Four times four squared - the second generation of 4MATIC 25 years ago
Quelle: AutoMotoTV (Glomex)
In winter 25 years ago, the innovative second generation of Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC offered even better handling in difficult road conditions. Instead of using conventional differential locks, the new 4MATIC relies on the electronic traction system 4ETS: It switches on automatically if at least one wheel spins on a slippery surface. The system then increases the brake pressure on this wheel until it rotates again in the specified ratio to the other wheels. Today, permanent all-wheel drive is established across all classes of the Mercedes-Benz passenger car range, from the all-electric EQA 300 4MATIC to the new Mercedes-AMG SL 63 4MATIC+. This significantly advanced generation of all-wheel drive made its debut 25 years ago in the E 280 4MATIC and E 320 4MATIC models of the 210 series E-Class. Both are equipped with V6 engines from the newly developed M 112 series with three-valve technology and dual ignition. These vehicles will be presented to the world public for the first time from February 6th to 16th, 1997 at the AutoRAI exhibition in Amsterdam. Immediately after this premiere, the E 280 4MATIC was available, and the market launch of the larger displacement variant followed in June 1997