cbh2

We're closing a lease on a 2005 E320 4Matic Sedan, and are very confident with every aspect of the vehicle besides the performance of the 3.2 liter V6. We know Mercedes has used this unit in many applications for quite a few years, however we're concerned with the modest 220 horsepower rating. We also heard from a few different sources that the 4Matic system does slow the vehicle down to a bit compared to the RWD E320. We test drove the vehicle, but didn't really enough time to really get to know the motor's capacities.

Any insight on the performance of this engine mated the 4Matic system, especially during highway driving, would be very much so appreciated.

PS - I read through earlier posts and noticed that MB has plans for an E350. Is it worth the wait? I hope not since we're so excited to receive this vehicle!

weinschela

I have an E320 4matic wagon (2004). The engine is fine, but don't expect truly brisk acceleration from a dead stop. On the highway it is more than fine in terms of merging, passing, etc. If you want that extra zip, you'll have to go with the E500. But don't get me wrong. The acceleration is more than acceptable. Comparining it with my last car, older E (2001), also 4matic, this car is much much better. Comparing it with a much older 4matic (1992), there is no comparison at all. I do think there is a slight penalty for 4wd. For my purposes, I was willing to make the trade off and I do not regret it.

F1Fan

Granted the E350 is coming as a 06 model, when would the E350 4Matic come? At the same time or a few months later? If you have the time, why not wait?

ATS

If you are going to wait to get a bigger engine, then I would buy the E500 4Matic now.

schristo

Perceived vehicle acceleration is different to just about everyone. The 320 engine produces substantial torque and horsepower and is one of the larger engines that is offered world wide by mercedes. The difference in engine performance adding 4 matic is not something that you would likely be able to discriminate in a blind test without measuring devices. In all applications the car has more than sufficient power. From a rolling start there is impressive acceleration without any noteworthy drop off right up through autobahn speeds. If you are focused on pure straight line timed runs, or place high value in a larger engine for sound or performance than you will always regret a decision to get anything else. Get what you want and avoid regrets, the cost will soon become a distant memory. After 4000 miles, with 1300 across germany during european delivery, I would purchase the same engine again.

psyrtash

I have a 2004 E320 4matic.I could use a few extra H.P....I use the electronic transmission to manually down gear to get that the extra "kick"....

2004 E320 4Matic,Parktronic, wood wheel, 4 Zone Climate Control(standard in Canada),HK Sound System ,BiXenon Hd.Lights

Double Eagle

You don't mention where you live. If you drive in the mountains or live at a high altitude, I would recommend you get an E-500. I had an E-320 and found it lacking in acceleration and passing ability at altitude or in the mountains. At sea level for free way driving, the 320 is OK but not steller. If you can afford it, go for the E-500 and enjoy the better suspension, A/C and brakes along with the higher power.

benzboy

Double Eagle has it right. Go for the E500 4/M even if you can't quite afford it. That's the way I buy things anyway!!

wem

Having owned both a 2003 RWD E320 w211, and a 2004 4matic E320 w211, I can tell you that the difference in acceleration is negligible. The dealer told me that if I was satisfied with the RWD E320's acceleration, then I would be happy with the 4matic E320. He was right. No doubt, the E500 is much faster, but for me the E320 was fast enough (fyi, I love to drive fast). Don't forget to order the Appearance Package and the Drive Dynamic seats (by far the best options I've had on any of my cars).

DavidNJ

There is some information that the E350 may be as early as December '04 production. The 4Matic would likely be available at the same time.

I don't like the current V6 engine for a variety of reasons. Even with RWD, it seemed slow to me. At the redline, where you need to send it to get any real power, it is nowhere near as smooth as its BMW and Japanese competition.

There is also talk of a new diesel, a V6 with 231hp (vs the current diesel's 201hp) for June '05 production. The V6 configuration would probably enable creating a 4Matic version. The current diesel seems quicker than the V6 gas, not because it has more power, but because it is quieter when it generates it (4600 rpm redline and more sound insulation). It also has a fatter torque curve, generating over 190hp over a 1200 or so rpm range.

Net...unless I HAD to get one now, I would wait for the new V6.

Exception to the rule: an in-stock E500 since that would still have the carbon filter and enough power.

Green E-300 DT

Wondering where you read about this? Size of this new engine?

Will it be soon or perhaps that's why you aren't waiting?

DavidNJ

My lease is already up.The 530 goes away this month. We really wanted to wait and see how this all shakes out this year: new Audi A6 with FSI engines, new MB engines, new BMW engines, revised '06 MB (probably May-June '05), upgrades to 5 series, new Cadillac STS, new Infiniti M45, new Lexus GS300/430, new Acura RL, revised Jaguar S-type (diesel?).

However we really can't wait. Considered Acura TL or Toyota Prius as interim cars. Gave up on both for various issues. Also looked at and more quickly rejected Chrylser 300, Infiniti G35, Cadillac CTS, various Volvos, etc.

These new engines and a link to what appear to be an authoritative German site are in another thread.

P.S.
Info on current engine is my own analysis.

ATS

Carbon filter? What is that..?

Fastbuck

See here