I have a general question about coolant temperatures in different cars. I've noticed that on some cars, the temperature is pretty much steady at a constant point on the gauge no matter what the operating conditions are. On other cars, I notice the temperature can vary significantly depending on whether it's city driving or highway driving, or even on the ambient outside temperature.

What is the reason for this? Is it a design difference? Is it a gauge difference?

Some of the cars that I've owned (or still own) caused me to ponder this:

1995 E420 - temp fluctuates
1989 Corvette - temp fluctuates
1995 BMW 525ia - temp steady
1989 Mazda MPV 4wd - temp steady


Thanks,

Warren

__________________
2011 C300

Gone but not forgotten:

1995 E420
1990 500SL