the C450's ride in comfort mode so stiff they want to change it. That said, I'm not one for soft cars, so while I am surprised, I recognize that is a valid desire/opinion.

Gungaslow

I actually like the ride in comfort mode but my wife finds I stiff.. I was just thinking if softer springs could make comfort mode really soft but sport mode would be equal to comfort mode now.. Then sport+ would be equal to sport.. So in essence drop each level down a notch cause sport+ is really only for the track

AMG_BUFF

I guess I am not sure why one would select a vehicle with an AMG-tuned suspension and then want to put softer springs on it. The suspension on the C450 was set up very specifically for better handling than the standard C class (even using a unique steering knuckle design). Also, if a smoother ride was desired, the standard 18" wheels/tires would have been the better choice.
Just a guess, but going for a softer ride on the C450 would entail more than just new springs. The entire suspension system may need to be revamped. It could be done, but it is going to cost $$$. Maybe a nice E400 4Matic would do the trick?