Snow tires vs. 4matic: my unique experience and thoughts

[lorainfurniture]

A few days ago I was in a unique position where I was able to drive two very different cars around the same snow covered block.

First was my 93 300te 4matic equipped with like new (95%) all season tires.

Second was my 300e rear drive equipped with 4 new general altimax snow tires.

The conditions where great for the test, with the roads being completely covered with a few inches of snow. I found that the 4matic was absolutely fantastic while accelerating. Once the 4matic kicked in, it was like accelerating on dry pavement. 2 major drawbacks: you can't stop, and you can't turn.

The 300e was a bit lacking in the acceleration department, but would take a turn effortlessly and stopped on a dime.

I really had higher expectations for the 4matic, but as this car being my first awd car, I did not know what to expect. I think once I master the power slide in the 4matic, the turns should get much better.

Overall, I would have to say that the snow tires offered the best overall performance. While the 4matic's acceleration was breathtaking, It quickly turned to horror when I realized the car needed 2x the distance to stop than it needed to go.

Next year when I mount the snow tires on the 4matic, I will have the ultimate snow mobile.