is there a difference in the springs/struts between the GLE and SE. If you look at my sig my SE is on the right and her GLE on the left and her car sides quite a bit lower than my car. At first I thought maybe worn struts but I dont know if it would really make it drop that much. Whats the story?

 

An automatic sits lower in the front due to more weight. Could that be why?

 

Well, the automatics have different springs to accommodate the weight, and be the same height. The FSM lists the same height for both 4AT/5MT.

OP, I assume you've done the obvious and checked the suspension to see if they're both stock? Both have the same size wheels/tires?

It's possible the springs are sagging on her vehicle, but not that likely.

You didn't happen to do a 5MT swap in your car, did you?

 

negative these are both automatics and as far as I can tell they are stock springs/shocks. its the same in the rear also. The GLE just sits lower. I will have to take some actual measurements of the tire to fender gap.
and yes same size tires

 

Is the ground level?

 

All I know is my '96 SE 5MT is jacked up like a Subaru Outback :P

I could hop curbs if I really wanted to...

 

Do you trust that the surface is really level in the above picture? I would get a tape measure out first and see how different the clearances are front and back on both cars. Make sure you don't have extraneous stuff in the trunk, that if one has a spare the other one also does, etc.....

 

Dbl. check for the same amt of gas in tank.

 

The SE is ****ed from the pics. the pass side is ALOT higher.

 

Springs do have different markings from year to year, model to model. Its uncertain whether the rates are any different. SE rear springs are stiffer. Autos have longer front springs.

Im going to go with worn parts. The GLE has 2x the mileage. Springs can wear or settle some. As can bushings. Also shocks kind of play a role in ride height, but I doubt its noticeable.

I was at a local dealership, they had a 95 and a 99. The 99 was about 1" higher maybe more.

 

I parked my 99 (stock SE springs) beside an ol lady driven GLE today, and - after reading this thread - grandma was lookin slammed next to my 4x4, about an inch or so difference - usually exposed wheel is a better indicator when the ground isnt perfectly level.

 

put them next to each other, take a pic and post it!
How many miles on each? Ever do springs or struts?