Handling of E320CDI compared...
02-09-2006, 05:05 AM
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Handling of E320CDI compared...
How's Handling of E320CDI compare to other similar cars, say a BMW 3/5 series? I am looking to buy the E320CDI after owning a Infiniti G35 (excellent sporty handling), and want to see what I am giving up. I know the diesel adds some weight. I used to drive an '76 and '85 300D, but know that I can't compare how they drive/handle. I am hoping that opting for the 17'' wheels will help a great deal, and maybe some stiffer sway bars for cornering.
02-09-2006, 02:41 PM
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Originally Posted by oilbelcher
How's Handling of E320CDI compare to other similar cars, say a BMW 3/5 series? I am looking to buy the E320CDI after owning a Infiniti G35 (excellent sporty handling), and want to see what I am giving up. I know the diesel adds some weight. I used to drive an '76 and '85 300D, but know that I can't compare how they drive/handle. I am hoping that opting for the 17'' wheels will help a great deal, and maybe some stiffer sway bars for cornering.
The W211's are not sporty sedans, and if you want a sporty sedan buy a smaller RWD car. The E320 CDI handles very well for its size, but it will never feel small and nimble like the Infiniti. If you are going to be autocrossing I would suggest going for a sportier car. Safety, Ride, Fuel Economy, and Comfort are the main characteristics of the E320 CDI.
02-09-2006, 06:37 PM
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Can't easily test drive as I'm living in Switzerland for another year. I could test drive here, but much more difficult and I don't speak french (on Geneva side). I currently have a 2002 BMW 320 td diesel, amazing performance for a 2.0 liter. The BMW 3.0 liter is amazing -- what a turbo. I have already asked about bring it or another back to the US with me, but EPA wont' let it happen.
I know the E320 is not comparable to a true sport sedan like a 330i or G35, but I am hoping to get reasonably close, while I balance my desire for a more "livable" and refined car (the G35 had horrible wind noise, and cheap interior). Have to consider the larger size car as I now have a family to think about, and I have grown up with a diesel mechanic who own old merc diesels.
I will wait for the new V6 3.0 diesel with 7 speed trans which should satisfy straight line performance, and hoping 17"/18" wheels with maybe stiffer sways/springs will help on the handling.
I know the E320 is not comparable to a true sport sedan like a 330i or G35, but I am hoping to get reasonably close, while I balance my desire for a more "livable" and refined car (the G35 had horrible wind noise, and cheap interior). Have to consider the larger size car as I now have a family to think about, and I have grown up with a diesel mechanic who own old merc diesels.
I will wait for the new V6 3.0 diesel with 7 speed trans which should satisfy straight line performance, and hoping 17"/18" wheels with maybe stiffer sways/springs will help on the handling.
