1999 Mercedes E430 - Benzing Rules - Live From Germany

With a fully prepped MKB Motorsports package under the hood, there was a need to build up the factory automatic transmission as well as beef up the differential. MKB technicians did an extensive transmission build-up to take on the high-torque 6.0-liter engine. The factory differential was removed and replaced with an MKB limited-slip model. According to Steffen, "The factory ECU also had to be modified for the transmission upgrade since the Mercedes' speed runs easily surpassed the factory mph limit. Once all the upgrades were complete, the E-Class was strapped to MKB's chassis dyno to lay down the law. In naturally aspirated trim, the Benz was able to lay down 425 horsepower. This is an incredible feat considering the original block was a 4.3-liter and the fact the Benz generates these numbers without the aid of nitrous or any form of forced induction.

Staying stuck to the pavement is the job for a good set of tires, a proper suspension set-up and a reliable set of brakes. Just like in "Days of Thunder," Cole Trickle relied on a good set of matched tires acquired from his crew chief to get past treacherous turn four. The E-Class rolls Dunlop 275/35ZR-18 SP 8000s mounted on 18x10s OZ Racing F1 Cup wheels. Suspension mods include a set of adjustable Koni shocks with MKB springs that set the vehicle's ride height 1.5 inches lower than stock. Upgraded Eibach sway bars also help the vehicle's handling. The Benz's brake system is quite clever, consisting of a set of cross-drilled rotors with a custom MKB adapter used to mount Porsche four-piston calipers to the factory Mercedes hubs.

Mercedes Benz is known for its luxurious exterior styling and comfortable, as well as eye-pleasing interior. Since the MKB flagship has a motor that would make the CEO of Mercedes jealous, you would think the exterior doesn't need any enhancements. That's when MKB stepped up to the plate and buffed-up the body of the E430 by replacing the factory fenders and quarter panels with MKB Motorsports' own flared-fender kit. As far as the interior makeover goes, Steffen decided to stay with OEM Mercedes parts with the exception of a set of MKB seats and steering wheel.

Europe houses a gangload of some of the fastest production cars, such as Porsche, Ferrari and BMW. Mercedes Benz is a company known more for its outstanding production and design than for building fast European production cars. Across the pond, MKB has raised the stakes by using its E430 to show a Mercedes isn't just for looks anymore. This Benz is capable of running 186 mph on pump gas, which is more than enough to stick it to a Porsche on the Autobahn. As matter of fact, MKB's Mercedes could probably have a Porsche for lunch while taking a family of five out to dinner.