Although the name Sprinter may be associated with a sports car, it fits quite well into a Mercedes-Benz van. So that the sprint does not end prematurely, it is worth ordering the optional ESP system.
Mercedes-Benz is not only about prestigious passenger cars. It is also one of the world's largest manufacturers of commercial vehicles, including vans. And among them, the key position is occupied by a representative of the middle weight category – Sprinter. The numbers speak for themselves. By more than 10 years of market presence this model bought more than 1,3 min customers Just look out the window – Likely, that the next van crossing the street will be the Sprinter.
On the occasion of the changes carried out five years ago, the German manufacturer enriched its offer with the ESP system. – for an extra charge. It was the debut of this system in vans.
Initially, this option applied only to closed versions with a permissible total weight up to 3,5 t, later also varieties intended for development. It turns out, that this system is very useful in a delivery vehicle – especially such as sprinter. This is primarily due to its nature – the differences in the distribution of axle loads between the loaded and empty body are quite large, which makes it much more difficult to predict the behavior of the car. The situation may be further aggravated by the sloppy distribution of goods, np. only on one side. In addition, the Sprinter has a rear-wheel drive and at low load the driven wheels easily slip. In part, this is due to the solid engine. Power 130 HP and maximum torque 300 Nm with a short-stepped gearbox guarantees decent acceleration. After all, the name obliges to something. Unfortunately, shifting is reluctant, despite the modern-looking short lever.
ESP performance in the Sprinter is less sophisticated than in passenger cars. Slips are reduced sharply, with a pronounced jerk. On slippery surfaces, the system fights against spinning driven wheels and does it with some exaggeration. Often a better result is given by disconnecting the ASR system responsible for this inconvenience. – minimal slippage, far from losing control of the car, significantly improves starting from under the lights. Of course, when the ASR is turned off, there is a lateral slip, ESP enters the action. And even more violently.
So we come to the basic issue – ESP is to help the driver to control the car, save him from unexpected situations, and not to think for him. Especially in a heavy commercial vehicle. Holding the gas pedal depressed to the limit, when ice under the wheels, never a good idea. Just like cornering craziness. After all, ESP uses a standard braking system. Even as efficient as the Sprinter (four shields, front ventilated) however, it will not cause miracles.