You don't have to be an automotive engineer analyzing the rear axle variables that set the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the BMW 3 Series apart to tell how different the two German carmakers are when it comes to their RWD approaches. However, there's quite a distance between stating MB prefers conservative handling and the sheer understeer aural drama we see in the latest E-Class Coupe spy video.
To be more precise, a 2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe prototype has been recently spied lapping the Nurburgring, with the two-door model's soundtrack through the challenging Nordschleife bends being far from an enticing one.
Here's to hoping the German engineers were testing the "restrained" end of the handling scale as part of the development process and that the final setup will be a more balanced one.
Don't get us wrong - we're here on our toes, waiting for the new E-Class Coupe to make its debut. And that's because there are plenty of things to look forward to when talking about the W213 E-Class losing its rear doors.
For one thing, the new generation will see the automaker dropping the parts bin approach that meant the old E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet were actually riding on stretched versions of the ex-generation C-Class platform.
Instead, the modular architecture of the new E-Class means the pair of two-door models will get proper underpinnings.
Then there's the engine line-up. Mercedes-Benz is scheduled to make its straight-six return next year and the E-Class Coupe is the perfect candidate for such engines.
Another drawback of the old two-door E-Class was that, despite the resourceful driving experience provided by the car, this lacked an AMG version. Affalterbach won't skip the 2018 E-Class Coupe, though. And the twin-turbo V8 making its way under the sporty model's elegant hood will work with the fresh 9G-Tronic nine-speed auto for added coziness and efficiency.
The newcomer is set to make its debut next year, but we'll get plenty of occasions to talk about it by then.
In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist. Full profile
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