PHML

It was raining...stopped at a red light...slight incline...hit the gas...rear wheels were spinning for some reason..traction control was still ON as normal....must be the crappy contiprocontacts.

ImInPA

When I first got my Bluetec, the RunFlat Bridgestones were not the greatest from a traction perspective. I could very easily bring the rear end out with the traction control light solidly lit. 400 ft-lbs of torque can do that in an instant.

Raymond Lee

Many years ago I had a bad experience with Conti tire with bubble or blisters and I never go back. I'm not saying it is still bad. The tires were nearly new when it happened.

tjkaz

If the ESP program is working correctly the engine won't/shouldn't deliver 400 ft-lbs of torque when it senses traction break-away, as the ESP logic will reduce engine power to re-engage the tires. I've played with my previous rides (E500 and SL500) in the rain (in safe locations of course) and found it interesting to see how the ESP would either brake wheels independently and/or reduce/throttle back engine power, etc. Very dependable. I haven't played with my new ride, but presume it's basically the same - if not better. Don't know if or why the Bluetec would be any different, but trust your observations.
From the 2011 E-series owner manual, "If ESP detects that the vehicle is deviating from the direction desired by the driver, one or more wheels are braked to stabilize the vehicle. If necessary, the engine output is also modified to keep the vehicle on the desired course within physical limits. ESP assists the driver when pulling away on wet or slipper roads. ESP can also stabilize the vehicle during braking. If ESP intervenes, the warning lamp flashes in the instrument cluster."
If anyone can routinely spin out their rear-end with ESP on, I would get it checked by the dealer soonest.

ImInPA

ESP is a wonderful system to be sure. But, even the manual states it cannot overcome the laws of physics. I wish the Bluetecs came with a true LSD. This car begs for that.