We do not recommend towing a caravan that is heavier than 1900 kg kg with this Mercedes-Benz.
In this advice we assume an average caravan with a weight of 1900 kg. Remember that the exact performance depends on the chosen caravan and that air resistance and dimensions have an influence.
Performance
Weight
The Mercedes-Benz 230 GE with a Caravan as an example with an actual weight of 1900 kg is a match suitable for most journeys, sometimes with some limitations.
The motor preformance of the Mercedes-Benz is in general rather poor but for your use maybe sufficient. The weight of the Caravan with a normally distributed User Payload (200 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), kgis quite heavy. Proper and careful loading is essential and don't drive too fast. Remember to load your caravan correctly, insuring that the noseweight of the caravan is sufficient and the weight is distributed properly!
Flat roads
Towing Performance
82
90
Mountains
Risk of snaking
5
131
Weight ratio: 81% (89% of kerbweight)
1900 kg
2335 kg
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Mercedes-Benz 230 GE Caravan as an example
Actual Weights
Caravan as an example: 1900 kg.
Mercedes-Benz 230 GE: 2335 kg.
Noseweight: 100 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 81%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally (very) moderate on flat roads (performance score to compare 82 points).
Speeds of 58 mph (94 km/h) to 66 mph (106 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is only very moderate power at low engine speeds (score to compare 90 points).
Slightly higher revs (3000 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is hardly possible.
In the mountains the performance is generally (very) moderate (score to compare 5 points).
Performance is not great on steep mountain roads. Hill starts more than 7% requires experience from the driver.
On motorway inclines the speed drops despite high revs.
A speed of 37 mph (60 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Mercedes-Benz is more than sufficient (check this in your vehicle documents).
If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997, you will need a B+E driving license.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 81%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 89%.
The risk of snaking at higher speeds, strong side winds and thoughtless driving exist. Even if the combination normally feels stable, the forces by deflection side to side are so great that it could be dangerous. Only if the driver has knowledge of and experience in driving a caravan it should be safe to drive. Proper and careful loading is essential! An electronic stability system in the car and / or on the caravan is recommended.
Recommended noseweight is 100 kg.
Safe speed up to 56 mph (90 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 131 points.
If the caravan starts to snake you should reduce your speed and slow down directly! Lift your feet off the accelerator and brake gradually. Hold the steering wheel into a fixed position.
Conclusion
Performance is rather poor but for your use maybe sufficient.
Proper and careful loading is still important!
It's a good match, sometimes with some limitations.
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.