DBGator

What is the difference in the feel of the ride for an AMG model? Has anyone driven an AMG of the S550?

Due to a change in the ordering slots, I have now been given a production slot for an AMG model. I don't mind the looks (for the few pics I have seen). But on the new MBUSA site, on the AMG package details, it says:
"High-Speed Rated tires provide substantially increased tread wear and reduced ride comfort compared to H rated tires."

Would you really expect a rougher ride? I'm buying this more for the comfort than for a sporty ride. I realize the engine is the same at this point, and that's not a problem for me.

Thoughts appreciated...

shaw01

Are you asking about AMG or the sports package? AMG does in fact have diff. suspension and ride characteristics (more sporty) but the "sports package" is really just the AMG body kit, no engine mods or suspension .. just the rims and body changes ..

The wheels shouldn't make that much difference at all. If it's AMG and you don't want it I'm sure there are plenty who do!

DBGator

My belief is that what is currently shipping is the sports package only - no suspension work.

What surprised me is the statement by MB that the tires themselves would make that much difference. And this statement was associated with the sports package option, not with a full AMG model...

srknutson

Yes the ride will be firmer and the tires will have more noise. If you want the luxury ride don't get the larger wheel/tire part of the package.

Nevada Jack

That same warning was on the W220 with the AMG package. Having never owned an S before, I am certainly not phased by the statement. The car runs quiet and is certainly a "luxury" ride. As far as wear on the treads, I do not have enough miles to evaluate the wear.

I note on the MB site the AMG package is $0...is this a continuation of the free offer on the W220 or a printing mistake?

srknutson

I think it is an error, but someone should ask there dealer about a price.

DBGator

On my production order, the AMG sport package was priced at $7777.

sprink49

My wife and I had this choice to make on the W220. Since this vehicle is primarily hers to drive, I left it up to her. The AMG wheels and tires are attractive but in the W220 we noticed a difference in the ride quality between the H rated 17" wheel/tire combo and the AMG wheel/tire combo.

My choice would be to run the AMG 18" rims on front and rear with a touring tire of the proper size. This gives you the option of rotation.

Here in South Florida there are sources for "new take off rims/tires" that make this possible. Many guys buy the AMG package and pull the factory rims and tires and go for aftermarket. This creates the availability of the take offs.

Just my thoughts....

DBGator

I'm doubtful that I will be able to take the AMG wheels off the car at the factory now. So if I decide to go to H-rated tires and 18" wheels later as you suggest, what sort of cost are we talking about?

sprink49

I can't speak to W221 costs but I have been quoted $2700 for a set of 4: "new OEM AMG take offs" in Miami for my '04 S500.

Nevada Jack

Why pay $7K+ for the AMG package if you are going to replace the wheels and tires which would make up most of the package price? If you would not be satisfied with the Z Rated tires then I would try and change the order...just my opinion...ymmv.

F_Porsche

I guess MBZ is just securing themselves with the warning from some of their
picky customers.

MBZFAN55

The 2006 S-Class had the "AMG Sport Package" as a no charge option to keep sales up during the final year of production for the W220. The $0 pricing for the same package on the 2007 W221 is more likely due to the unavailability of the option as opposed to its actual price. If you notice on the MBUSA site, numerous options are still unavailable at this relatively early date.

The $7777 is also not the price of the package. MBUSA uses the 7777 figure as a fill in the blank number when for whatever reason, they do not or cannot show a price on an option.

srknutson

Hey all the AMG Sports Package is now on the MB website. There is a 5,600.00 price.

ClayJ

Thanks, srknutson.

georgl

The best ride in real s-class-style you get with the standard-tires 235/55 17" - everything else is only for people who prefer look and not comfort.

srknutson

Looks, Cornering and Grip. I've driven both and I prefer the sport tires/rims option. You can alway use your peumatic supension for fine tuning.

MBZFAN55

Sorry to disappoint you, but the new real S550 comes standard with 18'".

Germancar1

The new wheel options are on MBUSA.com also.

M

georgl

Not in it's home :-)
To prevent misunderstanding:
The ride comfort is BEST with small wheels, but it can still be quite good enough with 18" or even 19". But when you want more comfort (ride, noise) and you have already 18" or 19", you have to make a decision between optics and comfort.
For safety reasons (braking...) even the smallest tires (235/55) are sufficient (even for the Autobahn).