Towing it backwards will result in a crash.

Towing it with the rear wheels down will ruin the transmission and probably also cause a crash.

Tow on a flatbed trailer or truck only.

Simple as that.

__________________
-diesel is not just a fuel, its a way of life-
'15 GLK250 Bluetec 118k - mine - (OC-123,800)
'17 Metris(VITO!) - 37k - wifes (OC-41k)
'09 Sprinter 3500 Winnebago View - 62k (OC - 67k)
'13 ML350 Bluetec - 95k - dad's (OC-98k)
'01 SL500 - 103k(km) - dad's (OC-110,000km)
'16 E400 4matic Sedan - 148k - Brothers (OC-155k)

Here is the result of towing it backwards..


Towing DISASTER!!!
Towing DISASTER!!!



Have a great day.

__________________
ASE Master Mechanic
https://whunter.carrd.co/

Prototype R&D/testing:
Thermal & Aerodynamic System Engineering (TASE) Senior vehicle instrumentation technician.
Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH).
Dynamometer.
Heat exchanger durability.
HV-A/C Climate Control.
Vehicle build.
Fleet Durability
Technical Quality Auditor.
Automotive Technical Writer

1985 300SD
1983 300D
2003 Volvo V70

https://www.boldegoist.com/

You can tow with the rear wheels on the ground or with the rear wheels up... neither will necessarly result in an accident or damage BUT:

Because the weight distribution is all wrong with the rear wheels up, the car will whip as speed increases. You should only do this for short distances under slow speeds. It will be very obvious what speed you can safely go and yes, secure that steering wheel!! In fact MB states this is the preferred method of towing instead of wheels on the ground (for short distances, if you are not able to disconnect the driveshaft). This doesn't sound like a way that will work for you considering the distance and speed you need to go.


You can tow the car with the rear wheels on the ground. MB states up to 75 miles and do not exceed 30 MPH. However they also state: "To positively avoid a possibility of damage to the transmission, however, we recommend to disconnect the driveshaft at the rear axle drive flange on any towing beyond a short tow to a nearby garage."

So in summary, either method can be used in an emergency, but you must use common sense. Flatbed/trailer is always best. Short of that, tow with the rear wheels down but disconnect the driveshaft.

__________________