I'm looking to buy a roof top cargo carrier and would like to get some opinions on hard and soft versions. I just need extra storage space (no skis, kayaks, bicycles etc). My wagon does not have the optional crossbars.

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07 E350 4Matic wagon, 06 S430 4Matic, 99 SLK 230
retired W210 (x3), W124, W126

If it's in the budget, check out the MB roof top boxes. You'll need the crossbars no matter which brand you buy. The MB roof boxes are fibreglass, and are of superior quality. Unfotunately, the price is at least double what you'll pay for an ABS plastic box.

We have the MB cargo box for the C230 (kinda square shape) and a Mont Blanc "long and skinny" box for the Subie. The ABS plastic box is pretty good, and the mounting hardware is "universal" while the MB mounting hardware is not.

I have the MB roof rack for the C230, and wouldn't buy anything else. It's not any more expensive than other brands, and is of very high quality.

Don't bother looking at nylon plastic boxes. They're cheaper than the ABS boxes, and are poor. They're prone to cracking, fading, and don't expect them to live long.

We bought the Mont Blanc ABS box because it has robust looking gas struts, a nice locking system, and a nice mounting hardware set. For Canucks, Mountain Equipment Co-op is the cheapest place to buy a Mont Blanc box.

Expect more wind noise, but not much. Fuel economy drops a bit too, but acceptable if you keep speeds reasonable. (about 5% penalty) Also, you sunroof becomes useless, as the box causes a wind buffet that I've found very annoying when the panel is open.

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John Shellenberg
1998 C230 "Black Betty" 240K

http://img31.exs.cx/img31/4050/tophat6.gif

Thanks blackmercedes - I'm leaning towards the MB case, but I still have a problem.

I've asked several dealers and MBUSA about the hard case carrier. One dealer says I don't need the crossbars, one says I do, and MBUSA says I probably need them for safety, but they can't say for sure. So, are there any other E320 owners out there who have the factory carrier who can tell me if I need the crossbars?

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07 E350 4Matic wagon, 06 S430 4Matic, 99 SLK 230
retired W210 (x3), W124, W126

Howdy,

I've not mounted a carrier on my wagon, but I'm pretty sure both the cargo and sports carriers require the cross bars.

I've been looking for a used carrier for years but may have to break down and buy a new one this Summer.

Good luck,

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Michael

1988 300 SL (5 Speed)
1994 E320 Wagon
1997 C230