the aggressiveness was prob because of the way that generation of 4matics were implemented as the transfer box used hydraulics to engage as opposed to the later solenoids, but now they use wet multi-plate clutch i think. Also its probably the improvement of technology that brought along smoother engagements and more sensors with more powerful processing power to adapt. ML also is tuned for luxury drive and more of a soft-roader (as pointed out by the designer of the GLK). Getrag(sp?) Wagon and its offsprings are the off-road tuned SUV of Mercedes. The G's boxyness has its appeals.
"ML - Full-time all wheel drive with 3 open differentials. 4ETS electronic traction control, that applies brakes to wheel, that is about to spin, thus transferring torque to wheels, that have traction. M-Class 4ETS kicks in up to about 36 MPH (60 km/h) and if engagement conditions are maintained beyond 60 km/h during acceleration, control is effective to up to 48 MPH (80 km/h). Two-speed AWD variant of the Borg-Warner 44-06 transfer case. Button-operated low-range locks to 50/50 torque split. (2,64:1 low gear)" I would guess that the older ML uses the 3 open dif and the newer one uses the Borg-Warner one.
Still here, and my dad sorta wants to go with the slowest... is250 AWD. It does have a great interior but the exterior isnt too striking. Nor the engine as well. 0-60 in over 8.5 seconds! And the fuel economy is nothing to brag about either. The price and proven reliability of the car is thats swaying this decision. Now to convince him! BMW!! My personal fave!
tell him that the AWD system is prone to failage and it wont handle well! oh but on a very serious note, the dash will hit the front windshield in cold weather, some known issue and lexus just add a few screws in to try and hold it down. my GLK only does 0-60 in 6.7seconds with its 3.5L so dont fret, my boat is faster. =p the RS engines were win but i dont know about these ones on the other hand. My father had a RS200 (japanese IS200 back in the days) but he got rid of it after less than 1/2 year and got an Audi TT, the manual and riceness of the RS200 was too much for him lol, european manuals are more civil. So yeah tell your father, fun to drive factor is important and the 3 series has a bigger interior, I personally hit my head on the headliner in the IS's driver seat, thus i never tried the other seats.The car is just too small! I can even fit in my father's 3 cabrio's rear seats and NOT hit my head my on the roof.
Emile, you're wrong about that. I have years as a Collision Reconstructionist (I used to investigate traffic fatalities) to back me up. Tires are the most important thing. Traction is key. You can have 8 wheel drive and if the tires are just spinnning b/c they have no traction, you are screwed. Winter tires are the key. Of course the very best solution is to have winter tires AND AWD. Winter tires + RWD is a better combo than All Season and AWD.
I agree with Richy. AWD gives you additional advantage over RWD/FWD in snow, but that doesn't mean you can drive like a maniak...trust me on that...
Wasn't going to say anything but I roll in a impreza sti and I love it but I sense that Luke is looking for a little more of a luxury interior than the Subarus. Coming from german cars before my sti the interior of the Subaru is seriously lacking. My brother lives in upstate New York and his winter setup is a Subaru Forrester 2.5xt (turbo) on studded nokian tires and that thing is freaking unstoppable in the snow. I've never been in something that much fun on snow and ice short of a winter prepped rally car. So if you are looking for a serious winter performer above all else than look no further than Subaru.
Judging by your avatar you roll in an 08+ STi. I own an 04 JBP STi, here's a pic off of my iPhone. But yeah, Subaru is an ultimate winter machine. This will be my first winter in a Subaru, coming from FWD and e-braking, it'll be very good.
Yes, in Obsidian Black Pearl that has absurdly soft clear. Corrects easily but also swirls easily. Nice GD, looks like it is in excellent condition. You will have fun with it this winter I'm sure!
Thanks bro, I do need to do some detailing on it, with a machine of course, but first I got to learn. From what I hear Subaru clear is pretty damn soft. Probably not the easiest thing to begin to learn on... I can always get beater panels form random field cars I have lying around at my dad's work in the back lot. When I get the cash I'll be getting that new Flex, lots of pads, whatever compounds/polishes are best, and all the little goods. Doing it by hand just isn't cutting it anymore. But anywho, getting a little off topic...LOL.
offtopic +1 but yeah japanese car paint is pretty soft in general, i think nissan are softer than most. anyhow I believe luke's father doesnt want a subby lol
The is250 is way slow... Trying to talk him into the is350 and get some snow tires, rather than the BMW with just all seasons or conti DWS. Frankly the is350 is around the same price and actually cheaper than a 328xi. Which is a good thing! As bang for buck the is wins! More tech, nicer interior and things you deal with daily, while the BMW has great handling, a smooth engine, but lacks that interior and tech offered in the lexus. I think this calls for another test drive... this time the is350.
is350 has AWD for this year i think but you'll be buying new. IS is quite a female orientated car tho i must say, if i had to buy a lexus, id buy the GS
No, it would be used. And yes... its not a very manly car, at all. The GS is nicer, larger and more upscale but it too isnt cheap. I guess he still has some thinking. The GS does seem nice though with its roomy cabin.
For Subaru's I'd skip the rotary altogether. Get yourself a PC7424 or Griots version. Couple either machine with B&S Yellow and Green pads and Menz Power Finish and you're golden.
Might just buy two machines then. I will be detailing other vehicles because I know I'll have buddies who will want the work done.
