W210 handling: 4matic vs RWD
 

Can anyone with experience of both please compare the general feel, handling and gas mileage of the E320 W210 with standard rear-wheel drive and the same sedan with 4matic. Any input is greatly appreciated.

i have not driven one but I did have a magnum with the mercedes awd system. I have also read about the fourmatic benz. I would expect you will not feel any difference under normal driving. Under spirited driving the heavier 4matic will feel a little less nimble but not very noticable. In wet or snowy conditions you will feel great traction taking off. Otherwise it will feel like a normal car. You will have a little less acceleration due to more weight and less fuel economy. about 2 mpg I believe in the magnum so probably similar in the benz.

Tom W

I can tell you that in the winter in Colorado, the two wheel drive will use a lot less gas ---- because it will never leave the garage. I have a 99 E320 4matic and it handles great on wet or dry pavement, is unstoppable in the snow, and gets 22 mpg around town and 28 hwy.

Depending on were you live...95% of the time you wouldn't know the difference..

BUT with any rain OR snow OR gravel you would love the difference!