I'm considering ordering a 2004 E320 4Matic with the Airmatic suspension. In order to get that suspension I'll need to order the Appearance Package, which means that the car will come with 17 inch wheels and 245/45 W rated low profile tires.
I've assumed that I'll want to switch tires for winter driving.
I understand that in order for the car to function properly, the rolling diameter, i.e., the diameter of the wheel plus tire, needs to remain constant.
That means that I'll need smaller wheels to go with snow tires that would not be expected to be low profile or, if such a thing exists, low profile snow tires. I'd be surprised if low profile snow tires performed as well as the traditional kind since tall and skinny tends to work best as a shape for snow tires.
At any rate, I'd appreciate hearing from others who have faced this situation and what you've done in response.
-- Rich