I know that this thread is a million years old, but I just HAD to say something because there is seemingly a lot of misinformation going on here...

I have a 1998 E430 SPORT, I believe that all Sport models came with the AMG styling/appearance package. I also believe that they came with the bigger 17" wheels. Also, my car in particular has a fairly firm/harsh ride. Very much stiffer than a non-sport model. It has Bilstein Sport Shocks. I have had other E430 sports, and they ALL rode the same.

I have driven other E430s and E420s (1997) and the ride was very soft, almost floaty in comparison. Same with E320 Base models.

I guess Mercedes used to take "sport" seriously. lol

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Current cars:
2000 ML55 AMG, 174k miles
2003 C240 T-Modell, 202k miles
1995 S320, 207k Miles