Duke:

That 5-link design is one of the best -- and not too expensive, either, unlike some older "independent" designs (aka Corvette rear ends).

Thanks for the lesson, too -- never hurts to learn more.

I do know that the W123/W116/W126 suspension is somewhat more forgiving at handling limits -- gives the driver plenty of warning that you are getting close to losing control and allows one to recover without sudden changes in direction, etc. This IS accompanied by somewhat unnerving rear end movment. It "jacks" some and the back end starts steering out, but this is a good thing compared to the W114/5 chassis -- the antisway bars are SO stiff in that design that you can force the outside front tire off the rim before the rear starts to slide. Very little body roll.

Needless to say, gracefull recovery is NOT possible that that tire off the rim.

this applies to the W107s as well.

Peter

__________________
1972 220D ?? miles
1988 300E 200,012
1987 300D Turbo killed 9/25/07, 275,000 miles
1985 Volvo 740 GLE Turobodiesel 218,000
1972 280 SE 4.5 165, 000 - It runs!