[Jeff G]

Originally Posted by surf twang

My fiance' and I drive from San Jose, CA to Albuquerque, NM three to four times a year. We're seriously considering a 2007 H3 but we're concerned about its ability to handle the long grades through Eastern CA, Arizona and New Mexico, especially around Flagstaff. I've done a search and read through all the threads about the H3's power, or lack of, but still don't have a comfortable feeling. We usually set the cruise control on 75 and our Mercedes C240 has no problems keeping up or passing traffic. I'm not expecting sports car or Mercedes sedan performance but I don't want to be stuck behind semi's with no way to pass. Does anyone have any experience with an H3 on this route?

Surf - If you're fine with the performance of the C240, you'll be fine with the H3. I bought a new 240 about 6 years ago. I drove it for about 6 months(damned weak and I don't like the way it's geared) and traded it for a new E320. I loved it and drove it for 3 years and then bought the S500 with the AMG pkg. Now, when I get out of the 500 and into the H3, I feel like I'm walking. They are 2 different cars with 2 different uses. We drive the H3 to our house in the Smoky Mountains a couple times permonth and I'm not disappointed in it at all. I don't think you would be disappointed in the H3 and I definately wouldn't let 10% of my driving habits sway my decision.