[texnteg]

saw an older E, w124 300E today. it had sportline badges on the front fenders and the trunklid. seemed to look like every other 300E i've seen. was this a suspension package of sorts? just curious.

 

[Greg in Oz]

Sportline

Sportline was MB's answer to AMG before they aquired AMG. Sportline versions were available from around 1989 until about 1995 (depending upon market) in the W124 (300E, CE, E320 etc) and W201 (190E) models. They differed from the standard versions by having stiffer springs, anti-roll bars and dampers and a lower ride height. Steering ratio was more direct (ie. faster steering) with a smaller diameter steering wheel. Steering wheel and shift knob were in leather and the shift knob had "Sportline" logo. The lower plastic panels behind the front wheel arches had "Sportline" badges (although some markets did not get these). The badge you mention on the rear was not standard. Wheels (15") were 7 inches wide (instead of 6.5" on the W124 and 6" on the W201) and were fitted with wider, low profile tyres (205/60 rather than 195/65 on the W124 and 205/55 rather than 185/65 on the W201). Seats were shaped with greater side support. In the W201 the seats were the same as those in the 190E 2.3-16 and 2.5-16 versions suitable for 4 occupants only. The rear deck spoiler of the 16 valve models was also an option on the 190E Sportline. Compared to the standard versions the Sportline versions are fairly rare. They offer superb handling at the sacrifice of a little comfort. For pics of my 190E Sportline see:
http://www.benzworld.org/forums/messages.asp?messno=49433&id=14&view=t