w126 height
 

Hello all,
I am just inquiring what a normal w126 has for clearence between the bottom of the car and the ground. My car seems to be pretty low. I dont know what a normal w126 sits, so that is why I ask. A rough estimate is fine, thanks.

DK

Mine sets at 9 1/2 inches at the center door post.

Ditto. That is precisely what mine reads all-round.

FWIW, it turns out the frontal area for a W126 S-Class is about 23.5 ft squared and the drag coefficient is 0.36.

I typically use the dimension from the fenderwell to the ground on the rear axle because I've done extensive tests with two of these with regard to ride height.

It appears that the "best" height for proper look is about 26.0" above the pavement. This offers enough space above the rear tire so the front end doesn't look excessively high. In reality, it will always look high in the front unless the rear gets up to 27" The '86 is at 27" and it looks perfect with regard to the height above the tires. However, the body is clearly raked.

When the height gets down in the range of 25" or so, the vehicle takes on a nose high look due to the excessive clearance above the front tires. The SD is in the range of 25" to 25.5" depending on load and I intend to lower the front end on this one to improve the look..........in lieu of raising the tail as I have done with the '87.

The vehicle is a poor compromise all the way around. If you want it to look good relative to space above the tires, you must accept a raked appearance. The vehicle was not designed to have this rake when originally delivered.

My SD is at 27 5/8" at the rear wheel wells with a full tank of fuel.

I have new HD springs.


Tim