Difference in weight between US/Euro 16V??? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Itgb · #1 10-27-2002, 07:01 PM

I was just wondering what the difference is between the cars that acounts for the ~250lbs difference in weight? I know that the Euro doesn't have power seats and precats, but I don't see how that would add up to 250lbs. Can anyone shed some light for me?

Thanks,
Giancarlo

Glen · #2 10-28-2002, 06:53 PM

You know, I've seen the published weight differences and I've driven both U.S. and Euro spec 16Vs and at this point I don't believe there really is that much of a difference on average.

Here's what I think...all U.S. spec cars are probably right around 3000 lbs. The lightest, decontented Euro spec car (manual windows, no a/c, manual seats, etc.) is what the published weight refers to...so roughly 2750 pounds. In reality, many Euro cars have a/c and at least two power windows. So the difference is probably around 100 to 150 pounds max on average.

Like I said, I've drive both versions...back to back. The Euro was not any more noisy so I doubt it had much less insulation. It didn't pull any harder since the rear end ratios compensate for that. It did have the slightly higher redline but that was hardly noticable in the real world, on the street.

It wouldn't be completely fair to judge the suspension because my car was on 17" rubber and lowered suspension while the Euro car was stock but overall, the Euro didn't feel any more nimble...again, this isn't completely fair.

davidmash · #3 10-30-2002, 11:21 AM

You also have to take into account the safety equipment. The European cars do not have reinforcements in the doors, bumpers and all the other stuff that entails to make the car US legal

Itgb · #4 10-30-2002, 12:15 PM

Thanks for the info,

I did not know about these extra safety reinforcements on U.S. cars. Maybe thats the last 100lbs that makes the U.S. spec 16V heavier. Glen, I know what you mean about those features. The Euro 16V's I have seen have power windows and other features for added weight.

Thanks,
Giancarlo