OK, got some measurements on the new parts this weekend with a Cenco caliper. Here goes:

................................% difference:
Part.........new.......old.....diam.....Area
Front bar*...2.75cm....2.67cm...3%......6%
Front coil...1.55cm....1.40cm...11%.....22%
Rear bar.....1.70cm....1.50cm...13%.....28%
Rear coil....1.50cm....1.45cm...3%......7%

* The front bar tapers twice: once at the transition from the horizontal to the vertical, and again at the transition from the vertical to the bar ends. Neither of these diameters changed between the old and new bars.

Note that a relatively small diameter change results in a large cross sectional area change (amount of metal added to the part). Also be aware that there is a lot more to the changes than just the diameter of the parts. Changes in the choice of steel alloy will alter the torsional rigidity of the sway bars, as will any tempering, mechanical, or chemical processing. The length and angle of the tapers will also influence sway bar rigidity. For example, MB has manufactured the Sportline springs to be "progressive", increasing the firmness as cornering forces increase. These improved mechanical properties are not revealed by measuring the spring diameter.

Bottom line - my inner ear, butt dyno, and brake pads all say it corners better than I can probably drive, has a comfortable ride, was well worth the cost, and I wouldn't change back to the stock parts for anything.

------------------
JCE
87 300E 58,000 miles
Smoke Silver

[This message has been edited by JCE (edited 11-07-1999).]

[This message has been edited by JCE (edited 11-07-1999).]

[This message has been edited by JCE (edited 11-07-1999).]