How many S 430 drivers (typical age: 73
) would be disabling ESP? Virtually none, but the switch is there.....same for the Frankfurt taxi drivers with their E 220 CDIs.
I think the B is one of those cars, like the smart, which requires ESP to remain 100% predictable in extreme situations. That's OK by me.
As for handling, the Peugeot 405 I've been driving for the last 14+ years is the best handling FWD sedan ever made, so anything else seems a little less sharp to me. The B's handling/roadholding is good, for a car of its vocation. The 405's was exceptional.
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2008 Mercedes-Benz B 200
2005 smart fortwo cdi pulse cabriolet, loaded
1966 Peugeot 404 Coupé Injection
1989 Peugeot 405 DL, 366,000 km