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PFl any in 1991 CM's I 720L test truck came with

25th September 1997
Page 45
Page 45, 25th September 1997 — PFl any in 1991 CM's I 720L test truck came with
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the revised version of the M-type short sleeper SK cab, adding some 180kg to the unladen

weight. Supplied on the second longest (5.9m) wheelbase with optional air suspension on the drive axle, the chassis-cab weighed in at 5.92 tonnes Although more than half-a-tonne lighter than the 161 7 it replaced, the 1 720 was still more than a tonne heavier than the Iveco Ford Cargo 1721. Although it was among the more powerful models available at the time it lost out on torque to both the 1 721 and ERF's E8.21. Acceleration and hillelimb times were not much different but the Mercedes' overall journey time was slower This was perhaps something to do with its six-speed transmission and high (4.3:1) final drive ratio. The 1 720 did record better fuel consumption on the motorway than over the Aroads, but its overall consumption of 11.4mpg failed to match the opposition. It was a quiet and relaxing vehicle to drive for long periods, though the gearchange was notchy with a heavy clutch, In the cab the multi-function column stalk as used in the cars was not to everyone's taste, but nice touches included heated rearview mirrors and an electric window for the near side as standard. Although the steering column adjusts for rake and height the air suspension seat was an option. Stowage space was just about adequate for an occasional night out. Three

of the top four manufacturers offer a choice of at least two power rat

ings for solo operation, saying that the lower power versions are better suited to urban deliveries.

Mercedes-Benz doesn't seem to share this view: its maximum weight 4x2 rigid is powered by a six-pot 5.95-litre engine with a single rating of 211hp. This hasn't stopped Mercedes taking a respectable 14% share of the 1 7tonne market behind Leyland Daf and Volvo. Major leasing deals led to a glut of late-model Powerliner 1834 tractors on the market prior to the introduction of the Actros: even Mercedes' rock-steady residuals suffered a momentary wobble

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