Engineering optimized, weight reduced
Parallel to this the Tourismo was technically enhanced. A new manual six-speed transmission made its arrival, plus a rear axle from the Travego, the successor to the O 404 (still providing the platform for the Tourismo). In the passenger compartment the carry-on luggage racks were freed of the components of the air conditioning system. Anti-corrosion treatment in a newly installed cataphoretic dip bath promised a long service life.
Equally important, at least, was weight reduction. Though the Tourismo never had been a heavyweight, the engineers cut its weight for the 2005 model year by fully half a ton. Aluminum found use as material for the air vessel and tank, and also for the floor of the luggage compartment, in the form of a sandwich construction in place of plywood. Glazing and wheels were made lighter; the bunk for the driver was prepared for installation, but not already fully installed.
Mercedes Tourismo RHD - Strong colours predominate in the interior
The outside armrests and the litter bin per seat row were dropped; even the folding tables were made lighter. The result is that coach operators can order three-star seats for 49 passengers with a clear conscience – many owners of other twelve meter long high decker touring coaches on two axles must fear having their buses weighed. With these assets, the Tourismo qualifies itself as a genuine long-running success and a practical touring coach. Although it does not have the inexhaustible variety of the O 303 range, it does remind one a great deal of that classic.
Mercedes Tourismo RHD - The Tourismo’s cockpit meets every requirement.
Technical data - Mercedes-Benz O 340 (Type sheet)
Photos and text:
Daimler AG