Drove a 07 E320 CDI today

[jake12tech]

Went to look at a local CDI that was for sale with the V6 and right before they introduced that stupid ad-blue trash. Hopped into it and turned the key into the accessory-on position and the steering wheel tilts down. Fancy! Had gobs of torque and lots of passing power. However, I felt the 7-speed 722.9 transmission is a bit harsher than its predecessor 5-speed 722.6. I felt each gear change a lot more in the pedal than the 722.6. Which IMO the 722.6 is smoother. It was very fast for a diesel and with the CDI injection, it was mistakable as a gas motor to the untrained ear.

However, I took the engine car off to look around and it was a total rats nest under there with the V6 and electronics. If I was to buy a CDI (which is in my future), I'd go with the straight six and deal with the injector issues they're known for. Easier to work on and a more balanced motor. I really liked the responsiveness of the steering, the box was very quick compared to the w210.

In all honesty, after driving my first w211 I would have to say it is not a whole lot different than a w210 in ride quality or comfort. It has a updated interior and a command system and a few extra gadgets, but not worth shelling out any extra money when you can buy a really clean w210 turbo diesel for $4500. I will buy one in the future just to have one, but other than that my w210s suits me real well.