Interesting info on NEW E55 and CLE...
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1963 220Sb
Interesting info on NEW E55 and CLE...
The German firm is secretly working on a new E-Class that will combine the best of both worlds. Using the codename C219, the newcomer will blend sleek bodywork with seating and practical access for four. The car is expected to rival the likes of Audi's forthcoming A4 Coupé and sporty BMW 6-Series, and go on sale in 2004. It will hit the streets once Mercedes has launched the estate range, due out next year.
Although the basic design of the Coupé has been finalised, stylists are still debating over the doors. One theory is that the car will use a conventional set-up as shown in the current issue of Auto Express magazine, while another suggests it will sport barn-style doors, similar to those on Mercedes' 2002 Detroit Motor Show concept, the Vision GST. Nevertheless, the programme is said to be well ahead of schedule. As with the forthcoming AMG E55, all Coupés will feature four-wheel drive, Sensotronic electronic brakes and active air-suspension. Six-speed automatic boxes will be standard and five engines will be offered in Europe, including three petrol and two diesel units.
Entry-level cars will be powered by Merc's 3.2-litre V6, while flagship versions will boast either a 5.0 or 5.5 supercharged V8. A 3.2-litre V6 and 4.0 V8 diesel will be available, while options will include a dash-mounted TV and voice-activated E-mail and Internet.
No decision has been taken on which cars will come here, but prices are expected to start at around £40,000. Bosses admit an E-Class Coupé would fill the gulf between the CLK and CL, and the last model, the E300 CE, sold well until production ended in 1993.
Although the basic design of the Coupé has been finalised, stylists are still debating over the doors. One theory is that the car will use a conventional set-up as shown in the current issue of Auto Express magazine, while another suggests it will sport barn-style doors, similar to those on Mercedes' 2002 Detroit Motor Show concept, the Vision GST. Nevertheless, the programme is said to be well ahead of schedule. As with the forthcoming AMG E55, all Coupés will feature four-wheel drive, Sensotronic electronic brakes and active air-suspension. Six-speed automatic boxes will be standard and five engines will be offered in Europe, including three petrol and two diesel units.
Entry-level cars will be powered by Merc's 3.2-litre V6, while flagship versions will boast either a 5.0 or 5.5 supercharged V8. A 3.2-litre V6 and 4.0 V8 diesel will be available, while options will include a dash-mounted TV and voice-activated E-mail and Internet.
No decision has been taken on which cars will come here, but prices are expected to start at around £40,000. Bosses admit an E-Class Coupé would fill the gulf between the CLK and CL, and the last model, the E300 CE, sold well until production ended in 1993.
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Yes, but usually the 4matic becomes available some time after the model has been introduced and as an option to the normal two wheel drive.
However, in the case of the upcoming E55 AMG, someone is saying four wheel drive will be standard. This would be novel for an MB sedan, and the reason I remain doubtful.
But then again the outrageous new Bentley coupe is coming with four wheel drive because of the huge amount of torque available.
Maybe that is the thinking with the E55.
However, in the case of the upcoming E55 AMG, someone is saying four wheel drive will be standard. This would be novel for an MB sedan, and the reason I remain doubtful.
But then again the outrageous new Bentley coupe is coming with four wheel drive because of the huge amount of torque available.
Maybe that is the thinking with the E55.
