s560 4matic or not?
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2025
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s560
s560 4matic or not?
I plan to buy 2019 S560,
my decision come to 4matic,
I live in California, occationally travel to Seattle.
how 4matic affecting driving on dry road? will it make driving better even on dry road in California?
thanks
my decision come to 4matic,
I live in California, occationally travel to Seattle.
how 4matic affecting driving on dry road? will it make driving better even on dry road in California?
thanks
Super Member
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 975
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From: Fort Worth TX
2020 S560, 2014 SLK55 (Prev. 2016 S65, 2013 SLK350, 2008 CLS63, 2006 E350, 2006 CLS500, 2005 C230K)
AWD is overrated, if you need winter capability get winter tires.
AWD driving dynamics are not as engaging/fun, one of the reasons I decided to get the 65 and not the 63. Though admittedly for an S class driving dynamics are not that big a deal, it's still an unnecessary increase in mass, maintenance and fuel consumption.
Also with RWD you can get the fully active suspension (ABC) which is a completely different class than the air suspension everyone uses.
AWD driving dynamics are not as engaging/fun, one of the reasons I decided to get the 65 and not the 63. Though admittedly for an S class driving dynamics are not that big a deal, it's still an unnecessary increase in mass, maintenance and fuel consumption.
Also with RWD you can get the fully active suspension (ABC) which is a completely different class than the air suspension everyone uses.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2014
Posts: 4,242
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From: Chicago burbs
2015 S550
You guys are funny. The gas mileage on 4matic and RWD are nearly identical. 4matic models weigh around 140 lbs more than the RWD, which is nothing on these behemoths. The 4matic is quicker from a dig than the RWD because there is zero wheel spin. And they handle better in all weather and track conditions. The S63 is faster than the S65, even with 44 less hp and 74 lb/ft less torque because it hooks and handles better. The S65 only weighs 160 lbs more than the S63, so the performance difference is in the 4matic system.
Exactly what problems do the 4matics have? The diff is rock solid and you almost never hear of any problems with the AWD components. And maintenance is dirt cheap with only a cheap diff fluid swap every 75k miles.
Sure...you can get Magic Ride in the RWD models as a rare and expensive option. But the failure rates are fairly high and extremely expensive with the ABC system as the miles are packed on.
Exactly what problems do the 4matics have? The diff is rock solid and you almost never hear of any problems with the AWD components. And maintenance is dirt cheap with only a cheap diff fluid swap every 75k miles.
Sure...you can get Magic Ride in the RWD models as a rare and expensive option. But the failure rates are fairly high and extremely expensive with the ABC system as the miles are packed on.
Super Member
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 975
Likes: 270
From: Fort Worth TX
2020 S560, 2014 SLK55 (Prev. 2016 S65, 2013 SLK350, 2008 CLS63, 2006 E350, 2006 CLS500, 2005 C230K)
I never said faster I said fun.
Reliability for ABC in the w222 is actually good, the w221 is another story.
Regardless it's all worth to drive through a speed bump like nothing.
Reliability for ABC in the w222 is actually good, the w221 is another story.
Regardless it's all worth to drive through a speed bump like nothing.
Member
Joined: Dec 2019
Posts: 140
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From: Northern CA.
MY 18 S450V RWD Diamond White
Dave, 140 lbs is 140 lbs you don’t need. Like having another passenger on board. I don’t care about how fast it is because that’s not why I bought it. Look through the pages on this website & you’ll find many 4matic problems. 😎
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Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2025
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s560
I ran into a 2020 s560 with option listed below
..............
Magic body control:
is that mean it has the so called "ABC" suspension
thanks
..............
- 487 - MAGIC BODY CONTROL
- 463 - Head-Up Display
- 398 - MAGIC SKY CONTROL
Magic body control:
is that mean it has the so called "ABC" suspension
thanks
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 1,823
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From: Pacific Northwest
2001 S600 V12 Sold, 2011 Jaguar XFR Sold, 2017 S550 4-Matic, 2018 S63 AMG Sedan
I would DEFINITELY go with the AWD car. Just one time crossing Grant's pass will make you wish you had AWD. AWD is not overrated, not in the least. All large luxury cars are coming with AWD, either standard or as an option, following in the footsteps of mainstream SUV's. Never let someone tell you something isn't worth it if they don't already have it, or if their use case is different. I live in Seattle and travel to California several times per year; AWD is definitely worth it. Traction and cornering both benefit from AWD. Unfortunately you can't get Magic Body Control on a 4-Matic. But every other option comes on both cars. Wish you the best on your search.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2014
Posts: 4,242
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From: Chicago burbs
2015 S550
I've honestly never seen a specific 4matic issue ever pop up in the W222 board.
Super Member
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 975
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From: Fort Worth TX
2020 S560, 2014 SLK55 (Prev. 2016 S65, 2013 SLK350, 2008 CLS63, 2006 E350, 2006 CLS500, 2005 C230K)
This statement is incorrect non AMG vehicles run a 40/60 torque split under normal conditions. The non AMG version is not capable of sending 95% to the rear.
The 4matic is 0.1 faster than the RWD so not that you'd notice.
Post your opinion but please refrain from bringing trash politics into the forum.
The 4matic is 0.1 faster than the RWD so not that you'd notice.
Post your opinion but please refrain from bringing trash politics into the forum.
You said you don't care how fast it is, but 140 lb is 140 lb you don't need. Almost sounds like a statement conjured up by Joe Biden. If the handling is superior with the 4matic (which it is) and gas mileage difference almost can't be measured, then why is 4matic a problem? FWIW, the front wheels only kick in when there is slippage detected at the rear wheels, so it is running RWD over 95% of the time.
I've honestly never seen a specific 4matic issue ever pop up in the W222 board.
I've honestly never seen a specific 4matic issue ever pop up in the W222 board.
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Joined: Dec 2011
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W212 FL
I always fancy the idea of having a 4 MATIC car regardless of any conditions . I have not seen too much difference between RWD or 4 MATIC though . To me , tire choice could play more significant role rather than tractions systems . With bald tires even 4 MATIC could give up the ghost earlier than solid tired RWD car
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,414
Likes: 339
From: Charlotte, NC
Had: 1987 300TD, Had: 2004 C230 Sport Sedan, Have: 2014 E350 Sport, Have: 2019 S450
While I have 4Matic, and love the dig out of the hole, especially when trying to jump into a line of traffic from a right turn at an intersection (immediate thrust, zero wheelspin/ESP intervention), the major drawback is increased costs when servicing.
Jobs like replacing motor mounts are far more costly on 4Matic cars because the driveshafts are in the way. Several other services are similar.
There’s no comparison to our E90 BMW which spins a tire and then brakes itself almost to a stop, if heavy throttle is applied while trying to turn at an intersection. The Benz just goes - quickly and effortlessly.
That said, the confidence that comes with 4Matic offsets the potential additional costs in my opinion.
In the end, the question is really: what are YOUR priorities?
Jobs like replacing motor mounts are far more costly on 4Matic cars because the driveshafts are in the way. Several other services are similar.
There’s no comparison to our E90 BMW which spins a tire and then brakes itself almost to a stop, if heavy throttle is applied while trying to turn at an intersection. The Benz just goes - quickly and effortlessly.
That said, the confidence that comes with 4Matic offsets the potential additional costs in my opinion.
In the end, the question is really: what are YOUR priorities?
Last edited by dmatre; Jan 30, 2025 at 05:18 AM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
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From: Fleriduh
W212 E63S Wagon - GSL580 - E63 - E350 - C300
Yeah, I would bet fully 80% + of the S out there are 4Matic....so, there ya have it. Plus, on the second hand market it opens opportunity to sell as anyone who is in a area with "Winter" would want the all wheel drive.
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Joined: Aug 2017
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2019 S560, 2015 Honda Civic Hybrid
Interesting that someone mentioned they found a car with:
487 - MAGIC BODY CONTROL
463 - Head-Up Display
398 - MAGIC SKY CONTROL
.
My 2019 has this combination and yes, must be very rare!
BTW, to try to help with terminology, "ABC" refers to the self-leveling suspension design of all W222s. If it's an "Airmatic" car, it's an air suspension. "MBC" cars are a different form of "ABC" wherein the suspension uses hydraulic fluid rather than compressed air.
487 - MAGIC BODY CONTROL
463 - Head-Up Display
398 - MAGIC SKY CONTROL
.
My 2019 has this combination and yes, must be very rare!
BTW, to try to help with terminology, "ABC" refers to the self-leveling suspension design of all W222s. If it's an "Airmatic" car, it's an air suspension. "MBC" cars are a different form of "ABC" wherein the suspension uses hydraulic fluid rather than compressed air.
Super Member
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 975
Likes: 270
From: Fort Worth TX
2020 S560, 2014 SLK55 (Prev. 2016 S65, 2013 SLK350, 2008 CLS63, 2006 E350, 2006 CLS500, 2005 C230K)
That is incorrect ABC refers to Active Body Control, which is specifically the hydraulic fully active suspension option code 487. Marketing started calling it Magic Body Control when they got into calling the top exclusive things "Magic".
Last edited by VII; Jan 30, 2025 at 12:06 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2007
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From: Pacific Northwest
2001 S600 V12 Sold, 2011 Jaguar XFR Sold, 2017 S550 4-Matic, 2018 S63 AMG Sedan
Ok...So which is it??? You guys are confusing me about MBC and ABC. I thought MBC was the "better" system that reads the road, smooths out bumps, and leans into corners. But, if that's the case, what is ABC? Funny thing to note in that is that they say all AMG cars come with the self leveling and leaning into turn features, which are not called Magic Body Control.
Super Member
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 975
Likes: 270
From: Fort Worth TX
2020 S560, 2014 SLK55 (Prev. 2016 S65, 2013 SLK350, 2008 CLS63, 2006 E350, 2006 CLS500, 2005 C230K)
MBC = ABC just renamed, rename I think coincided with the camera "predictive" addition for w222, leaning into curves was added on facelift.
The 63s have airmatic and can only adjust height and change dampening/spring rate. No curve, no prediction, no always flat on corner, no avoiding pitch on acceleration/brake, etc.
The 63s have airmatic and can only adjust height and change dampening/spring rate. No curve, no prediction, no always flat on corner, no avoiding pitch on acceleration/brake, etc.
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2021
Posts: 362
Likes: 186
2018 S560, 2004 SL500, 2014 S550 (SOLD), 2012 S550 x2(SOLD), 2007 CL600 (SOLD), 2007 S600(SOLD)
ABC is the hydraulic, active suspension system. MBC is that system with the predictive camera function. With MBC you are paying for the hardware mainly, with the road scan function being a nice but not necessary additional feature.
Super Member
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 975
Likes: 270
From: Fort Worth TX
2020 S560, 2014 SLK55 (Prev. 2016 S65, 2013 SLK350, 2008 CLS63, 2006 E350, 2006 CLS500, 2005 C230K)
Also to add confusion the new electro-hydraulic version is again E-ABC but now there is also the more limited ARC which they decided is better for the AMGs.
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2023
Posts: 296
Likes: 91
S550 V8, CL600 V12, SLK32 AMG
While I have 4Matic, and love the dig out of the hole, especially when trying to jump into a line of traffic from a right turn at an intersection (immediate thrust, zero wheelspin/ESP intervention), the major drawback is increased costs when servicing.
Jobs like replacing motor mounts are far more costly on 4Matic cars because the driveshafts are in the way. Several other services are similar.
There’s no comparison to our E90 BMW which spins a tire and then brakes itself almost to a stop, if heavy throttle is applied while trying to turn at an intersection. The Benz just goes - quickly and effortlessly.
That said, the confidence that comes with 4Matic offsets the potential additional costs in my opinion.
In the end, the question is really: what are YOUR priorities?
Jobs like replacing motor mounts are far more costly on 4Matic cars because the driveshafts are in the way. Several other services are similar.
There’s no comparison to our E90 BMW which spins a tire and then brakes itself almost to a stop, if heavy throttle is applied while trying to turn at an intersection. The Benz just goes - quickly and effortlessly.
That said, the confidence that comes with 4Matic offsets the potential additional costs in my opinion.
In the end, the question is really: what are YOUR priorities?
RWD Service- Change rear diff fluid, Engine mounts are a pain, but doable
AWD Service- Rear diff, front diff, transfer case. Engine mounts are probably engine out.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 1,823
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From: Pacific Northwest
2001 S600 V12 Sold, 2011 Jaguar XFR Sold, 2017 S550 4-Matic, 2018 S63 AMG Sedan
But for the OP; like others have said, it really does boil down to priorities. Nobody "needs" anything these cars offer, but it sure is nice to have something that provides a better experience. But you get to define what "better" means.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 2,613
Likes: 1,209
From: Phoenix
222 S-65
My 221 S-65 with ABC was good enough in the snow with Continental DWS tires. Lived in North of Washington so plenty opportunities to play in snow. She danced through the turns well.
The 222 S-65 with MBC weighs less, has more power, more ratios in the transmission with electric steering that killed steering feel that I loved in the 221 car.
ABC Sport mode in the 222 car firms it right up. Never any body roll in all modes. Love watching others on rough roads get tossed about in their cars as the MBC car is smooth as can be.
AWD? Never felt the need.
The 222 S-65 with MBC weighs less, has more power, more ratios in the transmission with electric steering that killed steering feel that I loved in the 221 car.
ABC Sport mode in the 222 car firms it right up. Never any body roll in all modes. Love watching others on rough roads get tossed about in their cars as the MBC car is smooth as can be.
AWD? Never felt the need.
