How much weight a 300SD can carry?
 

Dear friends:

Do you have any information regarding the maximum weight a 300SD (W116 or W126) can carry without incurring damages to the suspension parts (coil spring, shock absorbers etc...)?

Thanks.

Eric

I don't have any specific numbers, but I've packed my 300SDL completely full a few times and have had no problems at all.

Last time I did, I had about 400lbs of stuff in the trunk and back seat :eek: The car actually handles quite well considering how much extra weight has been added! I expected it to handle like a boat but it was just fine for the 100 mile trip at 80-85mph :D

If you're planning on carrying more than 400-450 lbs or so, check into the weight ratings for your car (perhaps your dealer can help look this up for you or it's listed on your door jamb sticker?)

Anything less than that and you should be fine..

Neal

The book says a hair under 950 lbs total - passengers and luggage.

I have posted similar topic some time ago.
The answer was this.
On the B pillar there is total weight.
[total weight - curb weight]
is what you want.
To get curb weight, you can go to a truck stop and measure your car's weight with full fuel.

Basic version MB's (basic in Germany, no power seat, manual tranny in many engine choices, . . . . ) can carry a lot of weight. However, options rob the load capacity. For example, the current E class 270CDI tested by a German car magazine had only 400kg Zuladung because it had a lot of options installed.

In my car, load capacity is also printed on B pillar. I do not memorize it precisely, but it was only about 880 lbs. Quite small for this size car.

Among current models I am interested in, Toyota Prius has very low load capacity. 350 kg in German spec. 835 pounds in US spec.
Another with low capacity is Mercedes C320, tested by Consumer Reports. Only 865 pounds.

If you see CR, you may find that Audi's have high load capacity.