[amdmaxx]

Competition to 135i?
http://www.worldcarfans.com/9071221....elift-unveiled

[john970]

slower, more expensive, less practical.

(no)

this post was edited by a moderator and just noticed it doesn't note that... hmmm a little shady.

[Templedogg]

+1 Not at all the same car.

[1ster]

Perfectly nice car, but not really a 1er competitor in my mind.

[Propagator]

I'm more interested in that 3.5L V6. I'm guessing in next model year MB will equip the C350 with that engine. The new C class is not a bad car, but the 335i raised the game so much, that it just doesn't make sense to compete in the entry luxo game unless you can bring >300HP to the table. Assuming that MB will indeed put this engine in the C350, that only leaves the new A4, still with ~260HP.

What's your move, VAG?

[atr_hugo]

My only quibble with the MB V6 is the fact that it employs a 90 degree V angle. You have to massage it more to make it smooth (and the exhaust just never sounds 'right' to me - think Buick 3800, a great engine a lousy exhaust note ; -).

[BForbes]

Its still going to eat my dust. Sports car and all.

[Propagator]

Originally Posted by atr_hugo

My only quibble with the MB V6 is the fact that it employs a 90 degree V angle. You have to massage it more to make it smooth (and the exhaust just never sounds 'right' to me - think Buick 3800, a great engine a lousy exhaust note ; -).

Hugo, do you know the reason behind that choice? Is it in some way modular with their V8? I can't really think of any real advantage of having 90 degree V6.

[atr_hugo]

spinzero - yes I believe the V6 originated as an offshoot of the V8 - there are some packaging considerations for the 90 degree V angle also - especially if your using overhead cams and want a low hood.

[Propagator]

Originally Posted by atr_hugo

spinzero - yes I believe the V6 originated as an offshoot of the V8 - there are some packaging considerations for the 90 degree V angle also - especially if your using overhead cams and want a low hood.

Ah, I see. I didn't know about the packaging advantage. That might actually be useful, especially with the euro pedestrian safety reg. Thanks!

[Jeff_DML]

yeah I am more interested in the V6. Nothing mentioned from what I saw that it is direct injected but I assume it is to get the extra power and efficiency?

[Brandon26pdx]

Cute!

[atr_hugo]

Here's a link to some doc on the MB M272 V6 - it is a 90 degree V with a counter-rotating balance shaft. I don't think they use offset crank journals (like Audi and, IIRC, Opel).

http://www.billsden.org/fileadmin/me...ngine_m272.pdf