Magic Body Control or 4MATIC AWD...?
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Nov 2023
Posts: 142
Likes: 47
Magic Body Control or 4MATIC AWD...?
I see that you can't get Mercedes' much touted Magic Body Control on cars that have the 4MATIC AWD...
If you won't be using (will be storing) the car in the winter...
And you don't drive the car like a sports car...
Is there any reason to get the 4MATIC and have to forgo the Magic Body Control...?
If you won't be using (will be storing) the car in the winter...
And you don't drive the car like a sports car...
Is there any reason to get the 4MATIC and have to forgo the Magic Body Control...?
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2024
Posts: 30
Likes: 11
From: Seattle
2014 S550
I see that you can't get Mercedes' much touted Magic Body Control on cars that have the 4MATIC AWD...
If you won't be using (will be storing) the car in the winter...
And you don't drive the car like a sports car...
Is there any reason to get the 4MATIC and have to forgo the Magic Body Control...?
If you won't be using (will be storing) the car in the winter...
And you don't drive the car like a sports car...
Is there any reason to get the 4MATIC and have to forgo the Magic Body Control...?
The combo of RWD and the ABC gives me 'diet' AMG vibes. The way that this boat remains flat (due to ABC) and sticks to the curves is nothing short of amazing. Huge difference from standard suspension - but thats just me :-)
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Joined: Aug 2017
Posts: 1,697
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2019 S560, 2015 Honda Civic Hybrid
I've been thinking about MBC for my next car, I believe these are the key factors, maybe someone can confirm/add?
1. Not available with 4MATIC
2. Not the same thing as 'active body control' (ABC), the standard air-pressure based functionality on a W222
3. Only operates in daylight due to need for cameras to watch the road ahead
4. Only operates with suspension in 'Comfort' mode, not active in 'Sport' mode
5. Hydraulic system that requires periodic fluid changes
1. Not available with 4MATIC
2. Not the same thing as 'active body control' (ABC), the standard air-pressure based functionality on a W222
3. Only operates in daylight due to need for cameras to watch the road ahead
4. Only operates with suspension in 'Comfort' mode, not active in 'Sport' mode
5. Hydraulic system that requires periodic fluid changes
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2023
Posts: 344
Likes: 160
From: Maysville, KY , est'd 1767
Mercedes S560
I see that you can't get Mercedes' much touted Magic Body Control on cars that have the 4MATIC AWD...
If you won't be using (will be storing) the car in the winter...
And you don't drive the car like a sports car...
Is there any reason to get the 4MATIC and have to forgo the Magic Body Control...?
If you won't be using (will be storing) the car in the winter...
And you don't drive the car like a sports car...
Is there any reason to get the 4MATIC and have to forgo the Magic Body Control...?
From both the standpoints of wife's neck/back, and general riding comfort, I definitely made the correct decision.
Here in the mid-Ohio valley of northeastern Kentucky, we do get snow (4" on the ground today, but with dry clear streets and roads) and icy conditioins. We're lucky enough to have all-wheel drive Lexus RX 350s, so we just leave the Benz in the garage if it's smarter to do so.
Member
Joined: Jun 2022
Posts: 224
Likes: 121
From: Southwest Florida
2019 S560 4MATIC Sedan
I can at times drive like a mad man. I have the 4MATIC and MWMODS engine tune with 563 hp. When I make that fast U-turn and then nail it I am glad to have the 4MATIC. I also live in SW FL and the roads can be treacherous during heavy rains. The 4MATIC makes me feel confident when hitting them at speed. I guess it depends on driving style, location and needs as to which suspension to choose. Another benefit with 4MATIC is the ability to set your own drive height with a MWMODS module or similar device.
Last edited by MBGuy2022; Jan 20, 2024 at 11:07 AM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 9,155
Likes: 4,636
From: Maryland
2024 S580
If you never have to drive in winter weather, I would not worry about 4Matic and would take the MBC instead (I have never driven a car with MBC, mind you). I just prefer a RWD car, I only got 4 Matic here in the DC area because its almost impossible to get a RWD one here.
Bear in mind though that if you have an S Class with staggered wheels, the rear does like to step out, even with 4 Matic. One thing I have noticed about my S560 vs my previous RWD LS460L and AWD LS460 is that niether LS would allow the rear to step out in the snow as long as skid control was on, even if you turned left and put your foot to the floor and even in the RWD model. The S560 will step the rear right out if you give it any throttle during a turn in the snow, any throttle. I chock that up to the much wider rear tires. So you have to be careful.
Bear in mind though that if you have an S Class with staggered wheels, the rear does like to step out, even with 4 Matic. One thing I have noticed about my S560 vs my previous RWD LS460L and AWD LS460 is that niether LS would allow the rear to step out in the snow as long as skid control was on, even if you turned left and put your foot to the floor and even in the RWD model. The S560 will step the rear right out if you give it any throttle during a turn in the snow, any throttle. I chock that up to the much wider rear tires. So you have to be careful.
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 291
Likes: 50
From: Florida
2013 ML350, 2019 S560
I have not driven MBC. However, 4MATIC significantly improves traction and handling versus rear wheel drive, even on dry pavement. The rear wheel drive S560 rears up the front end and activates traction control when you floor it, which slows you down. The 4MATIC S560 just puts the power down with full throttle. No matter what tires you have, rear wheel drive cannot handle the power of the V8, as Mercedes doesn’t use limited slip rear differentials. The differential sends too much power to the right rear tire and you lose traction.
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 9,155
Likes: 4,636
From: Maryland
2024 S580
I have not driven MBC. However, 4MATIC significantly improves traction and handling versus rear wheel drive, even on dry pavement. The rear wheel drive S560 rears up the front end and activates traction control when you floor it, which slows you down. The 4MATIC S560 just puts the power down with full throttle. No matter what tires you have, rear wheel drive cannot handle the power of the V8, as Mercedes doesn’t use limited slip rear differentials. The differential sends too much power to the right rear tire and you lose traction.
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 2,644
Likes: 1,225
From: Phoenix
222 S-65
I’ve had two cars with ABC. The 221 S65 was great fun in the snow and only stopped when high centered on a snow drift in the driveway at the house in Washington. I quickly learned to have enough speed to blow through the snow drift! I used Continental DWS Extreme Contact tires. Loved the ride with zero body roll.
The 222 S65 with MBC is notably improved over the 221 car. Contrary to what some believe MBC does see some of the bumps at night; though it does better in daylight with seeing and adjusting for what is happening with the road. For reasons unbeknownst to me Continental doesn’t make tires that fit the 222 car so it has Michelins. I don’t see the need for AWD for my driving and really enjoy MBC. Zero issues with it. MB has improved ABC with each generation of it. I drive my car and have 45lbs of air in the tires for when I’m feeling frisky on a deserted stretch of freeway. The car never disappoints.
The 222 S65 with MBC is notably improved over the 221 car. Contrary to what some believe MBC does see some of the bumps at night; though it does better in daylight with seeing and adjusting for what is happening with the road. For reasons unbeknownst to me Continental doesn’t make tires that fit the 222 car so it has Michelins. I don’t see the need for AWD for my driving and really enjoy MBC. Zero issues with it. MB has improved ABC with each generation of it. I drive my car and have 45lbs of air in the tires for when I’m feeling frisky on a deserted stretch of freeway. The car never disappoints.
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Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 4,381
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W212 FL
4 MATIC just gives me more reassuring driving but I know we can't beat law of physics no matter what . Mechanical wise 4 MATICs having two differentials might be prone to bigger repair bills but I still think those can be really abused cars . Ride quality wise , I have not driven any W222 with MBC so I can't comment on that but based on reviews which are put by our valuable members , MBC should be worth it but 4 MATIC W222 S Class drives like no other car to me even without MBC
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Nov 2023
Posts: 142
Likes: 47
I guess I am still a little confused... 
I have been reading and it appears some people think that Magic Body Control is not as "soft" a ride as the regular air suspension...?
Which to me seems counter-intuitive.
And, I guess I didn't realize that it didn't work as well at night (I get that it would not work as effectively in snow or when raining, etc.).
But I thought the technology Mercedes was using was advanced enough to not need daylight to work effectively.
I have been reading and it appears some people think that Magic Body Control is not as "soft" a ride as the regular air suspension...?
Which to me seems counter-intuitive.
And, I guess I didn't realize that it didn't work as well at night (I get that it would not work as effectively in snow or when raining, etc.).
But I thought the technology Mercedes was using was advanced enough to not need daylight to work effectively.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2019
Posts: 3,170
Likes: 1,544
From: U.S.
Current/Last 5-years:GLS;G70;Alpina B8;X7;Accord. Sold:X7,TeslaS;S560;S550,X5;530e;L.Navigator;LS460
I guess I am still a little confused...
I have been reading and it appears some people think that Magic Body Control is not as "soft" a ride as the regular air suspension...?
Which to me seems counter-intuitive.
And, I guess I didn't realize that it didn't work as well at night (I get that it would not work as effectively in snow or when raining, etc.).
But I thought the technology Mercedes was using was advanced enough to not need daylight to work effectively.
I have been reading and it appears some people think that Magic Body Control is not as "soft" a ride as the regular air suspension...?
Which to me seems counter-intuitive.
And, I guess I didn't realize that it didn't work as well at night (I get that it would not work as effectively in snow or when raining, etc.).
But I thought the technology Mercedes was using was advanced enough to not need daylight to work effectively.
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2014
Posts: 19
Likes: 4
CL600
I’ve had two cars with ABC. The 221 S65 was great fun in the snow and only stopped when high centered on a snow drift in the driveway at the house in Washington. I quickly learned to have enough speed to blow through the snow drift! I used Continental DWS Extreme Contact tires. Loved the ride with zero body roll.
The 222 S65 with MBC is notably improved over the 221 car. Contrary to what some believe MBC does see some of the bumps at night; though it does better in daylight with seeing and adjusting for what is happening with the road. For reasons unbeknownst to me Continental doesn’t make tires that fit the 222 car so it has Michelins. I don’t see the need for AWD for my driving and really enjoy MBC. Zero issues with it. MB has improved ABC with each generation of it. I drive my car and have 45lbs of air in the tires for when I’m feeling frisky on a deserted stretch of freeway. The car never disappoints.
The 222 S65 with MBC is notably improved over the 221 car. Contrary to what some believe MBC does see some of the bumps at night; though it does better in daylight with seeing and adjusting for what is happening with the road. For reasons unbeknownst to me Continental doesn’t make tires that fit the 222 car so it has Michelins. I don’t see the need for AWD for my driving and really enjoy MBC. Zero issues with it. MB has improved ABC with each generation of it. I drive my car and have 45lbs of air in the tires for when I’m feeling frisky on a deserted stretch of freeway. The car never disappoints.
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2022
Posts: 22
Likes: 6
2004 SL55
When I compared used W222 S550 to S65 (both pre-facelift), the 550 (RWD) did feel like it had a better luxury ride. The S65 rides amazingly well with its MBC, and nobody would mistake it for anything but a luxury ride. Back to back though the 550 felt better in the luxury ride category. It’s not by a lot, but enough to tell.
I ended up with the S65 because the steering feel and less boost felt a lot better to me. The 550 felt numb and too light, which is probably what someone focused on pure luxury would want. I preferred more feedback and the S65 felt perfect.
The S65’s engine was a bonus, and it is amazing, but to me not necessary as the v8 was lovely and totally adequate.
There were several options I wanted (stereo, reclining rear seat, premium/drivers/warmth/executive packages) and it’s hard to find an S550 with them. Since the S65 basically comes with almost every option it was easy. I just wish mine came with Magic Sky…ohh well
I never tried an S63, or S600, and do wonder how they drive/ride compared to S65. From descriptions it seems S63 probably would have been a bit too hard edge for me and S600 too soft. I wonder if I should ever try them given the opportunity or just ignore and imagine the S65 was best fit for me
Whichever version one gets I’m sure they’ll be happy. I’ve owned a lot of cars, probably not as many as others in the forum, but this is by far my favorite.
I ended up with the S65 because the steering feel and less boost felt a lot better to me. The 550 felt numb and too light, which is probably what someone focused on pure luxury would want. I preferred more feedback and the S65 felt perfect.
The S65’s engine was a bonus, and it is amazing, but to me not necessary as the v8 was lovely and totally adequate.
There were several options I wanted (stereo, reclining rear seat, premium/drivers/warmth/executive packages) and it’s hard to find an S550 with them. Since the S65 basically comes with almost every option it was easy. I just wish mine came with Magic Sky…ohh well
I never tried an S63, or S600, and do wonder how they drive/ride compared to S65. From descriptions it seems S63 probably would have been a bit too hard edge for me and S600 too soft. I wonder if I should ever try them given the opportunity or just ignore and imagine the S65 was best fit for me
Whichever version one gets I’m sure they’ll be happy. I’ve owned a lot of cars, probably not as many as others in the forum, but this is by far my favorite.
Last edited by JohnnydoeyR230; Mar 19, 2026 at 11:03 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 2,644
Likes: 1,225
From: Phoenix
222 S-65
Congrats OP at purchasing arguably the best AMG Crack going. (Neener Carlos!) You will love it. Be sure to jailbreak Intelligent Lighting. Peter; AKA BenzNinja can help with that and many other software changes that will do good things for the car.
Reading through this thread I have to correct myself on my writings above.... My current steed is my second car with MBC. The 221 had ABC. 2014 S-550 had MBC. 2015 S-65 also has MBC. Seems the bent eight car just wasn’t that memorable.
Last edited by JohnLane; Mar 20, 2026 at 09:08 AM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 2,644
Likes: 1,225
From: Phoenix
222 S-65
I guess I am still a little confused...
I have been reading and it appears some people think that Magic Body Control is not as "soft" a ride as the regular air suspension...?
Which to me seems counter-intuitive.
And, I guess I didn't realize that it didn't work as well at night (I get that it would not work as effectively in snow or when raining, etc.).
But I thought the technology Mercedes was using was advanced enough to not need daylight to work effectively.
I have been reading and it appears some people think that Magic Body Control is not as "soft" a ride as the regular air suspension...?
Which to me seems counter-intuitive.
And, I guess I didn't realize that it didn't work as well at night (I get that it would not work as effectively in snow or when raining, etc.).
But I thought the technology Mercedes was using was advanced enough to not need daylight to work effectively.
I feel more of the road as my S-65 is on 20” wheels with short sidewalls. Rides very nice in 90% of situations.
MBC is less effective at night but is never harsh. No swaybars means one wheel bumps don’t get transferred to the other side of the car for those body motions.
Zero body roll in turns is wonderful. The car is great fun when being a savage. Amazing how a 4800lb car can seemingly cheat physics.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 1,852
Likes: 800
From: Pacific Northwest
2001 S600 V12 Sold, 2011 Jaguar XFR Sold, 2017 S550 4-Matic, 2018 S63 AMG Sedan
When I compared used W222 S550 to S65 (both pre-facelift), the 550 (RWD) did feel like it had a better luxury ride. The S65 rides amazingly well with its MBC, and nobody would mistake it for anything but a luxury ride. Back to back though the 550 felt better in the luxury ride category. It’s not by a lot, but enough to tell.
I ended up with the S65 because the steering feel and less boost felt a lot better to me. The 550 felt numb and too light, which is probably what someone focused on pure luxury would want. I preferred more feedback and the S65 felt perfect.
The S65’s engine was a bonus, and it is amazing, but to me not necessary as the v8 was lovely and totally adequate.
There were several options I wanted (stereo, reclining rear seat, premium/drivers/warmth/executive packages) and it’s hard to find an S550 with them. Since the S65 basically comes with almost every option it was easy. I just wish mine came with Magic Sky…ohh well
I never tried an S63, or S600, and do wonder how they drive/ride compared to S65. From descriptions it seems S63 probably would have been a bit too hard edge for me and S600 too soft. I wonder if I should ever try them given the opportunity or just ignore and imagine the S65 was best fit for me
Whichever version one gets I’m sure they’ll be happy. I’ve owned a lot of cars, probably not as many as others in the forum, but this is by far my favorite.
I ended up with the S65 because the steering feel and less boost felt a lot better to me. The 550 felt numb and too light, which is probably what someone focused on pure luxury would want. I preferred more feedback and the S65 felt perfect.
The S65’s engine was a bonus, and it is amazing, but to me not necessary as the v8 was lovely and totally adequate.
There were several options I wanted (stereo, reclining rear seat, premium/drivers/warmth/executive packages) and it’s hard to find an S550 with them. Since the S65 basically comes with almost every option it was easy. I just wish mine came with Magic Sky…ohh well
I never tried an S63, or S600, and do wonder how they drive/ride compared to S65. From descriptions it seems S63 probably would have been a bit too hard edge for me and S600 too soft. I wonder if I should ever try them given the opportunity or just ignore and imagine the S65 was best fit for me
Whichever version one gets I’m sure they’ll be happy. I’ve owned a lot of cars, probably not as many as others in the forum, but this is by far my favorite.
I have not gone looking for that in the menus. I will have to do so once she’s done at the body shop and I’ve returned the rented penalty box.
Congrats OP at purchasing arguably the best AMG Crack going. (Neener Carlos!) You will love it. Be sure to jailbreak Intelligent Lighting. Peter; AKA BenzNinja can help with that and many other software changes that will do good things for the car.
Reading through this thread I have to correct myself on my writings above.... My current steed is my second car with MBC. The 221 had ABC. 2014 S-550 had MBC. 2015 S-65 also has MBC. Seems the bent eight car just wasn’t that memorable.
Congrats OP at purchasing arguably the best AMG Crack going. (Neener Carlos!) You will love it. Be sure to jailbreak Intelligent Lighting. Peter; AKA BenzNinja can help with that and many other software changes that will do good things for the car.
Reading through this thread I have to correct myself on my writings above.... My current steed is my second car with MBC. The 221 had ABC. 2014 S-550 had MBC. 2015 S-65 also has MBC. Seems the bent eight car just wasn’t that memorable.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 2,644
Likes: 1,225
From: Phoenix
222 S-65
The Versa has taught me a few things..... Not all Versa drivers are *******s... The car is just such a steaming pile of poop it makes it seem so.
I'm reminded of an '87 Sentra but with a CVT. This one has "The Goodies" so power windows... Only the driver's door does one touch up/down. A/C is full manual. Fan speed set to high makes for ever changing fan speed with cooling that is barely adequate in 105 degrees after driving half an hour. Audio... It has bluetooth with sound quality from 1981 and a touch screen that requires looking away from the road to locate the tiny icon and touch it multiple times whilst trying to keep from getting killed by the Bro-Dozers who hate Nissan Versas even more than I do. CarPlay? Surely you jest! Plant right foot on the mat for the junk under the hood to let out 'that noise' as it makes it's way to 6500... The CVT does 'simulated shifts' so it isn't a constant drone; but it reminds me of a time I never wanted to revisit from my youth. I have never owned a Nissan but got to rebuild every feedback carburetor in Seattle shortly after the wizards of smart decided for us that we just had to have Ethanol in the gas which sent all the trash that had been (harmlessly) collecting in the fuel tank for the car's whole life right through the fuel filters (Yes; plural) to plug up all the little passages in the carburetor + make the feedback solenoid a solid mass and often make fuel pumps die.
Suffice to say withdrawal from AMG Crack is in the acute phase and the rental isn't helping.
But thanks for the laugh Carlos.
