The MBUSA "Build Your Own" footnotes that the E3 Sport Package is not available with 4-matic. Those of you at dealerships does this mean that cars can be ordered with 4-matic even though the option won't be available on the E Class until late summer. (i.e., does the dealer order sheet allow putting in an order for a 4-matic E Class now even though delivery will obviously be delayed?)

Also does this mean that the 4-matic cars will include the sport package as part of a package?

Also any updates on when the folding rear seat option will become available?

The website also says that the airmatic is not available with the E3 sport package. Same question as above, does this mean that the sport package for the E 320 includes airmatic? [I also note that airmatic is not listed as an orderable option yet for the E320 either on the "build your own" site]

Could it be that Mercedes plans to incorporate a unique body style with the 4-matic versions of its E Class ala Volvo's Cross-Country and Subaru's Outback's? This could explain why the sports package is already listed as not available with the 4-matic.

In any event, what is the ordering status for 4-matic. Will MBUSA's computers even allow ordering of the new E Class with 4-matic? If not, assuming production to start in July of 2003, what is the earliest that a dealer can place an order?