Automotive Pedal Power & Performance

Tick Talk · 2021-06-20T14:47:52Z

Explore modern Mercedes tuning with Tick Talk's AWD sled. Discover insights on performance mods, dyno results, and community discussions on engine, suspension, and aesthetic upgrades.

Tick Talk

WPS member · Automotive forum

31 replies5297 views2 photos

Tick Talk's exploration of modern automotive tuning, moving from traditional wrenching to sophisticated software modifications, highlights a significant shift in performance enhancement. His personal experience with a 'mild' tune on his AWD Mercedes, unlocking hidden features and boosting wheel horsepower, serves as a compelling case study for enthusiasts considering similar upgrades. This article synthesizes community insights on the evolving landscape of car modifications, offering valuable perspectives for both seasoned motorheads and new readers.

As motorheads, we love to talk modifications and the power they produce as measured with our butt-dynos. Following a "mild" tune to my AWD Mercedes sled, thought I'd try a real dyno to gauge any increase to wheel horsepower. As it turned out, the boost was pretty good. Performance mods are sooo different today from my younger days; more often done with a laptop than a wrench. I recruited the help of an eastern European whiz to unlock certain performance features that Mother Benz had deemed not accessible, such as adaptive headlights (really cool and a true performance feature IMHO) plus additional features to the adaptive suspension and a performance menu for the digital dash. Anyone else care to share their mod stories?

Key Points from the Discussion

Modern cars are highly tunable due to regulatory standardization, allowing significant performance gains through software and hardware modifications. A fully built engine and transmission, combined with tuning and exhaust upgrades, can yield substantial horsepower increases and alter the power band for improved high-RPM performance.
While chip tuning offers quick gains, it's crucial to consider the long-term impact on components like the gearbox, which may not be designed for increased torque. A more holistic approach involves upgrading the exhaust line, admission system, intercooler, and radiators before fine-tuning the engine map to optimize power and torque at higher revs.
The market for performance tunes includes many unreliable or dangerous options. It is essential to choose reputable tuners, such as RennTech or Brabus, known for their reliable modifications and engineering integrity, to ensure both performance and vehicle longevity.
Beyond engine performance, modifications can extend to aesthetic and durability enhancements. For instance, a custom satin black paint with a satin black clear coat offers a more durable alternative to vinyl wraps, providing a unique and lasting finish.
Upgrading suspension and frame connectors can significantly improve a car's handling and stability, especially for track use or spirited driving on back roads. However, such modifications often prioritize performance over ride comfort, potentially leading to a less forgiving daily driving experience.
While increased horsepower is desirable, high-speed stability can become an issue without proper aerodynamic enhancements. Cars pushed to their theoretical top speeds may require an aero package to maintain control and safety.

The Discussion

John-E-Mac

Jun 20, 2021

However, I have always been a a huge fan of MB wagons. What you've done looks very impressive!! Please give us a report after road testing. I am curious where you feel improvements (e.g., accel from stop, passing accel, etc.). Enjoy your "new" wagon!! -John

amanico

Jun 20, 2021

I have to say I am reluctant to chip tuning. For example, there are many guys here and there who are offering chip tuning programs for the Alpine. Most of them don't respect the maximum values a gear box can " eat ". So, my way of thinking is the following, and I did that with many of my cars: - Work on the exhaust line. Lighter, more performant. - Work on the admission part: Dynamic Admission, for example. - Work on the exchanger. - Work on the oil and water radiators. - And, finally, mapping t

Tick Talk

Jun 20, 2021

seems preferences are for SUV here instead but I always admired the wagons in Europe. We often drive the mountain roads and with adaptive suspension set to sport it can carve with the best of them. Too funny to have some bike or "sports" car blast by at illegal speeds on the straights to then see their brake lights on a curve while I just slide on by...

Tick Talk

Jun 20, 2021

there are many fake tunes or even worse, dangerous ones! Often they choose based on price, so what can they expect? Your shopping list looks comprehensive, should make that Alpine sing! Mine was by RennTech which was started by AMG by founding partner Harmut Feyhl when M-B bought them out. I find their mods to be very reliable. Otherwise Brabus might be the only other tuner I'd trust.

mdg

Jun 20, 2021

…that is beautiful…I much prefer it to the sedan version. As far as tweaking the chips, I don’t think I could bring myself to do it until after the warranty was up, and even then it would be nice to have it reversible just in case. Of course, with an AMG 63s V8 I don’t think more horsepower is necessary : )

Tick Talk

Jun 20, 2021

'cause the ride is a bit stiff ;-) If only there was an S63 wagon :-0

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