Mercedes-Benz 4Matic Keeps it Simple, Stupid

?

How's this for automotive evolution?

?

Mercedes-Benz's first all-wheel drive vehicle came in the form of the Dernburg Wagon. Unveiled in 1903, this prototypical SUV had an ultra-tall profile, weighed 3.6 tons, and boasted a top speed of 25 mph.

?

Fast forward to 1985, and the first generation 4Matic driveline premieres at the Frankfurt Motor Show, adding approximately 300 pounds to the E-Class sedan that eventually hits showrooms in '87. The system has since progressed into its fourth generation-- the first three of which came from supplier Magna Steyr, the latest which was developed in-house by Mercedes-Benz.?

?

Since its introduction in 1985, 4Matic's hardware has halved in weight and become the lightest of its kind in the world; it now adds between 95 and 150 pounds to the curb weight of Mercedes-Benz sedans and coupes. Though the system in the blocky Gelandewagen (seen above) is slightly more complex, the basic passenger car version maintains weight efficiency by using smaller rear differentials than their 2WD counterparts (since torque is divided between two axles, heft redundancy is minimized.) The system apportions torque via a central diff with a clutch that's preloaded to 50 nM; spinning wheels are individually braked using the ABS system, helping negotiate slippery situations. The 4Matic premium runs between $2,000 and $3,000.?

?

Though some competitor's more sophisticated torque vectoring systems offer performance-biased dry pavement dynamics, 4Matic worked as advertisted during a cold weather drive through Jackson Hole, Wyoming, enabling us to maneuver across slick highways and through a snowy test course. The 4Matic system doesn't affect fuel economy of E and C-Classes, and it's that level of simplicity and inobtrusiveness that helps 4Matic make its way into over 50% of S-Class and E-Class cars-- proof that, despite an endless technology spiral, sometimes simplicity reigns supreme.

Source: http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/news/auto-blog/mercedes-benz-4matic?src=rss

willis mcgahee