richp

I am considering trading in my 1994 C280 for a 1998 - 2000 E320. In my search, I've come across some 4matic models. We live in N.California, but AWD could be useful for the 5 to 10 times per year that we head to the mountains for snow skiing.

Are there drawbacks to having the AWD? Is the car slower, sluggish, less responsive? Is there a significant decrease in mileage? Does the additional AWD drivetrain cause more maintenance costs, or have reliability issues?

For the same reasons I do not want an SUV, I don't want to live with "significant" AWD drawbacks on the other 345 days a year.

Thank you for your advice.

sosh

I have an 01 E320 4matic. Perhaps the mileage is a tad less but I do not notice it or care. Actually, I feel that the car rides better than the 2WD version, almost like its on rails. Performance is quite good and I have had no 4WD maint abnormalities. Seems a bit more solid. I would imagine that in the very long term there may be some more maint but have not heard of any complaints.When I replace my 01 I will buy another new 4Matic

cobac

Handling is great in my 4matic.... Remember even the fancy sports cars have 4 wheel drive for superior road grip and handling (look at Porsche)...

So far so good...

E430_4MATIC

It's not just about snow. After the first torrential downpour I drove through, I was sold. There was an overwhelming sense of security and I too could not imagine driving anything but a 4Matic.

As for reliability and repair costs, make sure you by a Starkmark vehicle and purchase the full bumper to bumper coverage for as long as you think you'll own it.

richp

That all sounds great to me. It confirms what I've gathered over the years, before I was actually looking to buy.

Thanks for your advice.