W213 Weight Reduction and Build Quality
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Mar 2018
Posts: 84
Likes: 3
E250
W213 Weight Reduction and Build Quality
Hi all
I recently learned that the W213 (E250, E300) is lighter than the equivalent W212 by a whopping 140KGs ( 1540KGs vs 1680KGs ) respectively and read this was due to the latest design using more aluminium and high strength steel.
I also came across many similar posts on various forums inc. germancarforum harshly criticising the W213's build quality specifically the interior for looking nice but feeling cheap and rattling ( esp AMG models with larger rims )
Can anyone here shed some light on questions/concerns I have
1. Is the W213 weight reduction mostly due to lighter aluminium panels and use of HS steel as stated by some reviewers or could there be some compromises in materials to save weight related to the perceived lower build quality ?
2. Is the W213 interior really as bad as some have said compared to previous generations? or are the posts I read just from a bunch of haters/trollers or unfortunate early purchasers?
During my test drives and inspections before my recent order, I did not come across any issues and thought the car looked, felt and sounded great but it was a demo car and I didn't have that much time so it would have overlooked a lot in the excitment
Thanks
I recently learned that the W213 (E250, E300) is lighter than the equivalent W212 by a whopping 140KGs ( 1540KGs vs 1680KGs ) respectively and read this was due to the latest design using more aluminium and high strength steel.
I also came across many similar posts on various forums inc. germancarforum harshly criticising the W213's build quality specifically the interior for looking nice but feeling cheap and rattling ( esp AMG models with larger rims )
Can anyone here shed some light on questions/concerns I have
1. Is the W213 weight reduction mostly due to lighter aluminium panels and use of HS steel as stated by some reviewers or could there be some compromises in materials to save weight related to the perceived lower build quality ?
2. Is the W213 interior really as bad as some have said compared to previous generations? or are the posts I read just from a bunch of haters/trollers or unfortunate early purchasers?
During my test drives and inspections before my recent order, I did not come across any issues and thought the car looked, felt and sounded great but it was a demo car and I didn't have that much time so it would have overlooked a lot in the excitment
Thanks
Last edited by mister__p; May 17, 2018 at 01:02 PM. Reason: typos
Super Member
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 743
Likes: 175
From: NorCal
2015 ML350+2025 E350
Hi all
I recently learned that the W213 (E250, E300) is lighter than the equivalent W212 by a whopping 140KGs ( 1540KGs vs 1680KGs ) respectively and read this was due to the latest design using more aluminium and high strength steel.
I also came across many similar posts on various forums inc. germancarforum harshly criticising the W213's build quality specifically the interior for looking nice but feeling cheap and rattling ( esp AMG models with larger rims )
Can anyone here shed some light on questions/concerns I have
1. Is the W213 weight reduction mostly due to lighter aluminium panels and use of HS steel as stated by some reviewers or could there be some compromises in materials to save weight related to the perceived lower build quality ?
2. Is the W213 interior really as bad as some have said compared to previous generations? or are the posts I read just from a bunch of haters/trollers or unfortunate early purchasers?
During my test drives and inspections before my recent order, I did not come across any issues and thought the car looked, felt and sounded great but it was a demo car and I didn't have that much time so it would have overlooked a lot in the excitment
Thanks
I recently learned that the W213 (E250, E300) is lighter than the equivalent W212 by a whopping 140KGs ( 1540KGs vs 1680KGs ) respectively and read this was due to the latest design using more aluminium and high strength steel.
I also came across many similar posts on various forums inc. germancarforum harshly criticising the W213's build quality specifically the interior for looking nice but feeling cheap and rattling ( esp AMG models with larger rims )
Can anyone here shed some light on questions/concerns I have
1. Is the W213 weight reduction mostly due to lighter aluminium panels and use of HS steel as stated by some reviewers or could there be some compromises in materials to save weight related to the perceived lower build quality ?
2. Is the W213 interior really as bad as some have said compared to previous generations? or are the posts I read just from a bunch of haters/trollers or unfortunate early purchasers?
During my test drives and inspections before my recent order, I did not come across any issues and thought the car looked, felt and sounded great but it was a demo car and I didn't have that much time so it would have overlooked a lot in the excitment
Thanks
The interior quality is a different matter. I have the 19" AMG wheels and the P2 standard interior (non-leather with wide cockpit). I could not be happier with the style, appearance and build quality. There are one of two "cheap" plastic pieces that could be replaced with higher quality materials, but overall, IMO, the interior is industry and class leading, and a step above my previous W212 interiors, which had become dated. Obviously I can't speak for other buyers, but I have experienced no squeaks or rattles whatsoever. Except for the effects of run-flat tires that seem to come standard on the 19" wheels, the interior is quiet and comfortable, and very very attractive.
Last edited by Cao Black; May 18, 2018 at 08:05 AM. Reason: typo
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 2,073
Likes: 85
From: San Francisco, CA
2017 E300
Multiple body panels are now made of aluminum and I welcome the weight reduction. I don’t think that there is necessarily any correlation between that and rattled. I have an early build E309 with P3 and 19 wheels. The rattles started coming a few months after ownership. It’s the price I have accepted to pay for a early build model. Nothing’s perfect out there and you may kick out. However, everything feels and looks good. Rattled are beneath the surface.
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 473
Likes: 110
From: Texas, Northern VA
Porsche Cayman S, Mercedes W213, Nissan Titan, BMW X5, Chevrolet Suburban
In two months I’ve heard no rattles or seen any sign of cost cutting. My complaint is the center console which I horribly scratched with a vacuum hose at a do it yourself car wash two days after purchase.. I plan to order a wooden one when I am home for a bit this summer. I’m not even sure that’s a price issue perse, perhaps it is. But it’s my only complaint. My guests heap praises when riding in the car and no one has mentioned any issues regarding build quality. I have 18 inch wheels and the luxury package and I love the ride.
Member
Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 207
Likes: 19
Audi S5
Newer cars don't feel as solid. For example, the doors - compare the previous-generation 5-series door to the current 5-series or E-Class. The difference is quite noticeable. The new cars still do great in crash testing, so this doesn't lead to reduced safety, but you don't get the same level of solid feel that used to be there.
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2017
Posts: 71
Likes: 3
E200 ML
The centre console area together with the rear aircon vents are the areas which the lowest build quality.
However it is true that the w212 feels more solid overall. But the w213 interior wins hands down aesthetically.
However it is true that the w212 feels more solid overall. But the w213 interior wins hands down aesthetically.
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Member
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E class, C class
Have you guys check the overhead sun glass storage compartment, in the W205, that compartment is lined with felt trim, compare to the W213 which is not trimmed at all. Also the fabric trim inside the center armrest storage is thin, poorly cut out and not even fitted properly.
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Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Mar 2018
Posts: 84
Likes: 3
E250
Have you guys check the overhead sun glass storage compartment, in the W205, that compartment is lined with felt trim, compare to the W213 which is not trimmed at all. Also the fabric trim inside the center armrest storage is thin, poorly cut out and not even fitted properly.
Thanks for all your feedback
Last edited by mister__p; May 17, 2018 at 10:39 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 2,073
Likes: 85
From: San Francisco, CA
2017 E300
Have you guys check the overhead sun glass storage compartment, in the W205, that compartment is lined with felt trim, compare to the W213 which is not trimmed at all. Also the fabric trim inside the center armrest storage is thin, poorly cut out and not even fitted properly.
Door bins are not lined with felt but they are soft touch even on the inside. Same material as the upper door panels if you dont have the mb-tex stitching
Member
Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 207
Likes: 19
Audi S5
Have you guys check the overhead sun glass storage compartment, in the W205, that compartment is lined with felt trim, compare to the W213 which is not trimmed at all. Also the fabric trim inside the center armrest storage is thin, poorly cut out and not even fitted properly.
Member
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 190
Likes: 22
E class, C class
I have both the W205 and the W213 and I can also confirm that on the W213, the door bins are not lined with felt or rubber mats at the bottom.It is disappointing to see all these cost cutting here and there.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 2,144
Likes: 326
From: A Dutchy Living in Marseille, France
EQE SUV AMG-line 350+
I had a w212 before and don't think there's a big quality difference in the interior.
(though the piano black is a b*tch to keep scratch free & clean )
(though the piano black is a b*tch to keep scratch free & clean )
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 299
Likes: 49
From: Tampa, FL
2018 E300
Our W213 feels well built and solid. Coming from a Lexus it feels even better. Our interior is good to go and the doors shut nice and solid. I think those who are comparing the old vs new are feeling the difference in weight and not necessarily the quality.
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 789
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From: Eastern Massachusetts
2021 E450, 2020 C43, 2015 C300, 2007 C280
The Tin Drum
I have read in the W205 forum that the solid sound of the W205 doors is due to a 12" square sheet of steel cemented in the center of the door panel.
