Mercedes Benz uses the standard longitudinally installed, inline transmission-engine combination common in many European rear wheel drive models. The transfer of power comes from an integrated differential, in turn driven by an axle drive which derives its power from the transmission itself. Mercedes offers manual and automatic transmission options on its 2010 sedan and sport model lineups. Interestingly enough, no matter how technologically advanced Mercedes makes its new model cars, their transmission schematic hasn’t changed much since 1886. Indeed, when looking at the layout under the frame, only the differential seems to vary from the original single speed transmission. When gazing at the amazing simplicity, one could almost imagine Berta Benz re-hooking the chain and clamping a wire with fabric from her garter on her historic 1888 drive.
One only needs, however, to climb in to feel the 21st Century influence, which pays well-deserved homage to 19th Century innovation. The manual transmission gives purists an exciting feel, with a minuscule throw. The changing of gears lets the driving enthusiast get an unparalleled feel for both the car and the road. Unlike an automatic transmission, the six speed manual lets the operator drive the car rather than the other way around. Unfortunately, it seems that only the C-Class offers this option. The C-Class is no slouch in the performance area, though, and at 35000 dollars is infinitely more affordable than the bigger models.
For those who eschew the clutch, both the five and seven speed automatic transmission options offer roaring power with pudding-smooth up and downshifting. The seven speed will even adjust itself to your driving style, converting your shift points to maximize both efficiency and economy. This ultra-modern, meticulously engineered contraption also sports a pair of F1-inspired paddle shifters to give you manual control without a clutch.
The five speed automatic also has paddle shifters and is offered on the most powerful models, including the CL600 and the AMG monsters. Mercedes’s 2010 models offer anything from 228 hp in the C-Class to 600hp in the AMG models. The transmissions designed by the venerable Stuttgart crew handle their jobs admirably. Whether you prefer the synchronicity of clutch and shifter or the programmed precision of the automatic, the driving experience is equally rewarding.
This comes as no surprise, really, when one considers the history of the brand. From three wheels and less than 1hp, Mercedes continues to provide excellence without compromise. Impressive.
Mercedes transmissions available
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