This week I’ll be talking about something I’ve been
planning for this upcoming summer related to Mercedes. Since I’ve started
driving I’ve always wanted to buy a car to work on and fix up all by myself. I
enjoy working on my car now, but I would like to acquire a car that needs some
minor body work and interior work. Basically I would want something that I can work
on throughout this summer. So recently, I’ve been searching around for cars,
especially a Mercedes-Benz, that’s maybe been in a slight accident or something
of that nature. As some of you may or may not already know, cars with accident
damage can be about 50% cheaper than cars with no damage. So, this would definitely
be in my budget range.
Usually the price of a car is drastically cheaper
when it has written off, or “totaled” by the individual’s insurance company.
Cars are deemed “totaled” by the insurance company when the value of the damage
done actually exceeds the value of the car. Often times, insurance companies
find it easier to just declare an accident damaged car (especially older
models) “totaled” so they can pay the individual the value of the car prior to
the accident. Once the owner of the damaged car is paid off the owner usually
opts to purchase a newer car. In this case where the owner chooses to just part
ways with the damaged car, the car now becomes property of the insurance
company. Since the insurance company is not a dealership they try to make up
the cost of the damaged car they just purchased by selling it to people at car
auctions willing to rebuild and fix up these cars. Of course, these cars are
discounted by almost half, so the price to those who are familiar with fixing
up cars is seemingly attractive. Additionally, sometimes the cars that are declared
“total loss” may not even be damaged beyond repair and would be feasible to
repair. Now, going back to my summer plans on how I wish to acquire one of
these cars to work on as a project over the summer, I recently thought I found
one that was perfect for me.
I was looking on eBay and happened to find my dream
car. The 2000 Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG, now I know I already literally the same
car (the car I have and the 2000 C43 AMG model I’m talking about shared the
same exact body style), and yes I know it is an old car, but the history behind
this car is unlike no other. This particular year only 91 were produced, and
only 25 were imported to the United States. According to the Mercedes-Benz
enthusiast forum, there were 3 that were confirmed to be wrecked. With these numbers in mind, I see this car
online and it seems surreal that it is up for sale. Not only is it up for sale,
but the listing price is very low. After some more researching on the car, I
find out that it only has 36,000 miles.
I thought this might be the deal of a lifetime, as I could
potentially own the lowest mileage C43 AMG sedan in the world. After looking at
some pictures of the car it was evident that the car needed slight cosmetic
work to bring it back to life, but why not I thought this could be the perfect
summer project. I called the seller and
my enthusiasm went south as I heard the history of the car. Apparently, the car
had been in an accident in which it hopped over a high street island (basically
the pavement that separates the roadway) at a high speed resulting in “irreparable”
frame damage. Sad to hear such news like that considering frame damage cars are
something that are not worthy fixing because a bent frame compromises the
integrity the vehicle and most times the car will never drive the same.Judging the car based on the pictures seemed
to prove me wrong as the pictures did not tell the entire story. Now, I know
why the price was so reasonable for this car, and I’m glad I did further
research before committing to it. This is definitely something to learn from,
as pictures do not always tell the history of a car. Sadly, though this brings
the total cars imported to the U.S. that year down to 21, and who knows of the
other ones that may have been crashed and not reported. In the meantime, maybe
I’ll stumble upon another one of these cars in the future.
Mom and Dad Styling In The 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350
Stylish mid-size cars for the
average mom are usually hard to come by. Usually mid-size cars for moms or
better yet, for families in general are often seen in the form of minivans. In
the world of mid-size mom mobiles, style is often a hard thing to find. As
Benjamin Franklin once said "A house is not a home unless it contains food
and fire for the mind as well as the body." Most of the luxury mid-size SUV’s
fail to deliver this food and fire to the consumer. This ends as the 2012
Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 is introduced to the market of SUV’s/mid-size cars.
Immediately, upon viewing the 2012
GLK 350 you see the angular features and curvy nature of the sedan. The GLK is
much different than the usual SUV or mid-size car that appears to be boxy and conventional.
Although the GLK has only been in production since 2009, it has taken lessons
from others in the field that remains with the same traditional bulky styling
approach. It remains obvious that Mercedes-Benz had the words sleek and compact
in mind when this car was produced. The
interior presence is something unfamiliar for a mid-size/SUV car, as the car
looks like it can get you to work in style and yet also haul the kids to school
in the morning. The interior of this car gives off a comfortable vibe (which
may be needed when lugging children around) making any commute with kids more
bearable. On top of all this utility, you actually get some sport (for some
times the children aren’t in the car!) in this SUV. This GLK can make rather
mundane everyday driving quite fun.
Curb
Appeal (The Exterior)
This car really turns some heads on
the road, as it sticks out compared to other SUV/mid-size cars. While the GLK
is angular, it does not fall into the trend of looking like an architect’s
worse design plan. This car features many angles on the hood. Mercedes adopted
the idea from the big brother model, the GL-series, and made the hood line
slant downwards so that all the lines lead to the hood. At the same time these
angular lines are combined with a somewhat square stance. The mix between conventional,
angular, and curvy sets this vehicle apart from the crowd. Although, this car
can be called a “mini-SUV”, the high door line this car features also give the
illusion of added height similar to the GL-series. Overall, the exterior can be
described as stylistic compromise. Mercedes-Benz
has crafted a mid-size/SUV type car that keeps standard yet shapely features
while remaining to be an eye catching machine.
Interior
As you look at the interior of this
car, you feel engulfed in class and elegance. Surrounded by walnut inlays and
trimmings, the interior reminds driver of a spa-type atmosphere. Not only does
this machine make you feel at home, but it can be more accommodating to your
desires. With the Premium and Multimedia packages, this car completely changes
identity from SUV/mid-size car to near equivalent home. The Premium package
($3,200) makes this interior even better. It includes a panoramic sunroof which
makes you feel as if you are on your porch soaking up the summer sun.
Additionally, for those who thoroughly enjoy music this package also adds XM
radio, that makes even the worst traffic jams seemingly nonexistent. A favorite of many parents in this package,
is the power lift gate which makes unloading mounds of gear and groceries that
much more simple. Featuring 54.7 cu.ft of space, the GLK can easily manage even
your biggest grocery, shopping trips and pick-ups.
The Multimedia package ($3,000)
appeals to the tech-savvy parents. This package gives you the easy to control
and read 7 inch display Command system. Also, as an additional perk, XM/ Sirius
traffic helps you guide your way around congested areas to get to your kids or
destination faster. This XM/Sirius system
also allows for seamless iPod integration so your playlists are always at your
disposal.
In addition to the fantastic
features listed above, the GLK seems to be a good car to transport people
around in. The rich leather seats appear not only supportive but comfortable as
well. Passengers riding in this car
should have plenty of space. This is because the GLK rear row features 35.1
inches of leg room and 39.7 inches of head room. Even with the intrusion of the
optional panoramic sunroof, tall and long passengers won’t feel crammed.
Although seen as a mini-SUV/mid-sized car the interior features SUV like qualities.
Overall, the interior of the GLK 350 is one that every car manufacturer should
learn from. It mixes roominess, comfortableness, and elegance which usually don’t
describe mini-van or mini-SUV interiors.
Performance
Originally, SUV’s were built and
valued for their off road prowess and qualities and not for their on-road
performance. Lately, SUV’s are being built with a fair amount of on-road
prowess with the aim of tackling the urban jungle that is, your local community
or city. The GLK suspension helps in this task. The suspension consists of 4
wheel independent multi-link and shock absorbers that are constantly adjusted
via a program called “agility control”. Although, I have not personally driven
the GLK, rumor has it that this “agility control” feature enhances ride
quality, especially for city driving. Under the hood lies a 3.5 liter aluminum
head dual overhead cam (DOHC) V6 that produces 268 horsepower and 258 lbs/ft of
torque. This V6 engine also features multi-point direct injection in addition
to a ’knock sensor’. This engine should be quite responsive to any response you
may ask of it whether it be sensible driving or trying to show off to the red
light racers around town. Interestingly
enough, this GLK climbs from 0 to 60 in a stunning 6.5 seconds. Definitely, the
GLK is an SUV for thrills and chills per se.
Maybe you’re a soccer mom. Maybe
you’re a worker looking for a stylish and rugged car to carry your tools around
in. Whatever your needs may be the 2012 M-Class appeals to all. Coming to local
dealers this upcoming September, the new 2012 M-Class seeks to blend off-road
versatility with the kind of on-road manners expected of a Mercedes sedan. This
car can be used to bring your tools from Home Depot while accommodating your
luxury needs in case of a Gala or fancy ball you’re attending. Classy and
dynamic describes this third-generation SUV.
Sensible Styling
Anyone expecting a complete shift in
Mercedes' design and look will be disappointed. This is a familiar-looking
M-Class to our eyes, blending hints of the full-size GL and compact GLK SUVs.
The famous three-pointed star continues to dominate the grille and the
prominent shoulder lines lead the way to a rear that emphasizes its width with
taillights that echo the 2012 E-class.
Arguably the most challenging
feature is to be found to the rear of the C-pillar, where the angular surfaces
give place to an eccentrically curved rear window. "We tried different
solutions," says Kaul, "but we wanted to keep some of the influence
of the original M-Class." No less of an influence was a desire to optimize
the aerodynamics, which Mercedes claims are class-leading. Careful attention
was paid to the rear spoiler, the area around the windscreen and the front
fenders, which integrate subtle spoilers.
Sedan-Worthy Cabin
Jan Kaul, the manager of the
interior design, admits the overall concept was deliberately conservative and
reflects the car's global appeal. "The biggest markets are Germany and the
United States, but China and Russia are growing fast."
According to insideline.com, the
cabin mimics the S-Class interior more than ever, but seeks to assert a
distinctly SUV design language that's more upright and imposing. There's the
familiar mix of rotary knobs and switches, topped by a common multifunction
display screen. It seems as though customers now see the M-Class as an
alternative to a traditional sedan and expect a similar level of quality. While
the vibe of generations one and two was more utilitarian, the emphasis here is
on luxury and ornamentation. Can you tell the difference between the earlier
M-Class models compared to the current ones?
As always, Mercedes is never short
with its options list and owners will be able to choose from a vast array of
fancy gizmos and color combinations including Napa leather for the panels and
some particularly appealing Ash-Wood trim. Customers of Mercedes-Benz will be
free to indulge their eccentricities because of the plethora of extra options
available. If you’re interested check out MBUSA.com and you’ll see how this
2012 M-Class can be dressed up to your likes.
Regardless of its trim, every
M-Class will be tailored for four passengers. Although the average M-Class
owner usually carries five passengers, Mercedes states they would rather
optimize the comfort of a lucky foursome. Mercedes engineer Sinkwitz was quoted
saying "If you need more space, we offer the R- and GL-Class".
What’s Under Those Hoods?
When the ML goes on sale in
September it will be offered with two V-6 engines: the 3.5-liter gas or the
3.0-liter turbodiesel. Both achieve something that seemed impossible five to 10
years ago: They put out more power than before, and are more fuel-efficient.
The gas engine has 302 horsepower, up 34 from previous models, and 273
pound-feet torque, up 15 from previous models as well. Its fuel economy is an
estimated 17 city/22 highway, and both numbers are up by 2 mpg. This SUV is
surely an improvement from the earlier models. I know my Mother’s ML which is a
V8 only has 268 horsepower, and fuel economy is an abysmal 12 city/17 highway.
I often ask myself how such a large engine could produce so meager power. But
Mercedes has upped the ante in the horsepower aspect for the newer models as
needed.
The BlueTec turbodiesel six has been
reworked, now putting out 240 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque, increases
of 30 and 55 from the previous model, respectively, while fuel economy improves
by 2 city mpg to an estimated 20 mpg city/25 mpg highway. Not so bad for a
decently sized SUV. This particular trims fuel economy numbers are comparable
to that of mid-sized sedan. The fuel economy improvements in the diesel model
can be attributed to a few key factors, including weight loss, and the use of
AMG's twin-wire-arc spraying, a technology that reduces friction. Both engines
are now pulled by a seven-speed automatic.
On
Road Driving Features
One of the design goals Mercedes
focused on with this model was to improve on-road driving dynamics while not
sacrificing off-road capability. One new feature, which isn't coming to the
U.S. right away, is a very sophisticated On & Off-road Package, which has
at its core multiple settings. This is much like the systems in the LR4 and
Grand Cherokee: Drivers control the dial and can choose between six settings:
automatic, off-road 1 (light terrain) and 2 (tougher terrain), winter, sport,
and trailer. While this is available in
European models, there's still debate about whether this system will come to
the United States models. We all hope it does as it will enhance the dynamic
nature this car already has. One thing potential buyers should be aware of is
that the 2012 M-Class will come is the Active Curve System, which uses active
anti-roll bars said to improve comfort when driving in a straight line, and
prioritize better handling when cornering. However, at the dealer this feature
will be initially being offered as a special order feature.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a reference
point for large luxury sedans, with specious coddling interiors, plentiful and
useful technology, and a lineup that covers everything from a lower powered
engine to the most powerful four-door production car in the world. A true
competitor with the best describes the Mercedes S-Class. Names such as the Audi
A8L, BMW 7 Series, and to a lesser extent the Lexus LS are often heard in the
same breath when comparing the S-Class to other cars of its kind. This S-Class
certainly takes it looks seriously, and will see a fair share of glued eyes on
it.
Which S-Class Do You Want? (Lineup)
2012 S-Class (Shown With Xenon Headlights)
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class line
has five models: S550 ($91,600); S550 4MATIC ($94,600); S63 AMG ($133,550);
S600 ($149,700); S65 AMG ($201,150). Breath taking prices certainly, but
soon you’ll know why it deserves such a hefty price tag.
All S-Class models include leather
upholstery (yes, actual real leather), dual-zone climate control, walnut trim,
navigation system with voice recognition and Zagat guide, heated 14-way power
front seats with lumbar, heated power mirrors, 600-watt harman/kardon
15-speaker, 6CD, Logic 7 surround sound system with weather band and satellite
radio, front/rear illuminated vanity mirrors, air suspension with ride height
and damping control, bi-Xenon headlamps, and full power accessories. Most
come with a moonroof and 18-inch wheels as standard.
S550 has a 5.5-liter 382-horsepower
V8 engine and an accompanying seven-speed automatic to spin the wheels. The
S550 is also available in 4MATIC and it receives 15 mpg in the city and 23mpg
on the highway. S600 comes with a 510-horsepower twin-turbo 5.5-liter V12
engine estimated to get a puny 11 mpg in the city and 17 mpg at highway speeds.
Additionally, the S600 come standard with a five-speed automatic, wider rear
wheels and most technology equipment standard.
The all-powerful S63 AMG uses a
518-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 and seven-speed automatic transmission. But with
such impressive horsepower and bigger engine size comes a suffering in the fuel
department as it receives 11 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway. Driving
a vehicle like this you wouldn’t even mind that type of mileage considering the
fun you’ll be having behind the wheel. Taking a slight step-up in the power
department comes the S65 AMG, which boasts a 604-horsepower twin-turbo
6-liter V12 engine. Surprisingly, despite the shocking increase in power gas
mileage matches the “smaller” S63 AMG. But price tag wise, you’ll see the S65
AMG stamped virtually every feature one could ask for along with a heart
wrenching $200,000 price tag.
Safety features on every S-Class
include eight airbags, electronic stability control and PreSafe which will
close the roof and windows and reposition the seat and its pneumatic lumbar for
an impending collision. Fully equipped models use radar to stop the car
automatically from up to 125 mph if the driver fails to pay attention and can
alert the driver to unsafe lane changes. Night View offers a black-and-white
TV-picture-like image of the road and people ahead in the central dashboard
area used for the speedometer (which becomes a bar-graph along the bottom edge
while ancillary gauges remain as normal).
Do You Like What You See?
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has
many similarities with regards to body panels and lines as it did for its 2007
debut; with excellent aerodynamics and a modern looking style.
LED lights have become more
prominent with most versions sporting white daytime running lights in the lower
bumper, standing lights and parking lights that switch to amber for front
signals. As parking lights a strip of LEDs below the headlamps and three
vertically on the side illuminate, but as standing lights (as you might use
when parallel-parked on a dark lane) only the three vertical lights and
corresponding rear LEDs glow, so you could leave them on overnight without
affecting the battery. New tail lights that get rid of the body-colored
strips within are attention-getting LED as well; V12 models get adaptive brake
lights that blink rapidly during heavy braking.
The S-Class design has discernible
fender flares front and rear, classic grille more laid back, and a generally
flowing shape not unlike the sister-brand Maybach. These lines pay off in
minimal noise and aero drag, high-speed stability, and an air of exclusivity
afforded by the rear doors more than four feet long and the chrome strip
framing the side glass. AMG models get quad oval tail pipes, a more
aggressive look and air management with visual mass added to the lower
bodywork, deeper grille and larger diameter wheels available with the Sport
package on non-AMG models.
Almost Like Home (Interior)
As expected with the S-Class model
it boasts a large, luxurious cabin with all the features and amenities one could
reasonably expect. Unlike others similar cars, the S-Class for the United
States market comes only in the long wheelbase version. Long wheelbase
basically means it is a version of the car with plentiful room up front and
even more in the back seats. It appears to be an ideal fit for those tall
drivers out there.
Heated, 14-way adjustable powered
front seats offer three memory settings. These seats offer a wide ranges of
adjustment including seat cushion length and will frequently adjust headrest
height automatically, which like many controls, you can manually override if
you please.
Drive Dynamic front seats offer
ventilation, four varieties of massage, further adjustments for cushion and
back sides, lumbar and shoulders. Also, in what appears to a sport seat
with the comfort of a fine armchair, these seats can inflate side bolsters
relevant to cornering load to hold you in place without being confining. It is
impressive to see what these can do for the driver, and how it can change the
whole entire driving experience.
Not only is the driving experience
enhance comfort wise, but this S-Class has made it even easier to see the road
that lies ahead. Visibility is very good for the driver, with a sloping hood,
reasonable pillars, parking sensors at both ends of the car, rear camera, high
intensity bi-Xenon headlamps, fine-line defrosters, eight heated windshield
washer jets, and rear headrests that drop out of sight at touch of a driver's
button.
Rear seating is not a problem at all
in this car. With extensive legroom and four AC/heat vents, separate cabin and
reading lamps, and overhead lit vanity mirrors this car is ready for any
potential road trip. If those who you are carrying in the back frequently are
worthy there is an available rear-seat upgrade package that adds left/right
pillar mounted rear climate control, plus heated and ventilated
power-adjustable outboard seats and headrests. Maybe for those who carry
around young kids, there is the entertainment package adds a height adjustable
screen with video inputs behind each front headrest, video inputs and a DVD
drive under the center rear seat, dual wireless headphones and an individual
remote for each screen and the car's main audio system. Simply put, this
car is as comfortable and roomy as a library.
One of my favorite features to talk
about is the night view this car offers. With Night View engaged the screen
(located at the top of the dashboard) shows an image of the view ahead with
pedestrians highlighted, with speed along the bottom and warning lights
superimposed around the periphery of the image. Its central line of sight
location and crisp imagery make this the best system of its type. This feature
promotes safe and courteous driving in city, suburb, and more importantly rural
areas. I’d find it quite difficult to get into an accident in such a car.
Another exciting option to mention is unique to the average driver. Coined
“Splitview” by Mercedes this is practically a life-saver for those who seem to
have no fun riding shotgun. This Splitview feature lets the driver see one
full-size image (map, radio, seat control) while the passenger sees another (a
movie with headphones or map if they're navigating) simultaneously on the
single central screen. Stunning right? Slide across the rear seat or walk
behind the car and you won’t think that such a thing is possible in a car.
Lastly, Mercedes-Benz dubs their
control system COMAND. COMAND uses a round knob that rotates and moves in three
dimensions, a mouse-shaped palm-rest that hides a 10-key pad within and four
quick-access buttons across the front. Through a series of quick-to-master
menus and scrolls it controls hundreds of things, and while you can rotate the
COMAND knob to change radio stations you can also use the keypad to punch the
number directly. The system is very competitive with Audi's MMI interface,
BMW's newest version of iDrive and Lexus mouse controller.
Bottom-line, this is quite a car. It
is one the safest and most comfortable cars on the market today with reason. I
could go on for days talking praising the advanced nature of this car.
Mercedes-Benz truly out did their selves here with this S-Class, now all you
have to do is go buy it and experience first-class luxury and prestige. Test
drive it and you won’t question the price tag. Hope you enjoy!
Beauty,
elegance, and sleekness are words that describe the Mercedes-Benz 2012 E-Class.
This is the most interesting body styling of the E-Class compared to the
previous years which featured the signature bug eyed headlights and rather
simplistic body lines. This newly redesigned E-Class will certainly cause some
rubbernecking (for the right reason) when you slowly cruise around town. The
fresh face lift this model received seems a bit awkward, but as soon as you see
the three pointed star on the hood, you know what it represents. New for the
2012 year are the E-Class coupe and convertible, and the sedan remains.How could you not want to own one of these
for the New Year? Besides, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
remains a top choice against a plethora of competitors, including those from
Audi (A5, A6, S5), BMW (5 Series, M5), Infiniti (M37 and M56), Jaguar (XF) and
Porsche (Panamera). All these are very nice cars, but the E-Class holds a class
of its own.
All You Want To Hear About (Body
Style, Trim Levels, Options for the picky)
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is
available in five-passenger sedan, four-passenger coupe, four-passenger
convertible (Cabriolet) and seven-passenger wagon body styles. Each is further
broken into different trims that correspond with its engine. The sedan is
available in E350, E550 4Matic and E63 AMG variants. The coupe and cabriolet
are E350 and E550, the E-Class wagon is E350 4Matic and E63 AMG. As noted in my
previous blog post, 4Matic refers to the all-wheel-drive system.
The E350 sedan is similarly equipped
with alloy 17-inch wheels, automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights, a
sunroof, rain sensing automatic wipers, cruise control, dual-zone automatic
climate control, 10-way power front seats with four-way lumbar adjustment and
memory functions, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, interior accent
lighting, auto-dimming inside and driver-side mirrors, the COMAND electronics
interface, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker sound system with a six-CD/DVD
changer and an auxiliary audio jack.
The E350 sedan is further broken
down into the Luxury and Sport sub-trims, which vary in suspension tuning,
styling, interior trim and wheel design. Either trim still carries it class and
elegance. The E350 wagon gets standard all-wheel drive (4MATIC), a power
liftgate, a rearview camera and a rear-facing third-row seat. The E350 coupe
gets sport seats, leather upholstery, a 60/40 split-folding backseat and a
console-mounted transmission gear selector with paddle shifters for those who
want a little more control and fun from the automatic transmission.
Every E550 adds bigger and higher
performing brakes to handle all the power that engine packs, 18-inch stylish
wheels and leather upholstery (which is also optional on the E350). The E550
4Matic sedan comes with standard all-wheel drive along with the Sport sub-trim
items. The E550 coupes get a sport-tuned suspension along with a sport body kit
for added aggressiveness and curb appeal.
The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG includes
most of the E550's equipment plus a larger V8, various AMG-engineered and tuned
components (transmission, suspension, steering, brakes, exhaust), headlight
washers, a sport steering wheel, sport seats with adjustable bolsters, AMG
special styling elements inside and out, and the premium sound system with
satellite radio and iPod interface. The sedan gets a standard power rear
sunshade and a split-folding rear seat, while the wagon gets a standard
panoramic roof. This car has all the treats you need for the long trips and
just for daily grocery getter. Finally, the AMG Performance package (which will
be explained later on) adds additional power, more aggressive suspension tuning,
a sportier steering wheel, a higher top speed, red brake calipers and a
carbon-fiber engine cover.
Powertrains and Performance
The Mercedes-Benz E350 models come
with a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This engine
surely is a thrill to wield since it is coupled with a seven-speed automatic
transmission that can be switched between sport and comfort modes with ease.
Unfortunately, for the manual transmission enthusiasts, the 2012 E-Class does
not offer a manual gearbox, but the automatic surely does the job. The rear-wheel
drive is standard on all except for the family friendly wagon. All-wheel drive
(4Matic) is standard on the wagon and optional on the sedan. Based on Mercedes-Benz of USA, it is reported
that the rear-wheel drive E350 sedan can launch from zero to 60 mph in a quick
6.5 seconds. Without surprise, the wagon and 4Matic’s short sprint (0 to 60
mph) is a bit slower due the added weight of the 4MATIC system. But the Cabriolet
form of the E-Class sees improvement in the 0 to 60 mph department. The EPA,
estimates that the E350 will achieve 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, rather
decent figures for a V6 engine.
The E550 models get a twin-turbo
4.7-liter V8 that produces 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. Impressive!
Rear-wheel drive is standard on the coupe and cabriolet, while the sedan gets
4Matic all-wheel drive for the standard option. Mercedes-Benz analysts estimate
the sedan will hit 60 in a jaw-dropping 5.2 seconds, while the coupe and
Cabriolet should hit 5 flat or dip into the high 4 second range. This truly is
stunning for a car that is quite heavy to say the least. The EPA estimates fuel
economy stands at 16 mpg city/24 mpg highway regardless of trim level.
Finally, we get to the race inspired
AMG E-Class. This car is a real head-turner, in more than one way. The E63 AMG
gets a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 that cranks out 518 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of
torque. This car is for the advanced driver, who enjoys thrills of mashing the
pedal and seeing the tachometer race up. With the AMG Performance package, this
already boastful car gets a healthy raise in horsepower from 550 and 590,
respectively. Standard is rear-wheel drive and the AMG seven-speed automated
manual transmission (TipTronic). It is reported that this machine can hit 60
mph from a standstill in about 4.2 seconds! Of course, when you’re driving a
car like this fuel economy does not faze you as this Mercedes gets an estimated15
mpg city/22 mpg highway for the sedan and 14/21 for the wagon. Be careful out
there if you choose to wield the ultimate E-Class on the road! Certainly, this
car will leave you with a huge grin every time you sit in it.
How about a new 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class? Never mind, the talks of the increased performance of the BMW 3-series, the new 2012 C-Class boasts its own sportiness while providing an air of class and luxuriousness. Be advised, more sportiness does not sacrifice the ride quality, comfort, and the dynamic nature of the car. This is the tell-tale sign of Mercedes-Benz production; style, and reliability.
The newest addition of the 2012 is the all new C-Class coupe. Done away with after the 2005 model, this newly redesigned coupe gives Mercedes a more affordable and rather stylish entry in the two-door segment. Both the coupe and sedan levels share a fresh face with more curvaceous headlamps and better integrated LED daytime running lights. Not only has the exterior seen a facelift, but the interior has seen minor reworking’s for the better. Higher-quality gadgets, a more visually appealing design, and also a fixed display screen which replaces the awkward pop-up unit are the main attractions inside the new 2012 C-Class.
Engine wise, the C-Class model offers a wide variety of selection based on driver preference. If fuel economy/efficiency is a concern, the all-new C250 model features a lively turbocharged four cylinder engine. But what if you live in a seemingly frigid climate? No worries, the C300 4MATIC, has it all covered with the standard full time all-wheel drive system. Or if you even want a powerful beast that can give you thrills along with everyday drivability you can opt for the C350, which boasts 302 horsepower (34 more horses than the previous years model). Last but most certainly, not least is the German muscle car that competes with the best of the best; the C63 AMG. The AMG model is for true driving enthusiasts as it provides 451 horsepower. Every step on the pedal in this AMG model puts you firmly back in your seat asking for more.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
After a brief gloss over of the 2012 Mercedes Benz C-Class here’s where I get more in depth about body styles, trim levels, and potential options. As I said before, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is available in sedan and coupe body styles, both of which are available in C250, C350 and C63 AMG trim levels. The sedan is furthermore available as a C300 4MATIC, while the coupe gets an added C63 AMG Black Series. The C250 and C300 trims all come standard with 17-inch wheels, automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights, automatic wipers, a sunroof/moonroof, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats (with adjustable lumbar), MB-Tex vinyl upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, auto-dimming interior and driver-side mirrors, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and a sound system with a CD player, auxiliary audio jack, a USB audio jack and HD radio. The C300 4MATIC adds all-wheel drive and a V6 engine for a little pep in your journeys.
In its sedan form, the C250 and C300 are further divided into Luxury and Sport sub-trims. You’ll notice the difference between them in their wheel design, suspension tuning, styling details, steering wheel design and interior trim type. When equipped with 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the Luxury also includes a comfort-tuned suspension. The Premium 1 package adds on four-way adjustable lumbar support for the front seats, heated front seats, driver memory seat functions, a power-adjustable steering wheel, split-folding rear seats and a Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system with satellite radio and an iPod interface (optional separately as well). If you ask me the Premium 1 Package will do keep you quite comfortable in your daily drives.
In coupe form, the C250 gets a beautiful panoramic sunroof, split-folding rear seats, additional driver seat adjustments, driver memory functions and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. The coupe's Premium 1 package adds the heated seats and the Harman Kardon system with satellite radio and an iPod interface.
The C350 sedan comes with a sport mentality. It features a high output and bigger V6 engine and the Premium 1 package as a standard option; the C350 coupe adds a panoramic sunroof. The model above; the C63 AMG is equipped similarly in terms of comfort and convenience features, but gets 18-inch wheels, ultra high-performance tires, an adaptive sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, sport seats, more aggressive styling and different interior trim. This trim level is the best bang for your buck as you get a mix of high performance and comfort. Of course, Mercedes-Benz always offers a variety of options to dress up your vehicle to your standards.
Performance
Performance wise, each trim of the 2012 C-Class carries its own practicality. The entry level 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 is powered by a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder that produces 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic are standard. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 21 mpg city/31 mpg highway and 25 mpg combined which is very good for the segment, and matches up well with other entry level sedans.
The Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 228 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, and it's the only C-Class that gets all-wheel drive. Fuel economy stands at 18 (city)/25(highway)/20(combined), decent gas mileage for a full time all-wheel drive system.
Under the hood of the Mercedes-Benz C350 is a 3.5-liter V6 which produces 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is an excellent 20/29/23. With the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, you get a 6.2-liter V8 that cranks out 451 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque; add the AMG Development package and horsepower gets bumped up to 481. Fuel economy is 13/19/15.
Finally, the C63 AMG Black Series gets a more powerful version of the 6.2-liter V8 good for 510 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque. That should obviously make it quicker than the regular model. Either way the AMG models pack a punch, and will deliver a thrill to any driver out there.
