4matic-why does it have the 5 spd trans?
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 309
Likes: 0
2004 E500
4matic-why does it have the 5 spd trans?
I am curious- why does the rwd E500 now have a 7 spd transmission while the 4matic gets wht appears to be the "old" 5 speed transmission? I've been researching this behicle for awhile and expected all versions of the E500 to get the new tranny. ANy thoughts/ideas?
Member
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 221
Likes: 0
From: Houston, TX
02 996 C2 Cabrio
The 5spd is tried and true...
4MATIC has just been reintroduced and combining an additional front differential with torque splitting and a brand spanking new 7G tranny is probably asking for trouble...
Once it's battle-tested in the E500, then MB will probably try and work it into the 4MATIC and other models. Maybe then, it might even find a home in the E55 monster.
That's my take on the situation...
Once it's battle-tested in the E500, then MB will probably try and work it into the 4MATIC and other models. Maybe then, it might even find a home in the E55 monster.
That's my take on the situation...
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 354
Likes: 0
From: Minneeeesoootah
i would say that 7G isnt available with 4Matic (yet?) because perhaps the current 4Matic setup was designed for the W211 before the 7G came along and they havent yet had time to make them compatible. perhaps for '05? as for 7G it will probably be the standard automatic across most/all of the product line-up within a few years. it has a higher torque capacity so it will soon be the staple of the AMG cars, as the transmission and tires seem to be all thats holding back the current AMG monsters.
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 346
Likes: 0
Also probably has something to do with location. The 4Matic E's (both wagons and sedans) are fitted with the 4matic in Graz, Austria. They are then shipped to Germany. This additional time lag likely would have required a delay in releasing the 4Matic E's if the Austria plant had had to wait for the availability of the 7 speed transmissions.
Go with the E320 4Matic and this becomes a non issue.
Go with the E320 4Matic and this becomes a non issue.
