brian,

Good job! Draining with the plug will get out at LEAST as much as drawing through the dipstick tube on this engine. I have looked at the location of the drain plug and done the oil change just as you did on my C240 which is the same configuration.

Whether one doesn't want to get under the car or not, the main thing is to change it and change it often.

Those that THINK they are actually drawing more oil out with their gadgets than they could get out by pulling the plug are just justifying their method in their minds. In some engine configurations they MIGHT get out a negligible amount more, but in other cases they won't get out as much.

Draining with the plug is my way, keeping ones hands cleaner might be someone elses way, but just change it regardless of method!

Have a great day,
Change oil hot and change oil often.