4matic - Benzworld.org

shiraz · 09-01-2004, 10:53 AM

What is 4matic? This model was never available here in South Africa.

sosh · 09-01-2004, 11:26 AM

Its a 4 wheel drive system that is available in the US and some other places.

shiraz · 09-02-2004, 01:38 AM

Thanks Sosh

4maticinmedford · 09-03-2004, 02:59 PM

it is all-wheel drive, not 4 wheel drive.regular 4 wheel drive only powers the left front and right rear wheels, 4matic powers 35% front and 65% rear usually and also senses wheel slip and compensates accordingly. i haven't tried mine in the New England winter yet, I'll let you know in April if it worked or not....

E V12 Nerd · 09-03-2004, 07:05 PM

The reason they don't sell it in South Africa is because it's never snowy, so you don't need an AWD, because it would just add weight.

98MBE320 · 09-10-2004, 12:28 PM

I just bought a 1998 E320. The previous owner says it's a 4matic but there's no indication on the trunk or anywhere that I can see. How do I know for sure?

Thanks.

sosh · 09-10-2004, 02:47 PM

It usually says 4matic on the trunk deck, however I do vaguely remember that in some years it was not used and no markings were provided. Have a look under the car and see if it has a front differential. If so its 4matic (there is a rear one also

98MBE320 · 09-10-2004, 04:42 PM

I'll do that. Thank you.

4maticinmedford · 09-13-2004, 06:39 PM

the early 98 4 matics were delivered to dealerships without badging. this was the first ytear mercedes brought back the 4matic and it was such a disaster previously that they were at first afraid to be associated with it again. after half a year of selling them wit no problems though, they then started to badge them. your's is a 98 right ? i also have a 98 with 117k on it and I love it!