awiner

I know VictoryRoad will be interested in this. I finally got an answer back from AMG in Germany about the change in tire sizes for 2003. 2001-2002 AMG's had a 275 rear tire. The 2003 has a 265 rear tire. The reason ? AMG was not too happy with the amount of understeer that the 275's caused. Therefore, going to a 265 reduced the amount of understeer to more their liking.

Kar don

Wow. I was wondering why they couldn't just over come this problem with sway bars.... but now that I remember the CL55 has none

victoryroad

Thanks Adam. The explanation squares with the improved handling characteristics vs. my 02 CL500 Sport with the 275's on 9.5" rims. Turn in is better in the 03 CL55, but the CL500 Sport is not tuned the same as the 55 versions of the 01 and 02. It is also about 200 lbs lighter than the 03 CL55. Have you noticed the difference between your new CL and your 01 CL55?

awiner

The ride is definetly more stiff on the 2003. As far as understeer/oversteer they seem about the same to me, however, I haven't really 'tracked' the car enough to get a consistant feel.