1982 Mercedes-Benz 190 w201 development - design, testing, pre-production

OldBenz Merch Patreon The public and the press were looking towards December 8, 1982 with great expectations, when the compact-class saloons Type 190 and 190 E were presented. These models did not replace previous types, but completed the traditional Mercedes-Benz passenger car program by a third main line. The new range of models was characterised by more compact measures, reduced weight and increased economy without making any compromises as to handling performance, safety and reliability. Minimised energy consumption was reached by using high-strength sheet steel and other weight- reducing materials as well as by aerodynamic optimisation. Passive safety had been the reason for providing series 126 with a forked beam in the front end. With this design principle also the compact-class vehicles fulfilled the criterion of an asymmetric head-on impact with 40 % overlapping and 55 kph. Thus the 190 models were absolutely as safe as the big S-Class saloons. Excellent handling performance was made possible by newly developed front and rear axle constructions. The damper strut front axle with individual A-arm suspension and anti-dive device guarantees a good straight-running stability. Its low overall height created favourable conditions in the engine compartment. A revolutionary novelty was the multilink rear suspension, in which each rear wheel is led by an independent control arm. This optimal wheel control largely compensates lateral and longitudinal forces at all driving conditions, thus avoiding unwanted steering movements of the wheel. Further advantages of this innovative construction are its low weight and the little space it takes. #w201 #mercedes190 #development #oldbenz video © Daimler AG Drone in D by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license () Source: Artist: