MERCEDES
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BENZ 1831
The Mercedes, like the Scania, is more of a rest cab than an out-and-out sleeper; for all that still it manages to cram twin bunks into its low height. The cab's trim and fabric is comfortable—the cloth is quite jazzy in appearance—and there is a wide transmission hump between the front seats which forms a broad tray with a lockable space beneath. This was the only significant stowage space unless the other bunk was vacant.
The transmission hump also restricts cross-cab access and makes entry to the bunk area very tricky if the driver is to avoid banging his head or having a painful encounter with the gear lever. Our tester described it as "an Anneka Rice challenge".
RESTRICTED
Changing room in the passenger footwell was particularly restricted, and the lack of headroom makes things still more difficult. However, the curtains are effective— if rather sticky on thei7 runners.
Once into the sleeping area the lower bunk is pretty comfortable: it offers ample width and length for a sizeable driver, and the mattress is soft and relaxing.
Headroom is the lowest of the cabs in this group (just 54cm for the lower bunk), so claustrophobes need not apply. The lights and heater controls are close to hand; not so the radio which is mounted above the driving position, and (=tot be operated without leaving the warmth of the sleeping bag. The heater is quiet and effective, sounding like nothing more than a distant hair drier, and our tester had a good night's sleep.