So I'm really, really contemplating a diesel
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 1,800
Likes: 14
1953 300 Adenauer, 1971 300 SEL 6.3, 1975 600, 1978 450 6.9
So I'm really, really contemplating a diesel
What are the opinions for that as a daily driver? Enough power for a quick merge on a freeway? Decent in snow with the correct tires?
Any downsides? I'm figuring that the torque makes up for lack of horsepower in normal driving.
I haven't owned a diesel in about 30 years and I figure they've probably changed a bit.
Any downsides? I'm figuring that the torque makes up for lack of horsepower in normal driving.
I haven't owned a diesel in about 30 years and I figure they've probably changed a bit.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 1,121
Likes: 12
From: Connecticut
2018 BMW 540d
In short....torque...you betcha.Merging onto the Interstate is a breeze,as is passing.Winter driving...with my BMW ("all season" tires) not that great.But by keeping my speeds down (which I do in winter anyway) it wasn't a problem.I have basically no experience in winter with my Bluetec but my hunch is that it would be similar to the BMW.
No real downsides worth mentioning (apart from winter driving with "all seasons"),only upsides.As one who's owned two substantially different (recent) diesels I'll say this....if "luxury",rather than "sport" is important to you then the E Class Bluetec is a *great* choice.And the more that rear seat legroom means to you the more you should look at the E Class Bluetec.But I must say that my BMW "d" was *far* more fun...particularly the accelerator.....but it can't really be called a family car.And yes,I know this is a Mecedes enthusiast site. :-)
Oh,one last thing...with both my diesels I found that they weren't so great in the city.But then,I'm not a fan of city driving anyway so maybe others would disagree.OTOH both my diesels absolutely *shine* on the Interstate.I'm convinced that the E Class diesel is,first and foremost,a highway car.
No real downsides worth mentioning (apart from winter driving with "all seasons"),only upsides.As one who's owned two substantially different (recent) diesels I'll say this....if "luxury",rather than "sport" is important to you then the E Class Bluetec is a *great* choice.And the more that rear seat legroom means to you the more you should look at the E Class Bluetec.But I must say that my BMW "d" was *far* more fun...particularly the accelerator.....but it can't really be called a family car.And yes,I know this is a Mecedes enthusiast site. :-)
Oh,one last thing...with both my diesels I found that they weren't so great in the city.But then,I'm not a fan of city driving anyway so maybe others would disagree.OTOH both my diesels absolutely *shine* on the Interstate.I'm convinced that the E Class diesel is,first and foremost,a highway car.
Last edited by listerone; Sep 27, 2011 at 12:37 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 2,034
Likes: 20
From: Toronto
MY17 E43 Matte Selenite/Macchiato Beige, MY16 GLE350d Tenorite/Crystal Grey, MY17 B250
The E BlueTEC is a great car all-around. Powertrain is more than adequate, and as mentioned, the torque is awesome. You just have to adjust to the low shift points and turbo lag.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 5,141
Likes: 1,293
From: Southern US
2010 E550, 273 Engine: 2012 S550, 278 Engine
What are the opinions for that as a daily driver? Enough power for a quick merge on a freeway? Decent in snow with the correct tires?
Any downsides? I'm figuring that the torque makes up for lack of horsepower in normal driving.
I haven't owned a diesel in about 30 years and I figure they've probably changed a bit.
Any downsides? I'm figuring that the torque makes up for lack of horsepower in normal driving.
I haven't owned a diesel in about 30 years and I figure they've probably changed a bit.
30 years since last diesel, you have lots to learn.
Todays diesels are actually better to drive at slow speeds than gasoline due to the huge amount of torque available from the engine. Less HP compared to gasoline model does not matter here as we cannot take full advantage of it. Diesel would loose to the gas model with top speed in German autobahn where the gasoline model would go 156 mph, which is the eloctronically set limit in Germany (probably all Europe). Diesel top speed is 149 MPH.
In the U.S. both models are electronically limited I think to something like 120 mph and both cars can do this very easily.
With diesel you then get the awesome fuel mileage so go for it.
Best, of course, is to go have one for a longer test drive. You'll see.
Member
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 141
Likes: 0
2011 GL 350-Lighting Pkg-P2-Parktronic-Blind spot assist-Heated everything-Running brds ,etc
Just make sure that you will not be moving to Illinois during your diesel ownership... Also, remember to fill up diesel before driving thro Illinois..
The corn lobby and the govt have ensured that all pumps in Illinois have 5% to 20% bio diesel junk added..
It is getting very difficult to find non-bio diesels pumps here.
Other than that diesels are awesome. That's all!
My 2c
The corn lobby and the govt have ensured that all pumps in Illinois have 5% to 20% bio diesel junk added..
It is getting very difficult to find non-bio diesels pumps here.
Other than that diesels are awesome. That's all!
My 2c
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 1,747
Likes: 20
From: Central Pennsylvania
2012 S350 Bluetec 4Matic, Diamond White, P2
I have owned many diesels. I swear by them. While technically not as fast as the E350, the torque makes it feel much faster than it is. And, it is within a half second of the gasser. The real issue is the type of driving you do. If you are mostly doing short trips and short communtes, the diesel, while still better than the gas engine, is not as good on fuel as many expect. If your driving is biased for highway driving, then you will likely be amazed at the mpg. On long drives I regularly see around 42 mpg. Also, MB allows up to 5% biodiesel. I would run 100% (B100) if MB supported it. I regularly used B100 in a Passat diesel I had and it ran great!!!. Biodeisel is a great thing.
Last edited by ImInPA; Sep 27, 2011 at 03:08 PM.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 1,800
Likes: 14
1953 300 Adenauer, 1971 300 SEL 6.3, 1975 600, 1978 450 6.9
30 years since last diesel, you have lots to learn.
Todays diesels are actually better to drive at slow speeds than gasoline due to the huge amount of torque available from the engine. Less HP compared to gasoline model does not matter here as we cannot take full advantage of it. Diesel would loose to the gas model with top speed in German autobahn where the gasoline model would go 156 mph, which is the eloctronically set limit in Germany (probably all Europe). Diesel top speed is 149 MPH.
In the U.S. both models are electronically limited I think to something like 120 mph and both cars can do this very easily.
With diesel you then get the awesome fuel mileage so go for it.
Best, of course, is to go have one for a longer test drive. You'll see.
Todays diesels are actually better to drive at slow speeds than gasoline due to the huge amount of torque available from the engine. Less HP compared to gasoline model does not matter here as we cannot take full advantage of it. Diesel would loose to the gas model with top speed in German autobahn where the gasoline model would go 156 mph, which is the eloctronically set limit in Germany (probably all Europe). Diesel top speed is 149 MPH.
In the U.S. both models are electronically limited I think to something like 120 mph and both cars can do this very easily.
With diesel you then get the awesome fuel mileage so go for it.
Best, of course, is to go have one for a longer test drive. You'll see.
I took a diesel for a longish drive right after I drove the 350 4matic, so the diesel was pretty evident even though it was way better than the old ones.
Just make sure that you will not be moving to Illinois during your diesel ownership... Also, remember to fill up diesel before driving thro Illinois..
The corn lobby and the govt have ensured that all pumps in Illinois have 5% to 20% bio diesel junk added..
It is getting very difficult to find non-bio diesels pumps here.
Other than that diesels are awesome. That's all!
My 2c
The corn lobby and the govt have ensured that all pumps in Illinois have 5% to 20% bio diesel junk added..
It is getting very difficult to find non-bio diesels pumps here.
Other than that diesels are awesome. That's all!
My 2c
Trending Topics
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 663
Likes: 6
Yes, just about any modern DI diesel engine will have significant and expensive problems running anything much beyond 5%. While BioD might be great for some of the older things on the road, it is not for the new stuff.
MB World Stories
The Best of Mercedes & AMG
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren
Verdad Gallardo
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine
Verdad Gallardo
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction
Verdad Gallardo
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping
Verdad Gallardo
10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used
Verdad Gallardo
Super Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 655
Likes: 2
Mercedes e350 BlueTec
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 910
Likes: 0
From: North Scottsdale
06 C 350 2014 GLK350
It may not concern you but the diesels have run flat tires that are very expensive and give a harder ride than standard tires. There is no place for a spare tire since the space is used for the urea tank.
If you are comparing the new diesels to the old mechanical injection models,that simple, reliable, mechanical system is now replaced with a computer controlled system comparable to the current gas engines.
My final complaint is that every time I have filled up with diesel fuel the price has been higher than premium gas. When I was first driving diesels, the fuel was based on cost, not what they can charge, and was less than regular leaded gasoline.
If you are comparing the new diesels to the old mechanical injection models,that simple, reliable, mechanical system is now replaced with a computer controlled system comparable to the current gas engines.
My final complaint is that every time I have filled up with diesel fuel the price has been higher than premium gas. When I was first driving diesels, the fuel was based on cost, not what they can charge, and was less than regular leaded gasoline.
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 27
Likes: 0
From: Mason, OH
1985 380SL and 2011 E350 Diesel
Stop what you are doing, stop thinking, and go to your MD dealer and buy a Bluetec. My first was a 2008 E320. What a beautiful car. Quiet, smooth, powerful (I raced a crotch rocket across the Utah desert, and it lost), and great milage. I drove it from Cincinnati to Boulder on one fuel stop. Left at 6AM, arrived Boulder 9PM. 1199 miles. Then I saw the MB commercial where the guy didn't know the car in front of him stopped but his MB did. Last April I purchased a 2011 E350 Bluetec with P01 and P02 packages. At the time there was only one Black/Black with those options in the USA. I wanted it, and my dealer sent a truck to get it. I've seen 40 MPG. I drive average 75 MPH. Even at that speed I see 35-37 MPG. I've added some chrome and trunk spoiler. I always get compliments on how classy it looks. One lady who rode in it said she had never ridden in a car where the radio was on, and she could have a conversation in a normal tone of voice. People can't believe it's a diesel when they listen to it. Compare apples to apples if you are looking for fuel costs. In Ohio I pay a few cents more per gallon for diesel than premium. I bet a gas E350 can't get to Boulder on one fuel stop!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 1,747
Likes: 20
From: Central Pennsylvania
2012 S350 Bluetec 4Matic, Diamond White, P2
Also, there is Sport and Luxury models. The Bluetecs all get 17" wheels, sport or lux. I have the lux and love the ride and four lamella grill.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 1,800
Likes: 14
1953 300 Adenauer, 1971 300 SEL 6.3, 1975 600, 1978 450 6.9
My regular commute is about 30 miles in the greater DC area. In the morning it takes about 45minutes and the evening commute is about an hour and a half. About twice a week I go to a remote office about 70 miles away during non rush hours on a divided highway.
Because I have MD plates on my car I generally need to set the cruise to 4mph over when driving that particular route, so about 59mph.
The main reason I')d be looking at the diesel is the gas mileage. It would be a no brainer in Europe but here in the US the diesel prices make you think twice.
Because I have MD plates on my car I generally need to set the cruise to 4mph over when driving that particular route, so about 59mph.
The main reason I')d be looking at the diesel is the gas mileage. It would be a no brainer in Europe but here in the US the diesel prices make you think twice.
Super Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 655
Likes: 2
Mercedes e350 BlueTec
My regular commute is about 30 miles in the greater DC area. In the morning it takes about 45minutes and the evening commute is about an hour and a half. About twice a week I go to a remote office about 70 miles away during non rush hours on a divided highway.
Because I have MD plates on my car I generally need to set the cruise to 4mph over when driving that particular route, so about 59mph.
The main reason I')d be looking at the diesel is the gas mileage. It would be a no brainer in Europe but here in the US the diesel prices make you think twice.
Because I have MD plates on my car I generally need to set the cruise to 4mph over when driving that particular route, so about 59mph.
The main reason I')d be looking at the diesel is the gas mileage. It would be a no brainer in Europe but here in the US the diesel prices make you think twice.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 1,747
Likes: 20
From: Central Pennsylvania
2012 S350 Bluetec 4Matic, Diamond White, P2
My prior car was a Volvo S80 T6. Turbo inline 6. It was rated 17/27. I regularly got 28 mpg on the Highway. With my Bluetec I regularly get 42 mpg on the highway. About 50% better than my Volvo (which is comparable to the E350 EPA mpg figures. Diesel is going to win from a cost perspective. There is the minor cost of the AdBlue (DEF) for the Bluetec, but I have spent less than $50 during my first 22K miles on AdBlue.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 1,800
Likes: 14
1953 300 Adenauer, 1971 300 SEL 6.3, 1975 600, 1978 450 6.9
IIRC, there are only very minor changes to the '12 diesel - most cosmetic, so if I get a post july build I should have most of the changes or is the diesel getting the new tranny too?
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 27
Likes: 0
From: Mason, OH
1985 380SL and 2011 E350 Diesel
I drove the Sport and didn't like the ride. If I want sporty I'll drive my SL. I went to one local dealer and bought a couple of bottles of AdBlue. The dealer gave me the "MB brand." I was on the road and approaching my first 10K miles. I was worried I'd run out of AdBlue so I stopped at another dealer. That dealer gave me the "generic" brand. I compared the specs on the labels. Both the same. A friend has a Ford diesel truck. He says go to Ford and by the AdBlue. Really cheap! I sympathize on your commute. I used to live in Fairfax and communte to DC daily.
Super Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 655
Likes: 2
Mercedes e350 BlueTec
I drove the Sport and didn't like the ride. If I want sporty I'll drive my SL. I went to one local dealer and bought a couple of bottles of AdBlue. The dealer gave me the "MB brand." I was on the road and approaching my first 10K miles. I was worried I'd run out of AdBlue so I stopped at another dealer. That dealer gave me the "generic" brand. I compared the specs on the labels. Both the same. A friend has a Ford diesel truck. He says go to Ford and by the AdBlue. Really cheap! I sympathize on your commute. I used to live in Fairfax and communte to DC daily.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 1,121
Likes: 12
From: Connecticut
2018 BMW 540d
Someone here (or at another MB site or BMW site) posted pictures showing how to remove the special spout...wish I could recall exactly where.But it's so easy even I can do it!
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 27
Likes: 0
From: Mason, OH
1985 380SL and 2011 E350 Diesel
AdBlue at second MB dealer was $22.50 for 2.5 gallons. Container came with screw-on flex hose. Hose fit in the tank perfectly. I saved that container. I"ll now go to the VW dealer and get the same amount for $13, and pour it in my nice container with the flex hose hose. Thanks for the suggestion. VW dealer is slightly down the street from my office.
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: St. Augustine, FL
2011 E350 Bluetec
Does the Adblue warning count down the number of miles remaining, or does it give you a certain number of engine starts before you need to refill it? I was told the latter, but I have not checked my owners manual yet.
Super Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 655
Likes: 2
Mercedes e350 BlueTec
If I recall correctly, you get a message on the screen around 1000 miles before you are going to run out...and then some additional warnings before you get the one that says you have three starts before we destroy your car (or whatever the message is). You should get lots of warning well before you get to the limited start stage.
