W124 Sportline, real world experience?
Discussion
I know the theory, have the brochure, so as I understand it the basic package consisted of 10mm lower springs, wider tires a quicker rack and smaller steering wheel. The close ratio 5 speed box(direct top gear) and sports seats where options. Now in the real world does the handling package make much difference to a 300E auto?
http://www.classicwise.co.uk/cars/1991-mercedes-be...
http://www.classicwise.co.uk/cars/1991-mercedes-be...
Edited by W124Bob on Tuesday 12th August 19:34
My first car was a 230E with Sportline chassis (so just the steering wheel on the inside).
Also, last winter I completed the conversion of my E320 Coupe to full Sportline chassis from its previous harsh lower setup.
During my 230E ownership, I had over 1,000 miles of courtesy car usage in a standard sprung 230TE, where I could certainly tell the difference.
Sportline's steering felt sharper - although not exactly communicative, given the recirculating ball setup.
Roll was noticeably less between the two cars, too, so I could tell the thicker ARB was doing it's work (and with little-to-no disadvantages).
Steering was also sharper in E320 conversion, as was less roll.
TBH, ride didn't feel much harsher - the tyres aren't low profile and the springs still have enough travel, the shocks well rated for comfort.
Mechanical grip was noticeably better for the 230E campared with the 230TE (both wore the 15" alloys in the correct Sportline and non Sportline widths, with the correct different width tyres).
When the miles become a little higher, it's worth having the steering box checked for play, the front anti roll bar bushes checked, springs and dampers checked and ensure the alloys have some decent tyres - all these factors will of course affect the handling
While these aren't the last word in handling performance, I would recommend going for the Sportline if you occasionally drive enthusiastically.
If all you are after is a comfortable motorway cruiser, then seek a decent standard car
ETA: That linked car looks wonderful! Appears to be in a fantastic condition!
HTH
Darren
Also, last winter I completed the conversion of my E320 Coupe to full Sportline chassis from its previous harsh lower setup.
During my 230E ownership, I had over 1,000 miles of courtesy car usage in a standard sprung 230TE, where I could certainly tell the difference.
Sportline's steering felt sharper - although not exactly communicative, given the recirculating ball setup.
Roll was noticeably less between the two cars, too, so I could tell the thicker ARB was doing it's work (and with little-to-no disadvantages).
Steering was also sharper in E320 conversion, as was less roll.
TBH, ride didn't feel much harsher - the tyres aren't low profile and the springs still have enough travel, the shocks well rated for comfort.
Mechanical grip was noticeably better for the 230E campared with the 230TE (both wore the 15" alloys in the correct Sportline and non Sportline widths, with the correct different width tyres).
When the miles become a little higher, it's worth having the steering box checked for play, the front anti roll bar bushes checked, springs and dampers checked and ensure the alloys have some decent tyres - all these factors will of course affect the handling
While these aren't the last word in handling performance, I would recommend going for the Sportline if you occasionally drive enthusiastically.
If all you are after is a comfortable motorway cruiser, then seek a decent standard car
ETA: That linked car looks wonderful! Appears to be in a fantastic condition!
HTH
Darren
Edited by iluvmercs on Tuesday 12th August 20:24
I have had estates in both sportline and standard chassis spec and I have recently spent a bit of time driving a 300 CE-24 with a sportline chassis. There is a significant difference. The sportline cars are sharper and crisper with a lot less roll; there is some compromise in the ride (though they still ride nicely) and my old sportline estate used to exhibit a bit of roll-rock which irritated me.
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