Mercedes-Benz B-Class

Mercedes-Benz B-Class

Manufacturer	Mercedes-Benz
Parent company	DaimlerChrysler (2005-07) Daimler AG (2008-present)
Production	2005-present
Assembly	Rastatt, Germany Juarez, Mexico
Class	Compact MPV
Body style(s)	4-door estate
Layout	FF layout
Platform	Mercedes-Benz W245
Engine(s)	2.0L 134 hp I4
Transmission(s)	5-speed manual 6-speed manual CVT
Wheelbase	2006-08: 109.7 in (2786 mm) 2009-: 109.4 in (2779 mm)
Length	168.1 in (4270 mm) 2009- Base: 168.2 in (4272 mm)
Width	70.0 in (1778 mm)
Height	2006-08: 63.5 in (1613 mm) 2009-: 63.1 in (1603 mm)
Related	Mercedes-Benz A-Class

The Mercedes-Benz B-Class (codename W245) is a compact MPV introduced by German automaker Mercedes-Benz in March 2005. It is essentially an enlarged A-Class keeping the same engine and suspension system. Like the A-Class, the B-Class is a front wheel drive vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz describes this vehicle as a Compact Sports Tourer instead of hatchback or multi-purpose vehicle, like its R-Class model, which is called a Grand Sports Tourer.

It was released in Europe in the late spring of 2005 and in Canada in the autumn of 2005. Plans to import the car to the US through Mexico were put on hold due to a strong euro.

Design

Keeping in mind its United States' market in comparison with the A-Class and indeed emulating the R-Class, the aspect of the B-Class was stylized from the back to the nose. Some of the tiny stylistic details of the Baby-Benz (popular name of the A-Class) were removed. In particular, the front of the vehicle was lengthened (although maintaining the Sandwich anti-crash system).

Sandwich floor concept

The B-Class W245 maintains the sandwich floor concept.

The powertrain (engine and transmission) moves beneath the passenger cell (located at high seating position) in the event of a big frontal impact. According to a study : "the front section of the A-Class would have to be considerably longer in order to offer the same impressive level of occupant safety in the event of a heavy frontal impact".

These are two innovations, patented by Mercedes-Benz as:

1. DE 43 26 396 C 2: motor car with drive unit tilted at an acute angle against the horizontal
2. DE 44 00 132 C1: Firewall construction for a motor car with front-mounted drive unit

As a secondary benefit, because the seats have been raised by 20 cm, the passengers are taken away from the more common area of lateral impact in accidents.

Driving assistants

Pre-facelift B-Class 170

The B-Class presents a wide interior, basically due to the Sandwich floor.

The multifunction steering wheel (standard feature) allows the driver to use his/her thumbs to control the radio, telephone and other systems. There are power assisted steering (standard feature) aids in the control of the automobile, varying according to the speed.

The COMAND APS is a system where Route instructions are given to the navigation system, and the information is provided via SMS. The car radio, DVD and telephone controls are combined into a single unit with a 6.5 inch screen. The options are: standard Audio 20 radio/single CD, Audio 50 APS or COMAND APS.

Parktronic emits warning tones and uses multiple LEDs to indicate how far the car is from an obstacle.

W245 defines the Light & Sight package with several benefits:

• Bi-xenon HID headlamps (optional feature) with gas-discharge bulbs for the dipped beam
• Cornering lights (standard feature) where the main-beam dips at road junctions and tight corners
• Active light system (standard feature) where the beams follows the steering movements
• Headlamp Assist (standard feature) is a sensor on the windscreen monitoring ambient light levels to automatically switch on the headlamps as required
• Rain sensor (standard feature) smoothly adjusts the wiper speed, depending on the intensity of the rainfall.

As a standard addition, when entering a tunnel or an underground garage, the Tunnel Mode closes all windows and the panoramic sliding sunroof.

Inside comfort

The multicontour seat (optional feature) is composed of a set of small air cushions individually adjusted to the driver's body, as he/she wishes.

Air conditioning

The W245 units have a powerful car air conditioning system, with separate temperature adjustment for driver and front passenger.

Standard CDI models include a Heater Booster System (standard on CDI models) that instantly floods the interior of the B-Class with hot air. The most advanced system is the Thermotronic (optional feature) that maintains and regulates the temperature in accordance with a sophisticated set of sensors which measure temperature, sunlight, humidity and even pollutant levels in the ambient air, causing all openings to close automatically.

Sunroof

The new optional sunroof is divided in small panels that can be displaced individually. Each one can be controlled separately to selectively administer the shades inside the W245.

Safety

High-strength and ultra-high-strength steel alloys are combined with high-strength bonded joints.

Airbags

The B-Class has several airbags. The front airbag is adaptive with two-stage gas generators (standard feature), where the system evaluates the severity of the accident. The B-Class also includes side airbags for head and thorax (standard for driver and front passenger).

Two other additions are optional: Rear Sidebags (optional feature) for side-on collisions in the back seats and Windowbags: large airbags expanding like a curtain from A- to C-pillars in side-on collisions.

Belts

The belt system of the B-Class W245 is simply surprising. The Adaptive Function (standard feature for driver and front passenger) adapts the force exerted by the belt, relaxing dynamically during the collision. On the contrary, the Tensioners (standard feature) continuously adjust to remove any possible slack, and increase the tightness if necessary. The driver has a report if all the belts are buckled (standard feature).

Head and neck

Lastly, the active head restraints (standard feature) respond actively to a collision, assuring even more protection.

Other standard features

While driving there is the Acceleration-Skid Control (ASR) (standard feature) and Electronic Stability Program ESP (standard feature) that reduce the risk of skidding. There are disc brakes on all four wheels, and emergency stops are improved with the Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Brake Assist (BAS), standard on the Mercedes Benz A-Class. BAS detects emergency braking (most drivers apply the brakes quickly but without enough pressure) and exerts maximum brake pressure.

Making room

To make more room for transporting goods, it is possible to fold the seats forward and then level them at two different heights. They provide different final modular space combinations.

Its implementation is provided by two systems:

1. Easy-Vario: Both rear-seat cushion sections are folded forward, while the luggage compartment floor can be set to one of two different heights. (Optional feature)
2. Easy-Vario-Plus: Both rear-seat cushion and the front passenger seat are folded forward. This increases the load capacity to as much as 1995 litres. (Optional feature)

Engines

The Mercedes Benz B-Class W245 has six engines: four of them are petrol (B150, B170, B200, B200Turbo), and two are diesel (B180 CDI, B200 CDI). All the six powerplants are four-cylinder.

The B200 Turbo reaches 193 hp and 280 Nm of torque. It sprints from standstill to 100 km/h (60 mph) in 7.6 seconds, and has a top speed of 230 km/h (140 mph).

The B200 CDI reaches 140 hp and 300 Nm of torque. The newly developed direct-injection CDI diesel units have a common-rail direct injection (standard on CDI models).

All the engines meet the Euro IV emissions regulation, and a particulate filter system is available as an option for the diesel units (this reduces about 99% of the particle emissions, without the need for additives).

Gearboxes

The B-Class is available with five and six-speed manual transmissions. The six-speed gearbox is the standard on B180 CDI, B200 CDI and B200 Turbo.

As an option there is an Autotronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in which the ratios are changed continuously by means of a pulley-wheel variator and a steel thrust belt. This allows the car to accelerate with no interruption of tractive power and attains the maximum output more quickly. This is adjustable according to driving style: economical or sporty.

Wheel axles

The B-Class is a front-wheel drive car.

In the W245 the dynamic handling was powered in precision tracking and anti-roll support, with the Parabolic Rear Axle (standard feature) that grants a pivotal role in the driving. The car has a Selective Damping System (standard feature), where the shock absorber forces are administered differentially, in example under normal conditions (soft absorption) and while cornering at speed (full damping force).

The W245 presents light alloy wheels. With the run-flat feature (continuous mobility or zero-pressure tyres can be driven at normal speeds). There is Tirefit tyre sealant and a tire-pressure-loss warning device by ESP technology (standard feature).

2008 B-Class facelift

2008 Mercedes-Benz B-Class (North America)

Mercedes-Benz has recently released a refreshed-look B-Class alongside a refreshed-look A-Class and M-Class.

The newer B-Class has a restyled hood, front bumper, rear tail lamps, side exterior mirrors and is now available in the B170 NGT Blue Efficient. The B170 NGT Blue Efficient can run on either gas or petrol, and when full, can cover up to 1,000 kilometres (620 mi).

The new B-Class is now available with new upholsteries and trims.

Specifications

Specification	B180 CDI	B200 CDI	B150	B170	B200	B200 Turbo	B170 NGT FuelEfficiency
length	4,270 mm (168.1 in)	4,270 mm (168.1 in)	4,270 mm (168.1 in)	4,270 mm (168.1 in)	4,270 mm (168.1 in)	4,270 mm (168.1 in)	4,270 mm (168.1 in)
width	1,777 mm (70.0 in)	1,777 mm (70.0 in)	1,777 mm (70.0 in)	1,777 mm (70.0 in)	1,777 mm (70.0 in)	1,777 mm (70.0 in)	1,777 mm (70.0 in)
height	1,603 mm (63.1 in)	1,603 mm (63.1 in)	1,603 mm (63.1 in)	1,603 mm (63.1 in)	1,603 mm (63.1 in)	1,603 mm (63.1 in)	1,603 mm (63.1 in)
wheelbase	2,778 mm (109.4 in)	2,778 mm (109.4 in)	2,778 mm (109.4 in)	2,778 mm (109.4 in)	2,778 mm (109.4 in)	2,778 mm (109.4 in)	2,778 mm (109.4 in)
Kerb weight	1,435 kg (3,164 lb)	1,435 kg (3,164 lb)	1,300 kg (2,866 lb)	1,310 kg (2,888 lb)	1,345 kg (2,965 lb)	1,370 kg (3,020 lb)	Unknown
tank capacity	54 L (14 US gal/12 imp gal)	54 L (14 US gal/12 imp gal)	54 L (14 US gal/12 imp gal)	54 L (14 US gal/12 imp gal)	54 L (14 US gal/12 imp gal)	54 L (14 US gal/12 imp gal)	Unknown
tank reserve	6 L (2 US gal/1 imp gal)	6 L (2 US gal/1 imp gal)	6 L (2 US gal/1 imp gal)	6 L (2 US gal/1 imp gal)	6 L (2 US gal/1 imp gal)	6 L (2 US gal/1 imp gal)	Unknown
Cylinders	4/in-line	4/in-line	4/in-line	4/in-line	4/in-line	4/in-line	Unknown
Output hp/rpm	109 hp (81 kW/111 PS) /4200	140 hp (104 kW/142 PS) /4200	106 hp (79 kW/107 PS) /5800	116 hp (87 kW/118 PS) /5500	136 hp (101 kW/138 PS) /5750	193 hp (144 kW/196 PS) /5000	116 hp (87 kW/118 PS)
Torque Nm/rpm	250 N·m (184 lb·ft) /1600-2600	300 N·m (221 lb·ft) /1600-3000	160 N·m (118 lb·ft) /4000-4500	155 N·m (114 lb·ft) /3500-4000	185 N·m (136 lb·ft) /3500-4000	280 N·m (207 lb·ft) /1800-4850	Unknown
Top Speed	183 km/h (114 mph)	200 km/h (124 mph)	185 km/h (115 mph)	183 km/h (114 mph)	196 km/h (122 mph)	225 km/h (140 mph)	Unknown
Tires	205/55 R 16	205/55 R 16	195/65 R 15	195/65 R 15	205/55 R 16	215/40 R 18	195/65 R 15

Mercedes-Benz Axor

A 2005 model Mercedes Benz Axor in Exeter

The Axor is a truck manufactured by Mercedes-Benz designed to fill the gap between the premium Actros tractors and the mostly rigid Atego trucks and was targeted at fleet customers.

The truck is relatively simple, with manual gearshift as opposed to the electronic paddle shift on the Actros. The Axor is powered by a 12 litre straight 6 engine.

2005

Originally the Axor was only available as a tractor but with the 2005 facelift, former Atego models over 18t are now part of the Axor Range.

Mercedes-Benz Atego

Mercedes Benz Atego

The Mercedes-Benz Atego is a light rigid truck introduced by Mercedes-Benz in 1997.

It is available in weights of 7.5 to 26 metric tonnes (t) and is powered by a straight 4 or 6 cylinder engine. Originally all straight engined rigids by Mercedes were marketed as Atego but from the 2005 facelift Atego models over 18 t were renamed Mercedes-Benz Axor.

The designation is 970.

Race versions of the trucks are simply called Mercedes-Benz Race Truck, built by LARAG in the East Swiss canton St. Gallen. The race trucks have competed in ADAC Truck Grand Prix and NRW Truck Cup.

Electric version

The company is conducting large-scale fleet tests with the Mercedes-Benz Atego BlueTec Hybrid delivery truck of 7.5 and 12 tons GVW, used to deliver mail in Germany.

Mercedes-Benz Actros

A Mercedes-Benz Actros truck in Poland

Mercedes-Benz Actros

The Mercedes-Benz Actros is a heavy duty truck introduced by Mercedes-Benz in 1996. It is normally used for long-distance haulage, heavy duty distribution haulage and construction haulage. It is available in weights of 18 to 250 tonnes and is powered by a V6 or V8 cylinder engine with turbo and intercooler. Mercedes-Benz launched Actros II in 2002.

Gearbox

The second Actros generation comes with an electronic sequential gearbox that Mercedes-Benz has dubbed the "Telligent Gearbox". It pushes forward the principle used in some earlier Mercedes-Benz tractors -- using the gearshift lever to command a pneumatically actuated system that changes the gears. The Telligent gearbox utilizes a computer, together with a load-sensing system on the fifth-wheel coupling, to estimate the proper gear that the truck must be in. For example, if you want to upshift, the computer estimates the load on the tractor and the current engine mode, and gives you the proper gear for decreasing engine RPM. On the other hand, if you want to downshift, the computer assumes you wish to overtake, and gives you a proper gear for acceleration.

There's an automatic version, which works like the Tiptronic system found in Mercedes-Benz cars.

Operation

The system consists of a small lever mounted under the right armrest and a flat switch underneath. The lever is slightly tilted, so that it matches the natural curve of the driver's hand when it's on teh armrest. The lever has two buttons on either side. When at a standstill, the driver must push the left button, then (while holding it), push the lever forward and release it. This always selects second fast. Then the driver could push the lever forward once again to select fourth fast. The current gear is shown as a large number on the main display. After doing this, the driver steps on the clutch pedal and waits for approximately two seconds. After the gearshift has completed, a double click is sounded through the speakers, and the driver proceeds with pulling off as normal.

Once moving, the driver has two choices. He or she may push or pull the lever to let the computer choose the gear for them, or they can use the splitter switch (the small switch under the lever) to pre-select gears. Either way, the gear is selected first, then the clutch is depressed. For example, if you're in fourth fast, pulling the splitter switch up once pre-selects fifth slow.

The right button (known as the 'flush button', as it is flush with the lever) is used to switch to neutral.

Advantages

Since the driver does not directly operate on the gearbox, it significantly reduces the wear and tear on the gearbox itself. The gearbox is fully synchronized, and in some models the computer would even blip the throttle for you for a smoother downshift. Also, it's great for novice drivers, who are not sure of the proper gear.

Drawbacks

The computer rarely estimates the steepness of the road. When driving on extremely steep roads, or under winter conditions, it's better to use the manual pre-selection (by using the splitter switch) instead of letting the computer do the job.

Also, the Actros has been designed as a highway tractor. However, even highway tractors have to drive through cities at times. The two-second delay could be very unpleasant when having to pull out of a stoplight. Also, this two-second delay is practically dangerous when overtaking. A driver would slam their manually-controlled gearbox in a lower gear for less than a second, in order to get acceleration. Whereas failing to do this at a stoplight simply slows down other traffic, when overtaking it could leave you in the opposite lane with no power.

Another safety consideration is the situation when the brakes and/or retarder have failed during a long descend. With a manually-controlled gearbox the driver would be able to downshift no matter the grinding, whereas the Telligent would not allow the downshift, thus leaving the truck coasting down.

Also, in an automatic version overtaking is nearly impossible, as the gearbox switches up as soon as the engine goes past the redline, thus slowing down acceleration.

Cab

The cab of the Actros is built with consideration of the driver. It provides silent, smooth and pleasant ride. Pneumatic suspension of both the cab and the tractor itself makes for a really smooth feeling even on the roughest road. The high-roof sleeper version provides two bunks (the upper one not usable while driving, as the seats must be folded). The upper bunk is somewhat wider, but all the controls (radio, windows, auxiliary heater, etc.) are available from the lower bunk. However, most of the controls one would need (auxiliary heater, sunroof, etc.) while resting doubled overhead of the driver, and the width of the upper bunk allows for a person to use them by merely stretching their hand.

The auxiliary heater can be programmed to turn on, for example, 30 minutes before the driver enters the truck, so in the winter a driver would be able to enter a warm cab instead of waiting for it to warm up.

There are large storage spaces, especially in the MegaSpace cab. Additional storage spaces are available under the lower bunk. In some cab types there are boxes behind the doors, that open from the inside, but are accessible on the outside - for storing tools, lashing belts, ratchets, etc.

The driver seat is a fully adjustable Grammer pneumatically suspended seat, and the passenger seat only allows for backrest adjustment. The steering wheel is fully adjustable as well, and allows the driver to control functions of the on-board computer as well as the built-in radio/CD player.

The cab has excellent sound isolation and provides almost car-like noise-levels.

The Actros cabs come in three types:

• S - designed for daily operation and construction vehicles such as cement trucks. The daily cab has its front bumper lower to the ground to prevent under-run, whereas the construction version of the S cab has its front bumper higher to prevent hitting an obstacle when driving off-road on the site.
• M - designed for distribution vehicles. It offers a sleeper, though comfort has not been focused on as in the L cab. It comes in short and long sleeper versions.
• L - Low-roof long-haul cab, providing comfortable driving and rest for the driver.
• LH "MegaSpace"- Long-haul high-roof cab, providing comfort for long driving, as well as enough space for the driver and/or passenger to freely move around the cab when needed.

Electronics

The Actros comes with ASR and ABS as a standard. Also, it has load-sensing compatibility with most of the modern trailers. On the versions equipped with a digital tachograph, basic information (like current driver's working hours) are displayed on the main display. The computer's interface is very intuitive, and it is fully controllable from the steering wheel.

There is a wide range of other electronic features, offered as extras. These include lane assist (warns the driver if they inadvertently leave their lane), distance measuring radar (which engages the brakes if the vehicle in front suddenly stops), side looking radar for warning the driver about a vehicle in their blind spot, and many more, mostly oriented towards safety. All of them are marketed as "Telligent".

Problems with electronics

In some cases, when the electronics of the trailer (especially the ABS sensors in the wheels) get wet, the brake pedal would not operate as normal, and even the slightest touch would result in a wheel-lock. There are problems with the calculation of the mileage available for the remaining fuel. Cases have been reported when the fuel has run out with the computer showing 25 more miles to go. Also, the statistics of average speed and fuel consumption are prone to failure when driving a digital tachograph truck without a driver card.

Variants

Actros Armoured Heavy Support Vehicle System (AHSVS) is a military armoured truck (86 ordered by Canadian Forces Land Force Command in 2007) using the civilian Actros platform with a protected cab developed by Land Mobility Technologies in South Africa for Mercedes-Benz.

Gallery

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Manufacturer	Mercedes-Benz
Parent company	Daimler-Benz DaimlerChrysler AG (from 1998) Daimler AG (from 2007)
Production	1997–present
Class	Subcompact car
Layout	FF layout
Related	Mercedes-Benz B-Class

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a subcompact car produced by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz. The first generation (W168) was introduced in 1997 and a redesign (W169) appeared in 2004. It is available as a three or five-door hatchback. It is Mercedes entry level model.

History

W168

Mercedes-Benz A-Class W168

Production	1997–2004
Body style(s)	5-door hatchback
Layout	FF layout

Production of the W168 A-Class began in 1997. It was also the first front wheel drive passenger car from Mercedes-Benz. Its front engine, front wheel drive layout was quite unusual for Mercedes. To date, about 1.6 million units have been sold worldwide.

One innovation of the W168 was a frontal-impact absorption system called the "Sandwich" (see patents DE4326 9 and DE4400132 in the name of Mercedes-Benz). In the event of a violent frontal impact, the engine and transmission would slide underneath the floor below the pedals rather than entering the passenger compartment.

The W168 became infamous in 1997 after flipping over during the traditional "moose test" performed by the Swedish automobile publication Teknikens Värld. According to the report, the W168 overturned when maneuvering to avoid the "moose". Mercedes initially denied the problem, but then took the surprising step of recalling all units sold to date (2,600) and suspending distribution until the problem was solved by adding electronic stability control and modifying the suspension. This marked the world première of stability control in a small car.

Specifications

W168

Specification	A160 CDI (1998-2000)	A160 CDI (2000)	A170 CDI (1998-2000)	A170 CDI (2000)	A140	A160	A190 (2000)	A210 Evo (2000)
Rated Output	44 kW (60 PS/59 hp)	55 kW (75 PS/74 hp)	66 kW (90 PS/89 hp)	70 kW (95 PS/94 hp)	60 kW (82 PS/80 hp)	75 kW (102 PS/101 hp)	92 kW (125 PS/123 hp)	103 kW (140 PS/138 hp)
Motor	1.7L Diesel	1.7L Diesel	1.7L Diesel	1.7L Diesel	1.4L Petrol	1.6L Petrol	1.9L Petrol	2.1L Petrol

W169 features

Mercedes-Benz A-Class W169

Production	2004–present
Body style(s)	5-door hatchback 3-door hatchback
Layout	FF layout

Driving assistance

The car is designed according to Mercedes-Benz concept of 'Touch And Feel' (TAF).

The multi-function steering wheel places controls for the radio, telephone, and other systems conveniently within reach of the thumbs of the driver. Power steering (standard feature) aids control of the automobile, with its behaviour varying according to the vehicle's speed.

The Mercedes COMAND APS is a navigation system which provides directions via GPS. The radio unit also provides DVD and telephone functionality, with various versions available (standard Audio 20 radio/single CD, Audio 50 APS or COMAND APS).

The Parktronic system provides audio and visual signals to indicate how far the car is from an obstacle.

The A-class optionally includes a "Light & Sight" package which includes bi-xenon HID headlamps with gas-discharge bulbs; cornering lights (main-beam headlamps at road junctions and tight corners); "Headlamp Assist, which automatically turns on the lights when needed; and a rain sensor that adjusts wiper speed depending on rainfall intensity.

As a standard feature, when entering a tunnel or an underground garage the car goes into "tunnel mode", where all windows and the panoramic sliding sunroof are closed.

Temperature control

The standard temperature control system has separate temperature settings for driver and front passenger sides, and includes a "Heater Booster System" that can flood the interior of the car with hot air.

The optional Themotronic system maintains and regulates the temperature in accordance with a set of sensors that measure temperature, sunlight, humidity and pollutant levels in the ambient air.

Safety

A number of new features were made available in the W169 model.

The biggest was the immediate fitment of a newly invented device, Electronic Stability Control. ESP is standard on every Mercedes-Benz (produced after 1999).

The car is constructed with high-strength steel alloys with bonded joints. It has a large number of airbags including optional rear side airbags (for side-impacts in the backseats), optional side-curtain airbags, and standard head and thorax-protection side airbags. The front airbags are adaptive with two-stage gas generators operating according to the severity of accident.

The force exerted by the seat belt system during a collision adapts dynamically depending upon the collision characteristics. The 'active' head restraints (standard for driver and front passenger) give enhanced protection from neck injury, especially during rear collisions.

The angle of the A-pillar is flatter than the windshield angle.

Facelifted A-Class W169

Passenger and cargo space

The cargo capacity of the W169 was increased by 15 percent compared with the W168. The seats can be moved and configured in various ways:

• EASY-ENTRY: Front seats slides forwards with the backrest folded forwards to afford the rear seat passengers more room for getting in and out. (standard on three-door)
• EASY-VARIO: Both rear-seat cushion sections are folded forward, while the luggage compartment floor can be set to one of two different heights. (standard on five-door; optional on three-door)
• EASY-VARIO-PLUS: Both rear-seat cushion and the front passenger seat are folded forward. Increases load capacity to as much as 1995 litres. (optional on five-door)

Engine and drive system

Seven types of motors are available: four petrol (gasoline) (A150, A170, A200, A200Turbo) and three diesel (160CDI, 180CDI, 200CDI), all being four-cylinder and partnered with either 5 or 6-speed gearboxes. A continuously variable transmission system called "Autotronic Constantly Variable Transmission" (CVT) is an optional feature.

The petrol A200 Turbo provides 193 hp (144 kW) and 280 N·m (207 lb·ft) of torque (rotational force); the diesel A200 CDI has 140 hp (104 kW) and 300 N·m (221 lb·ft).

It is estimated that the W169 engines provide a 40% increase in power and a 10% decrease in fuel consumption compared to W168 engines.

The most powerful model can take the car from a standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.0 seconds, and has a top speed of 227 km/h (141 mph).

The newly developed direct-injection CDI diesel units use a common-rail direct injection system that improves fuel consumption and reduces exhaust emissions and noise levels.

All the engines meet the tight EU4 emissions limits. A particulate filter system is available as an option for the diesel units which reduces the particulate emissions by about 99% without the need for additives.

The A-Class is a front wheel drive car and features traction control (ASR) as standard, as well as electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes (ABS).

Handling is improved by precision tracking and anti-roll support, and by a Parabolic Rear Axle.

A "Selective Damping System", in which the shock absorber forces respond differently according to conditions, is standard. For example, under normal conditions it operates at soft absorption; while cornering at speed it changes to full damping force.

The W169 optionally comes with light-alloy wheels, with a run-flat feature, Tirefit tire sealant and a tire-pressure-loss warning device.

Tire sizes are:

• 185/65 R 15 with wheel trim (classic model)
• 185/65 R 15 light-alloy wheels (elegance model)
• 195/55 R 16 light-alloy wheels (avantgarde model)

2009 A-Class revision

The 2009 A-Class features redesigned front and rear bumpers, new tail lamps and headlights, new grille, new exterior mirrors, a restyled interior design and new upholsteries and colors. The 2009 A-Class was released alongside the refreshed 2009 M-Class and B-Class. The car is also available with Active Park Assist, which enables the car to parallel park itself, with throttle and brake input still required from the driver.

Facelifted A-Class W169

Initial advertising campaign for the W169

A four-day, seven-country tour which officially introduced the car culminated in an event in Milan, in the Castello Sforzesco, where all the touring units were received by a myriad of European personalities from music, fashion, sport and movies. Armani presented a fashion show and Christina Aguilera did a live performance of her song "Hello", composed exclusively for the occasion.

The W169 advertising campaign included television spots with Christina Aguilera, Giorgio Armani and Boris Becker.

Electric versions

The "e-mobility Berlin" project will see Daimler deploy a fleet of over 100 second-generation Smart ED and Mercedes A-Class cars powered by lithium ion batteries .

Production

Sales of the W169 were targeted at 50,000 units in 2004. Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Mercedes Car Group, said that target had been reached even before vehicles arrived in dealer showrooms.

DaimlerChrysler invested EUR 900 million in developing the Rastatt plant where the A-Class is produced, and created 1600 new jobs (for a total of 4700). A further 600 people work on the industrial estate at the plant site.

In 1999, Mercedes Benz opened, in Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais (Brazil), its first factory in South America dedicated to passenger cars, with an investment of USD 840 million and 10,000 employees. The factory initially produced A-Class and C-Class models, assembling them from pieces manufactured in Germany. The target for the cars was regional markets (from Argentina to Mexico) with modifications made to the cars to suit local conditions, like a protection for the motor base for the mostly poor roads in South America. In 2005 the factory stopped production of A-Class cars.

Profitability and impact on the Mercedes-Benz brand

Mercedes-Benz has made a number of confusing announcements - first that a "weak Euro" could have produce costs problems and later that the "fall of the Dollar" will cause the enterprise to not be profitable .

According to some analyses, Mercedes-Benz considers the creation of the A-Class to have reduced its prestige in Europe, and the company has concentrated its efforts on its larger and more profitable vehicle lines.

W169

Specification	A160 CDI	A180 CDI	A200 CDI	A150	A170	A200 turbo
Length	3,838 mm (151.1 in)	3,838 mm (151.1 in)	3,838 mm (151.1 in)	3,838 mm (151.1 in)	3,838 mm (151.1 in)	3,838 mm (151.1 in)
Width	1,764 mm (69.4 in)	1,764 mm (69.4 in)	1,764 mm (69.4 in)	1,764 mm (69.4 in)	1,764 mm (69.4 in)	1,764 mm (69.4 in)
Height	1,593 mm (62.7 in)	1,593 mm (62.7 in)	1,595 mm (62.8 in)	1,593 mm (62.7 in)	1,593 mm (62.7 in)	1,595 mm (62.8 in)
Wheelbase	2,568 mm (101.1 in)	2,568 mm (101.1 in)	2,568 mm (101.1 in)	2,568 mm (101.1 in)	2,568 mm (101.1 in)	2,568 mm (101.1 in)
Luggage (l)	435-1995	435-1995	435-1995	435-1995	435-1995	435-1995
(3 doors)	435-1485	435-1485	435-1485	435-1485	435-1485	435-1485
Empty weight (5-doors)	1,325 kg (2,921 lb)	1,345 kg (2,965 lb)	1,365 kg (3,009 lb)	1,225 kg (2,701 lb)	1,240 kg (2,734 lb)	1,305 kg (2,877 lb)
(3 doors)	1,300 kg (2,866 lb)	1,320 kg (2,910 lb)	1,340 kg (2,954 lb)	1,195 kg (2,635 lb)	1,210 kg (2,668 lb)	1,275 kg (2,811 lb)
Tank Capacity	54 L (14.3 US gal/11.9 imp gal)	54 L (14.3 US gal/11.9 imp gal)	54 L (14.3 US gal/11.9 imp gal)	54 L (14.3 US gal/11.9 imp gal)	54 L (14.3 US gal/11.9 imp gal)	54 L (14.3 US gal/11.9 imp gal)
Tank Reserve	6 L (1.6 US gal/1.3 imp gal)	6 L (1.6 US gal/1.3 imp gal)	6 L (1.6 US gal/1.3 imp gal)	6 L (1.6 US gal/1.3 imp gal)	6 L (1.6 US gal/1.3 imp gal)	6 L (1.6 US gal/1.3 imp gal)
Cylinders	4/in-line 4-valv/cyl	4/in-line 4-valv/cyl	4/in-line 4-valv/cyl	4/in-line 2-valv/cyl	4/in-line 2-valv/cyl	4/in-line 2-valv/cyl
Displacement cc	1991	1991	1991	1498	1699	2034
Motor	2.0L Diesel	2.0L Diesel	2.0L Diesel	1.5L Petrol	1.7L Petrol	Petrol
Fuel per 100 km	4.9L	5.2L	5.4L	6.2L	6.6L	7.2L
Rated Output kW/hp (rpm)	60/82 (4200)	80/109 (4200)	103/140 (4200)	70/95 (5200)	85/116 (5500)	142/193 (4850)
Rated Torque	180 N·m (130 ft·lbf) (1400-2600)	250 N·m (180 ft·lbf) (1600-2600)	300 N·m (220 ft·lbf) (1600-2600)	140 N·m (100 ft·lbf) (3500-4000)	155 N·m (114 ft·lbf) (3500-4000)	280 N·m (210 ft·lbf) (1800-4850)
Acceleration 0-100 km/h (sec)	15.0	10.8	9.5	12.6	10.9	8.0
Top Speed km/h	170 km/h (110 mph)	186 km/h (116 mph)	201 km/h (125 mph)	175 km/h (109 mph)	188 km/h (117 mph)	227 km/h (141 mph)
Transmission	5-speed manual	6-speed manual	6-speed manual	5-speed manual	5-speed manual	6-speed manual
Wheels	6j x 15	6j x 15	6j x 16	6j x 15	6j x 15	6j x 16
Tires	185/65R15	185/65R15	195/55R16	185/65R15	185/65R15	195/55R16

W168 vs. W169

Specification	W169 (5 door)	W168 (standard)
length	3,838 mm (151.1 in)	3,606 mm (142.0 in)
width	1,764 mm (69.4 in)	1,719 mm (67.7 in)
height	1,593 mm (62.7 in)	1,587 mm (62.5 in)
wheelbase	2,568 mm (101.1 in)	2,423 mm (95.4 in)
VDA boot capacity L	435-1370	390-1190

Mercedes-Benz 770

The Mercedes-Benz 770, also known as the Großer Mercedes (large Mercedes) was a luxury automobile built by Mercedes-Benz from 1930 to 1943. It is probably best known from archival footage of high-ranking Nazi officials before and during World War II, including Adolf Hitler and Hermann Goering.

Series I - W07 (1930-1938)

1932 Mercedes-Benz 770 (Model W07) "Grosser" cabriolet used by Wilhelm II in exile

The 770 was introduced with the internal code W07 in 1930. These cars were mainly used by governments as state vehicles.

The W07 version of the 770 was powered by an inline eight cylinder engine of 7655 cc (467 cu in) capacity with overhead valves and aluminium pistons.This engine produced 150 brake horsepower (110 kW) at 2800 rpm without supercharging. An optional Roots type supercharger, which was engaged at full throttle, would raise the output to 200 brake horsepower (150 kW) at 2800 rpm, which could propel the car to 160 km/h (100 mph). The transmission had four forward ratios, of which third was direct and fourth was an overdrive.

The W07 had a contemporary boxed chassis suspended by semi-elliptic leaf springs onto beam axles front and rear. Dimensions would vary with coachwork, but the chassis had a wheelbase of 3,750 mm (147.6 in) and a front track equal to the rear track of 1,500 mm (59.1 in).

117 W07-series cars were built.

Series II - W150 (1938-1943)

Mercedes-Benz 770 (W150) saloon car

The 770 was substantially revised in 1938, resulting in the new internal designation of W150.The all-new chassis was made with oval section tubes and was suspended from coil springs all around, with independent suspension at front and a de Dion axle at the rear.

The engine had the same basic architecture as that of the W07, but it had been tuned to produce 155 brake horsepower (116 kW) at 3000 rpm without supercharging and 230 brake horsepower (170 kW) at 3200 rpm with. The transmission now had five forward ratios with a direct fourth gear and an overdrive fifth.

88 W150-series cars were built before production ended in 1943.

Gustaf Mannerheim's 770K

Of note in popular culture is the 770K originally owned by Marshal of Finland Gustav Mannerheim. Mannerheim's 770K was sold to an American collector after World War II. It was featured in the motion picture The Desert Fox: The Story of Rommel as Hitler's parade car.

In 1973, Mannerheim's 770K, erroneously alleged to have been the parade limousine of Adolf Hitler, was sold at auction for $153,000, the most money ever paid for a car at auction at that time. This broke the previous record price for an antique car, which was $90,000 for Greta Garbo's Duesenberg in the fall of 1972. Mannerheim's car passed that amount within its first minute on the auction block. It was sold to Earl Clark, a businessman from Lancaster, Pa, who wanted the car for a park called Dutch Wonderland. Another 770 sold at the same auction sold for $93,000. Billy C. Tanner, an Alabama developer and George Wallace's 1964 campaign manager, bought it, but he could not secure financing to complete the transaction. Consequently, he sold his option to Don Tidwell, a mobile-home manufacturer.

"Hitler's limousine" was referred to in The Simpsons episode Bart Carny and in the motion picture Rat Race.

A 770 had been displayed at the Imperial Palace Hotel and Casino.

Mercedes-Benz 600

Mercedes-Benz W100
600

Manufacturer	Mercedes-Benz
Production	1963–1981 2,677 built SWB: 2,190 LWB: 428 Landaulet: 59
Predecessor	Mercedes-Benz W112
Successor	Maybach 57 and 62
Class	full-size limousine

600 Pullman in Mercedes Museum, formerly transporting guests of the German Government

600 Pullman Landaulet (model)

600 in Museum Sinsheim, sitting low until the engine re-supplies the air suspension

600, front view

The Mercedes-Benz 600 was a large luxury automobile, intended to represent the absolute pinnacle of automotive engineering. When introduced in September, 1963, it had few competitors, except Rolls-Royce and some US-made limousines. It was intended to be driven primarily by a chauffeur, not the owner, thus a power divider window separating the front seats from the rear bench seat was available.

Production began in 1964 after considerable ramp-up, with most styles built through 1972. The oil crisis, as well as the introduction of new range of S-Class models, slowed demand. Modest production continued to 1981, however. During this time, 2,677 vehicles were made.

The 600 featured many luxuries, including a complex hydraulic system which powered everything with a pressure of 150 bar, from the windows and seats to the automatically closing doors.

Owners

Apart from German and other governments and the Pope, famous owners of the 600 include numerous celebrities (Hugh Hefner, Elizabeth Taylor, John Lennon, Jason Kay, Aristotle Onassis, Jack Nicholson, Hirohito, Simon Spies, Bob Jane, Elvis Presley, Rowan Atkinson, Jeremy Clarkson), Communist rulers (Nicolae Ceauşescu, Josip Broz-Tito, Mao Zedong, Fidel Castro, Pol Pot, Enver Hoxha, Leonid Brezhnev, Kim il Sung), a religious leader (Guru Maharaj Ji), and African revolutionaries (Idi Amin Dada, Jomo Kenyatta) and former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, who had four 600s including a Landaulet, a 1981 bulletproof, and a six-door version.

Models

The model came in two main variants:

• short wheelbase
  • 4-door sedan, similar to a modern S600 sedan in layout.
  • 4-door sedan, but with a power divider window separating the front seats from the rear bench seat.

• long wheelbase chassis Pullman
  • 4-door limousine, featuring additional two rear-facing seats behind the driver compartment which was separated by a power divider window (in all but three built)
  • 6-door limousine, with two forward facing jump seats stationed at the additional middle two doors and a rear bench seat.

• A few of the limousines were made with a convertible top over the rear passenger compartment and were called landaulets. This was mainly intended for government use, by the Pope, or by the German government, e.g. in 1965 during the visit of Queen Elizabeth II, when she was accompanied by Kurt Georg Kiesinger in open-top tour in Baden-Württemberg. Production of this model ended a year early, in 1971.

Mercedes made two coupés, one of them as a gift for Dr. Rudolf Uhlenhaut when he retired. He had designed the car, together with Fritz Nallinger and Karl Wilfert. A third coupe was constructed from a 600 SWB by Karl Middelhauve and associates.

Some companies altered the car, according to wishes of customers. A funeral coach (hearse) was made from an SWB car. This car, and the two coupés mentioned above, survive to the present day in the United States.

Engine

The 600 was so heavy that the largest engine of Mercedes at that time, the 6-cylinder 300, was inadequate. Instead a new engine with more than twice the capacity was specially developed to move the vehicle and its hydraulically powered amenities, the massive 6.3L V8 "M100" engine with single overhead camshafts, dry sump and Bosch mechanical fuel injection. Adjustable air suspension gave the car a smooth ride and good handling over any road surface. Although the car's agility was inevitably compromised by its mass, the top end speed still was only equalled by the new Porsche 911.

Produced from 1964 to until 1981 in low numbers, this model had no equal in the Mercedes-Benz lineup until the introduction of the modern Maybach 57 and 62 models in 2002.

The 600's "M-100" engine and air suspension were fitted to the 300SEL 6.3 model in 1968, providing the lighter (and more affordable) car with more competent propulsion. Upon the introduction of the "W116" chassis, a larger version of the M-100 was installed in the limited-production Mercedes-Benz 450SEL 6.9.

Technical data

Technical data Mercedes-Benz 600 (W100)

Mercedes-Benz	600	600 Pullman
Produced:	1963 - 1981
Engine:	8-cylinder-V engine (four-stroke), front-mounted
Bore x Stroke:	103 mm x 95 mm
Displacement:	6330 cc
Max. Power @ rpm:	250 PS (247 hp/184 kW) @ 4000
Max. Torque @ rpm:	500 N·m (369 lb·ft) @ 2800
Compression Ratio:	9.00: 1
Fuel feed:	Sequential fuel injection, Bosch injection pump
Fuel tank capacity:	112 L (29.6 US gal/24.6 imp gal)
Valvetrain:	SOHC, duplex chains
Cooling:	Water
Gearbox:	4-speed automatic rear wheel drive, axle ratio 3.23:1
Electrical system:	12 volt
Front suspension:	Double wishbones, air suspension, rubber springs, stabilising bar
Rear suspension::	Low-pivot swing axle, radius arms, self-levelling air suspension, rubber springs, stabilising bar
Brakes:	Disc brakes (Ø 291 mm two-caliper front, 294.5 mm rear), power assisted
Steering:	Recirculating ball steering, power assisted
Body structure:	Sheet steel, unibody construction
Dry weight:	2600 kg (5732 lb)	2770 kg (6107 lb)
Loaded weight:	3050 kg (6724 lb)	3340 kg (7363 lb)
Track front/ rear:	1587 mm (62.5 in) 1581 mm (62.2 in)
Wheelbase:	3200 mm (126 in)	3900 mm (153.5 in)
Length:	5450 mm (214.6 in)	6240 mm (245.7 in)
Width:	1950 mm (76.8 in)	1950 mm (76.8 in)
Height:	1500 mm (59.1 in)	1510 mm (59.4 in)
Tyre/Tire sizes:	9.00H15 Supersport (6PR)
Top speed:	207 km/h (129 mph)	200 km/h (124 mph)
Fuel Consumption (estimates):	24.0 litres per 100 kilometres (11.8 mpg-imp/9.80 mpg-US)	26.0 litres per 100 kilometres (10.9 mpg-imp/9.05 mpg-US)
Price Germany USA:	DM 56,500 (1964)− DM 144,100 (1978) $ 22,000 (1965)	DM 63,500 (1964)− DM 165,500 (1978) $ 24,000 (1965)

Appearances

The model was featured in the film Trading Places, while the 600 Pullman was featured in the film Dragnet.

Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson's Green 600 Grosse was shown during Episode 5 of Series 11, when it was routinely referred to as "the Mercedes Big". The 600 was a 2007 Christmas present from his wife, Francie.

The vehicle appeared in scene in the James Bond film On Her Majesty's Secret Service. In the scene, Bond's wife, Teresa "Tracy" Di Vicenzo Bond is shot to death by Ernst Stavro Blofeld's henchwoman Irma Bunt (both the latter two were in the vehicle). Furthermore, the 600 model in black was use throughout the Friday the 13th: The Series TV Show circa 1987-1990.

Mercedes-Benz 500K

Mercedes-Benz 500K

Manufacturer	Mercedes-Benz
Also called	W29
Production	1934–36
Assembly	Untertürkheim factory, Sindelfingen
Predecessor	Mercedes-Benz 380
Successor	Mercedes-Benz 540K
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel drive
Engine(s)	5,018 cc straight-8
Transmission(s)	4-speed or optional 5-speed manual
Wheelbase	2,980 mm (117.3 in) (SWB) 3,290 mm (129.5 in) (LWB)
Curb weight	Up to 2,700 kg (6,000 lb)
Fuel capacity	110 l (24.2 imp gal/29.1 US gal)
Designer	Friedrich Geiger

The Mercedes 500K is a sports car built by Mercedes-Benz between 1934 and 1936, and first exhibited at the 1934 Berlin Motor Show. Distinguished from the 500 sedan by the "K" in its name which denoted the kompressor (supercharger) only fitted to the sports cars, it succeeded the Mercedes-Benz 380 which had been introduced only the previous year, using a larger, more powerful engine and more opulent coachwork to meet customers' demands for greater luxury and performance.

The 500K used the same independent suspension setup as had been introduced on the 380, with a double wishbone front axle, double-joint swing axle at the rear, and separate wheel location, coil springs and damping, a world first. Consequently it was a more comfortable and better handling car than Mercedes' previous S/SS/SSK generation of roadsters from the 1920s, and offered greater appeal to buyers, particularly the growing number of well-heeled female drivers of the time.

Using a separate foot-operated pedal alongside the accelerator to engage the Roots supercharger, the five litre straight eight engine produced 160 horsepower (120 kW) and was capable of over 160 kilometres per hour (100 mph), consuming fuel at the rate of 27 l/100 km (10.5 mpg_-imp/8.7 mpg_-US) to 30 l/100 km (9.4 mpg_-imp/7.8 mpg_-US) as it did so.

Three different chassis and eight bodies were available for customers; the two longer "B" and "C" four seat cabriolet versions rode on a wheelbase of 3,290 mm (129.5 in), and would later be used on other sedan and touring car models. The short "A" chassis, with a 2,980 mm (117.3 in) wheelbase, underpinned the two-seater models: the Motorway Courier, and the 1936 Special Roadster which offered the highest performance.All models featured such advanced equipment as safety glass, hydraulic brakes, and a 12-volt electrical system sufficient to bear the load of the electric windscreen wipers, door locks, and indicators.

342 500Ks were built during its two years in production, including 29 Special Roadsters, before being replaced by the even more powerful 540K in 1936. Today, they remain highly prized for their heritage and scarcity; when the car collection of Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone was auctioned in October 2007 it included five pre-war Mercedes, and his 500K Special Cabriolet fetched almost £700,000 (US$1.45 million).