I don't have 4matic and my car has a terrible traction problem in the snow! We have over 8 inches of snow and I can hardly get out of my neiborhood onto the plowed streets. If there is any type of incline in the road, forget it!

Maybe I'm just used to driving front wheel drive cars all these years and it's just standard for a rear wheel drive, but it's driving me crazy!

 

Yes, RWD does suck in the snow, but if you know how to control the car and how to start off, shouldn't be too much of a hassel.

I use my w202 daily, even in this crazy New England weather. I have my conti all seasons as well. It took me a while to get use to "launching" in the snow. Just gotta add the gas slowly and not jam it down when starting, then ya get no where :p

My rear is very light, I don't think the weight distribution is 50/50 or anywher near that for the w202s? But it goes in the snow, just takes a little longer to get to your destination with the car sliding, hehe.

 

Ive found the same situation in snow,but have driven in it since I was young.The best solution Ive found is what Ive done with the tires.The Turanza's were a solution for all weather conditions,but after this record snowfall in the East,Im going with Pirelli Snowsport 240's,which I will use on my OEM 17" 5 spokes.They are highly rated,and still have hi speed capabilities.
Ive picked up a set of Goodyear F1 Gs D3's for the other 3 seasons and will use them on my AT Rivas.

The only real solution is dedicated winter shoes,they really make a difference.

 

Right...Well just put some kitty litter in the trunk or something to give better weight distribution. The wheels will lay out, and give better traction from the extra weight.

Really need a truck for this kind of weather.

 

It's all about weight distribution and tires. The E-Class is pretty well balanced in general. Good all-seasons or dedicated snow tires make the car perform totally differently.

I was complaining last winter about the E in the snow. Changed to a pair of Continental ContiExtreme tires and bigger rims and I haven't had a problem since. Moderate throttle application is also key.

 

I agree completely with the consesus, tires make all the difference. I put a set of Goodyears on my E420 and it is now a bear in the snow. However, 8" of snow on an incline would be tough for even a 4WD.

 

Not many cars do very well in 8" of snow, Stay home for a while and give them time to clean the streets. The E, with snow tires will do about as well as any other RWD car, once they remove the bulk of the snow. Good Luck

 

You're right about the value. Sorry, I was thinking about the Discovery. I still wouldn't trade. THis has been a particularily bad year for snow. Try shoveling your driveway.

But seriously, tirerack.com reviews just about every tire out there. See what they say about your michelins and see what is recommended. Even if you just get a couple snow tires for the rears you will probably be in better shape. Of course I haven't seen your driveway. Another month and we'll be out of this. I didn't realize you got so much snow in Kansas.