dan212

I am getting a CLK550 to replace my CLK320. It should really rock. (I was originally thinking of an 05 AMG, but I couldn't find one that matched my needs and the 550 engine is actually more powerful).. The suspension on the 320 was also way too soft and sloppy for my taste. The suspension on the 500 feels much better than the 320 - not to mention the brakes.. But what about the sports suspension option?? I would have to wait 6-8 weeks more because none of dealer customers ever buy it - so it is a special order. They didn't even have a model with the sports suspension option for me to try.

I am curious if anyone has ordered the sports suspension option before and if so how much of a difference it really made. Stiffer, lower springs and stiffer shocks. How good is it??

jangy

It is a very noticable difference, but nothing you can't add aftermarket just as clean. My sister's car has it and it was very cheap. Main difference is the springs. You can get all that after and better even.

dan212

Thanks - this was helpful..

I think I'll get it then. I'd rather keep the suspension under warranty as much as possible. The option doesn't indicate that a thicker swaybar is also added. Too bad on that, but you are right - its pretty cheap. I can add a thicker aftermarket swaybar without making an invasive change to the suspension (as I would by changing springs).

Kind of puzzled why more people don't add the option.

- dan -

Kar don

it rides slightly harder and lowers the car by like 10mm-15mm.

dan212

I finally got my CLK550. It took forever because few dealers in my area order with the sports suspension. It really does make a difference. The car does ride more firmly but also no longer has the floaty feeling that I had with my CLK320. My girlfriend who could care less about being able to slide around a curve at maximum speed and other foolishness said that the ride was more secure and and the handling better from her perspective in the passenger seat.

I am just about finished breaking the engine in. I've accidentally goosed the engine once or twice but I've otherwise been a good boy. That said the same girlfriend noticed the unlabored increase in power as well. Go figure.. 140HP of power and substantially more torque is noticable

Imagine when I can really stomp on the gas.

Holson

Congrats!

Any pictures and video+sound of the exhaust maybe?

blk350c

I got the factory sport suspension option on my 350 and still lowered it with H&R springs. It still was soft and it was not much lower than the non-"sport" suspension. I'd go aftermarket if I were you- no doubt!!

JLP

The motor is already broken-in its the tranny and diff that need a little break-in time. Go ahead and goose it , just roll into it on a roll.