Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Manufacturer	Mercedes-Benz
Production	1993–present
Assembly	Toluca, Mexico 6th of October City, Egypt Bogor, Indonesia Bremen, Germany East London, South Africa Juiz de Fora, Brazil[1] Sindelfingen, Germany Thonburi, Thailand
Predecessor	Mercedes-Benz 190E
Successor	Mercedes-Benz CLC-Class (For Coupe)
Class	Compact executive car
Layout	Front engine, rear-wheel drive

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a compact executive car produced by the Mercedes-Benz division of Daimler AG. First introduced in 1993 as a replacement for the 190 range, the C-Class was nicknamed the "Baby Benz" as it was the smallest model in the marque's lineup, until the 1997 arrival of the A-Class. The C-Class is built at Mercedes-Benz factories in Sindelfingen and Bremen, Germany, as well as in Mercedes's factories in Brazil^[2] and DaimlerChrysler's South African factory in East London. All US-market cars W202 cars were produced at the Germany plants. The very first W202 C-Class sedan was produced on June 1, 1993, and the second generation W203 C-Class rolled off the assembly line on July 18, 2000. The third generation W204 C-Class was launched in 2007. The C-Class is the base car in the United States.

The C-Class platform has been used for several coupes, including the CLC-Class (and its predecessor, the C-Class Sportcoupe) and the E-class Coupe (and its predecessor, the CLK-Class). ^[3]

Contents 1 W202 (1993–2000) 1.1 Engines 1.2 Transmissions 1.3 Safety 1.3.1 Crash test ratings 1.4 T-Model 1.5 US-spec models 1.6 Restyling 1.7 AMG models 2 W203 (2000–2007) 2.1 Crash test ratings 2.2 Reliability 2.3 AMG models 3 W204 (2008–present) 3.1 Trim Levels 3.2 Powertrain 3.3 AMG model 3.4 C-Class crash test ratings 3.5 Awards 4 Motorsport 4.1 C-Class DTM 2006 (W203) specifications 4.2 FIA Formula One 5 Concepts 6 Notes 7 References 8 External links

W202 (1993–2000)

W202

Production	1993–2000
Assembly	Bremen, Germany Sindelfingen, Germany East London, South Africa 6th of October, Germany[4]
Body style(s)	4-door sedan 5-door wagon
Platform	Mercedes-Benz W202
Engine(s)	1.8–2.3 L M111 I4 2.8 L M104 I6 2.4–2.8 L M112 V6 3.6 L M104 I6 AMG 4.3–5.4 L M113 V8 AMG 2.0–2.2 L OM601 Diesel I4 2.2 L OM611 Diesel I4 2.5 L OM605 Diesel I5
Transmission(s)	5-speed manual 4-speed automatic 5-speed automatic
Wheelbase	2,670 mm (105.1 in)
Length	4,505 mm (177.4 in)
Width	1,720 mm (67.7 in)
Height	1,425 mm (56.1 in)
Related	Mercedes-Benz C208

The first generation W202 C-Class was introduced in 1993, as a replacement for the Mercedes-Benz W201 (190), and proved successful among high-end car buyers. The C-Class sedan was the company's entry-level model up until 1997, when Mercedes launched the A-Class. Styling themes were carried over from the previous W201 series, but the new series had a smoother and rounder design than the previous generation of compact Mercedes.

Engines

On its debut, the C-Class was the only Mercedes model with a complete lineup of multi-valve engines. The new family of four cylinder petrol units, called M111, debuted in the C 180 (1.8 L, 122 PS (90 kW; 120 hp)), C 200 (2.0 L, 136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) and C 220 (2.2 L, 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp), the only four cylinder of the range sold in the U.S.). In 1996 the C 220 was replaced by the C 230, enlarged to 2.3 L displacement but with the same output, although with torque increased to 220 N·m (162 lb·ft). The C 280 was the high end model of the class, with a four-valve-per-cylinder straight-6 engine, capable of reaching 193 PS (142 kW; 190 hp).

Four-cylinder diesel models were equipped with the same OM601 engine of the 190, in the 2.0 L and 2.2 L versions. Many of these diesel variants were sold as taxis, due to their low fuel consumption and strong reliability. There were also more powerful OM605 five cylinder engines which were available in naturally aspired (C 250 D) and turbocharged (C 250 TD) forms. The turbodiesel was introduced in 1995 and is one of the novelties in the engine range available from this year. The most important was a supercharged version of the M111 straight four, the C 230 Kompressor, using a Roots-type supercharger to generate 193 PS (142 kW; 190 hp) at 5300 rpm: Mercedes-Benz reused supercharger technology after 50 years. Due to the tax law in Italy and Portugal, models in those countries featured a supercharged version of the smaller 2.0 L (C 200 Kompressor), which had a similar output of the C 230 Kompressor.

With the restyling in 1997, a lot of things changed under the hood of the Baby Benz. The most important innovation was the OM611, the first turbodiesel engine equipped with a common rail direct injection system (co-developed with Bosch). The new model was named C 220 CDI, and had an improvement in output of 30 PS (22 kW; 30 hp) compared with the C 220 Diesel, better fuel average and lower emissions. Another revolution occurred to the six cylinder engines, as the legendary straight six were replaced by an all new family of V6, the M112. The new engines featured SOHC heads instead of the previous DOHC, three valves per cylinder instead of four, and twin sparkplugs. The four-cylinder C 230 was replaced by the C 240 (2.4 L) and the I6 C 280 by the V6 C 280. These changes theoretically reduced emissions, and improved fuel consumption, without sacrificing power (the C 280 in (7,112 mm) fact had a slight 4 PS (3 kW; 4 hp) increase with the change).

In the last four years of production, the W202 received a few changes in the choices of engine. In 1998, a less powerful version of the 2.2 L turbodiesel was added, called C 200 CDI, which replaced the C 220 Diesel. In 2000, the C 200 Kompressor T's output was cut to 163 PS (120 kW; 161 hp), the C 240 T displacement was enlarged from 2.4 L to 2.6 L, but output remained at 170 PS (130 kW; 170 hp) and the C 180 got a 2.0 L engine.

Petrol engines Version Engine Cyl. Power C 180 1.8 16V M111 S4 122 PS (90 kW; 120 hp) C 200 2.0 16V M111 S4 136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) C 220 / C 230 2.2, 2.3 16V M111 S4 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) C 200 Kompressor 2.0 16V K M111.944 S4 193 PS (142 kW; 190 hp) C 230 Kompressor 2.3 16V K M111 S4 195 PS (143 kW; 192 hp) C 240 2.4 18V M112 V6 170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp) C 280 2.8 24V M104 S6 197 PS (145 kW; 194 hp) C 280 2.8 18V M112 V6 197 PS (145 kW; 194 hp) C 36 AMG 3.6 24V AMG M104 S6 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp) C 43 AMG 4.3 24V AMG M113-E43 V8 306 PS (225 kW; 302 hp) C 55 AMG 5.4 24V AMG M113-E55 V8 345 PS (254 kW; 340 hp)

Diesel engines Version Engine Cyl. Power C 200 Diesel 2.0 8V D OM601 S4 75 PS (55 kW; 74 hp) C 200 CDI 2.2 16V CDI OM611 S4 102 PS (75 kW; 101 hp) C 220 Diesel 2.2 16V D OM601 S4 95 PS (70 kW; 94 hp) C 220 CDI 2.2 16V CDI OM611 S4 125 PS (92 kW; 123 hp) C 250 2.5 20V D OM605 S5 113 PS (83 kW; 111 hp) C 250 Turbodiesel 2.5 20V TD OM605 S5 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp)

Transmissions

At the launch all W202 variants were equipped with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The 722.4 4-speed automatic transmission, also called 4G-TRONIC, was available as extra cost (standard on the C 36 AMG). In 1996 this old transmission - which was on sale since 1981 - was replaced by a 5-speed automatic gearbox (aka 722.5 or 5G-TRONIC), which received the manual shifting in 1999 (722.6). In 2000 the T-Modell, the only still on sale, was equipped with the G56 6-speed manual transmission.

Safety

At the launch the C-Class had a standard driver airbag, ABS and integrated side-impact protection; the front passenger airbag became standard from 1995 onwards, and from the same period Traction control (ETS in the 4-cylinder models, combined with limited slip differential (ASD) or ASR in the 6 cylinders models) was available as extra cost. In 1997 ASR became standard in the C 280s equipped with the automatic transmission and in the C 36 AMG, as ETS in the 4-cylinder models, except for the C 180 and the C 220 Diesel.

With the 1997 restyling ASR became standard in all the models, except in the C 180 and C 220 Diesel. This last model continued to offer ETS available as extra cost. Moreover front side airbags and Brake assist (BAS) came in the list of standard safety features. The two basic models finally joined ASR in 1998, and, in 1999, the W202 was the first mid-size sedan to offer ESP as standard in all the range.

Crash test ratings

EuroNCAP adult occupant[5]:
EuroNCAP pedestrian (pre-2002 rating):

NHTSA crash test ratings (1997)^[6]:

Frontal Driver:
Frontal Passenger:
Side Driver:
Side Rear Passenger:

T-Model

In the 1980s, the Mercedes-Benz 190 suffered from the lack of an estate version, which was available in models like BMW 3 Series and Audi 80. Mercedes-Benz finally introduced an estate model in 1996, called T-Modell (T for touring or transporter). It shared the same versions of the sedan, with the exception of the AMG versions. The W202 T-model was not made available to the North American market, although the W203 version was.

US-spec models

W202s in North America included the C 220 (later replaced by the C 230), C240, C 280 (both I6 and V6) and the AMG variants. It was launched in the U.S. in 1994, and unlike models in Europe, featured a third stop light, no specific trim levels, and side lights at the end of the front-turn signals. The top speed was also electronically limited to 130 mph (210 km/h) in the US due to tire speed restrictions.

Restyling

In 1997, the C-Class was given a small midlife freshening, with new darker rear tail light lenses, new wheel rims as well as subtle interior trim changes, including on the door mouldings. The exterior radio antenna was no longer fender mounted and was integrated into the rear glass. The front and rear bumpers were also reshaped, colour-coded side skirts where also fitted. The revised C 200 and C 230 models were fitted with a supercharger and denoted on the trunk lid as a "Kompressor".

AMG models

In 1995, the C-Class received its first genuine performance model, the C 36 AMG, to counter the new six-cylinder BMW M3. Developed with AMG, the tuning house that had now become a subsidiary of Daimler-Benz, it had a racing-tuned suspension (lowered by 25 mm (1 in)) and in the USA, a four-speed automatic gearbox, followed by a standard five-speed automatic gearbox. The 3.6 L engine had a maximum output of 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp) at 5750 rpm and 385 N·m (284 lb·ft) at 4000 rpm. Top speed was electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). Only a total of 5200 C 36 AMGs were produced.

In 1998 AMG developed a new flagship for the C-Class, the C 43 AMG, powered by a 4.3 L V8, which could now achieve 306 PS (225 kW; 302 hp) at 5850 rpm, with a torque of 410 N·m (302 lb·ft) at 3250 rpm. It was also available as a station wagon. Again, only 4200 AMG units were produced, with only 25 C 43 vehicles of the 2000 model year imported to the US. This vehicle bears four gear assembly each side by side to impart better fuel efficiency & performance.

W203 (2000–2007)

W203

Production	Sedan & Wagon 2000–2007 Hatchback 2001–2007
Assembly	Bremen, Germany Sindelfingen, Germany East London, South Africa 6th of October City, Egypt[4] Juiz de Fora, Brazil Thonburi, Thailand[7] Bogor, Indonesia[8]
Body style(s)	2-door coupe 4-door sedan 5-door station wagon
Platform	Mercedes-Benz W203
Engine(s)	1.8–2.3 L M111 I4 1.8 L M271 I4 Kompressor 2.0–2.3 L M111 I4 Kompressor 2.6 L–3.2 L M112 V6 2.5 L–3.5 L M272 V6 3.2 L Supercharged M112 V6 AMG 5.4 L M113 V8 AMG 2.1 L OM611 Diesel I4 2.7 L OM612 Diesel I5 3.0 L OM642 Diesel V6 3.0 L OM612 Diesel I5 AMG
Transmission(s)	6-speed manual 5-speed automatic 7-speed automatic
Wheelbase	2,715 mm (106.9 in)
Length	Saloon: 4,526 mm (178.2 in) T-Modell: 4,541 mm (178.8 in) SportCoupe: 4,343 mm (171.0 in)
Width	1,728 mm (68.0 in)
Height	Saloon: 1,426 mm (56.1 in) T-Modell: 1,465 mm (57.7 in) Coupe: 1,406 mm (55.4 in)

The second generation C-Class was introduced in 2000, with a sportier look than the previous generations, with a steeper front-end and shorter rear-end. The styling cues were similar to that of the W220 S-Class. The sedan debuted with a range of straight-four and V6 gasoline engines and straight-four and straight-five Diesels. Most of the engines were carried over from the W202, but the C 320 was exclusive, offering 218 PS (160 kW; 215 hp), also the C240 now had 2597 cc but output was unchanged at 170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp). The diesels now featured common rail direct injection and variable geometry turbochargers. Six-speed manual gearboxes were now standard for nearly the entire range (except the C320 and C 270 CDI). For the first time, the number designations were no longer equivalent to the engine displacement, more specifically in the C 200 (1.8 L), C 240 (2.6 L) and C 200 CDI (2.2 L).

In 2001, Mercedes increased the range, with the introduction of the new T-Model station wagon and Sportcoupé. The Sportcoupé was a three-door liftback made to counter the BMW Compact, but like its competitor, it proved unpopular with the younger buyers it was targeted towards, due to high prices compared to the lower entry-level models it was competing against, and unfavorable exchange rates. Although removed from the North American lineup in 2005, it continued on sale in other markets. From October 2000 until 2007, a total of 230,000 Sportcoupés were built in the Bremen factory and in Brazil^[9]. In Canada, it was replaced by the Mercedes-Benz B-Class. In 2003, a new family of supercharged four cylinder engines, dubbed M271, also debuted. All of them used the same 1.8 L engine, with different designations according to horsepower levels, including a version powered by natural gas. The 193 PS (142 kW; 190 hp) C 230K was initially available only in the Sportcoupé (replacing the 2.3 L engine in 2002 and older models). The newer 1.8 L was less powerful but smoother and more efficient than the older 2.3 L (192 PS (141 kW; 189 hp) compared to 193 PS (142 kW; 190 hp). 4MATIC four wheel drive versions were also offered for the C 240 and C 320.

The C-Class was refreshed in early 2004. In this year, the interior styling was changed in all three body styles. The instrument cluster was revised to display a full set of analog gauges, as well as a full revision of the center console and audio systems. A fully integrated iPod connection kit was available as was a better bluetooth phone system made opional. New electrics made it more reliable after the "Modellpflege" (model revision.) For the USA market C230, the "sport" package was made standard which included AMG edition bumpers, side skirts and front 4 caliper crossdrilled brakes from the C55. Widebody rear suspension with sport tuned springs and dampers completed the package for 2005. In 2006, Mercedes softened the ride some due to complaints that the 2005 models with the standard AMG edition springs/dampers were too stiff for standard issue. Different taillights were added to the Sportcoupé and several all-new M272 and OM642 V6 engines were introduced later in the year. Both petrol and diesel engines were added. The C230 V6, C280, C350 replaced the C240 and C320, the new-generation 6-cylinder engines developed substantially more power than the older version, by as much as 24% more, whilst also increasing fuel economy and reducing C0₂ emissions. The C 230 V6, C 280 and C 350 developed 204 PS (150 kW; 201 hp), 231 PS (170 kW; 228 hp) and 272 PS (200 kW; 268 hp) respectively. The three-valve twin spark design was replaced by a four-valve design, now with variable valve timing. On the diesel side too, things were much improved, with a brand-new V6 3.0 litre CDI diesel. The new V6 diesel offered masses of more power compared to the C 270 CDI, by as much as 32% more, the CO₂ emissions and fuel economy were also bettered, the output of this engine 224 PS (165 kW; 221 hp) and its torque of 510 N·m (380 lb·ft) made it the worlds most powerful diesel at the time. The C 220 CDI received a power increase from 143 PS (105 kW; 141 hp) to 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) In addition, these engines also received the new seven-speed 7G-Tronic automatic transmission, a more economical naturally aspirated 1.8 L (C 160) was added to the Sportcoupé lineup.

The last W203 C-Class sedan was produced on December 14, 2006 at the Sindelfingen plant.

However, the W203 Sportcoupé liftback will continue to be produced in Brazil beyond this date, since Mercedes-Benz does not foresee producing a W204 Sportcoupé. Indeed, it has decided to offer an updated W203-2 or CL203 Sportcoupé with a new restyled front end inspired by the W204 sedan ^[10] and an improved engine range parallel to the one of the W204. It was also spun off into its own separate line as the CLC-Class.^[11]

Crash test ratings

EuroNCAP adult occupant[12]:
EuroNCAP pedestrian (pre-2002 rating):
IIHS overall frontal offset score[13]:	Good
IIHS overall side crash test score[14]:	Acceptable

NHTSA crash test ratings (2006)^[15]:

Frontal Driver:
Frontal Passenger:
Side Driver:
Side Rear Passenger:
Rollover:

Reliability

Breakdown statistics reported by the German Automobile Club in May 2010 placed the Mercedes C-Class at the top of the middle-sized car class in respect of the low break-down rates achieved for cars aged between 0 and 5 years.^[16][17] (Class laggards were the Ford Mondeo and the recently superseded Opel Vectra.^[16])

AMG models

After the performance of the AMG models in the previous generation, Mercedes-Benz attempted to increase sales among high-end buyers by introducing two different AMG versions in the new model, also in 2001. The C32 AMG scaled back down to a 3.2 L V6 engine, to match the E46 M3 displacement and improve weight distribution, but it required a twin-screw type supercharger (manufactured by IHI) to reach 354 PS (260 kW; 349 hp)) at 6100 rpm and 450 N·m (332 lb·ft) at 4400 rpm. Like its predecessors, it used a five-speed automatic, helping it to complete a 0–100 km/h sprint within 5.2 seconds. The second version was C30 CDI AMG, using a 3.0 L five-cylinder engine, capable of 231 PS (170 kW; 228 hp) at 3800 rpm and 540 N·m (398 lb·ft) at 2000 rpm. Both were available in all three body styles, but the diesel model did not reach sales expectations and was retired in 2004, as well as the C32 AMG Sportcoupé.

By the revision of the C-Class in 2005, C32 AMG was also replaced, giving way to a new 5.4 L naturally aspirated V8-powered C55 AMG. This was an evolution of the V8 engine found in the previous E-Class, with power raised to 367 PS (270 kW; 362 hp) at 5750 rpm and torque climbing to 510 N·m (376 lb·ft) at 4000 rpm. Unlike the less-powerful V6s in the rest of the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the C55 continued to use the five-speed automatic with AMG Speedshift. Though maximum speed is still limited to 250 km/h (155 mph) and 4.9 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is improved, this model is considered the sportiest AMG model in the C-Class history before the recent release of the W204 (third generation) C63 AMG.

Petrol engines Version Engine Cyl. Power (PS) C 160 1.8 16V M111 S4 122 PS (90 kW; 120 hp) C 180 C180 Kompressor 2.0 16V M111 1.8 16V K M271 S4 129 PS (95 kW; 127 hp) 143 PS (105 kW; 141 hp) C 200 C200 Kompressor 2.0 16V K M111 1.8 16V K M271 S4 163 PS (120 kW; 161 hp) 163 PS (120 kW; 161 hp) C 230 1.8 16V K M271 2.3 16V K M111 2.5 24V M272 S4 S4 V6 192 PS (141 kW; 189 hp) 193 PS (142 kW; 190 hp) 204 PS (150 kW; 201 hp) C 240 2.6 18V M112 V6 170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp) C 280 3.0 24V M272 V6 231 PS (170 kW; 228 hp) C 320 3.2 18V M112 V6 218 PS (160 kW; 215 hp) C 350 3.5 24V M272 V6 272 PS (200 kW; 268 hp) C 32 AMG 3.2 18V SC M112 V6 354 PS (260 kW; 349 hp) C 55 AMG 5.4 24V M113 V8 367 PS (270 kW; 362 hp)

Diesel engines Version Engine Cyl. Power (PS) C 200 CDI 2.1 16V CDI OM611 S4 115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp) 122 PS (90 kW; 120 hp) C 220 CDI 2.1 16V CDI OM611 S4 143 PS (105 kW; 141 hp) 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) C 270 CDI 2.7 20V CDI OM612 S5 170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp) C 320 CDI 3.0 24V CDI OM642 V6 224 PS (165 kW; 221 hp) 231 PS (170 kW; 228 hp) C 30 CDI AMG 3.0 20V CDI OM612 S5 231 PS (170 kW; 228 hp)

W204 (2008–present)

W204

Production	2008–present 1,000,000+ Produced(Early August 2010)
Assembly	Bremen, Germany Sindelfingen, Germany East London, South Africa 6th of October City, Egypt[4] Juiz de Fora, Brazil
Body style(s)	4-door saloon, 5-door estate
Platform	Mercedes-Benz W204
Engine(s)	1.6 L-1.8 L M271 I4 Kompressor 2.5–3.5 L M272 V6 6.2 L M156 V8 AMG 2.1 L OM611 Diesel I4 2.1 L OM651 Diesel I4 3.0 L OM642 Diesel V6
Transmission(s)	6-speed manual 5-speed automatic 7-speed automatic
Wheelbase	2,760 mm (108.7 in)
Length	4,582 mm (180.4 in) (sedan) 4,596 mm (180.9 in) (wagon) 4,726 mm (186.1 in) (C63 AMG sedan)
Width	1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height	1,447 mm (57.0 in)

DaimlerChrysler introduced a new generation of the C-Class on January 18, 2007 ^[18] and displayed it in the 2007 Geneva Auto Show. Sales started on March 31, 2007 in almost all European countries. The new vehicle has an extended wheelbase and tracks, a stiffer bodyshell and a design inspired by the most recent S-Class and some hints from the CLS-Class.

The development of the W204 C-Class involved the use of a "digital prototype", which put a 2.1 terabyte digital replica of the car through a 15 million mile road course. This is an industry first which allowed for crash testing and more, before a physical prototype was actually constructed.

Unlike the previous generations, the Estate (station wagon) version is no longer sold in North America, likely due to poor sales of the W203 model.^[19]

The Mercedes E-class coupe (W207) shares its platform with the C-class.^[3]

Trim Levels

The W204 C-Class has four trim levels of equipment - Classic, Elegance, Avantgarde and AMG. The Classic is the base trim with Brighton cloth seats while the Elegance has ARTICO leather (vinyl) upholstery standard. The Classic and Elegance lines retain the traditional Mercedes-Benz radiator grille usually on sedan models, with a three-point star bonnet emblem, and is designed to appeal to regular luxury buyers. The Avantgarde and AMG have a grille similar to that on Mercedes' sport coupe models, with two horizontal bars and a large centre-mounted star, plus there is additional equipment such as an AMG bodykit, lower sport suspension, upgraded brake piston calipers, and larger alloy wheels, and these trim lines are intended to position the C-Class as a sports sedan. Unlike previous generations of the C-Class and other contemporary Mercedes sedans which stayed with the traditional grille and hood ornament, the W204's advertising predominantly features the sport grille with the large star and AMG bodykit, especially in Canada and the United States.

In the UK the Classic line is known as the SE, while the Avantgarde line is known as the Sport which has a AMG bodykit and AMG alloy wheels as standard.^[20]

In the United States, the Elegance is known as the C-Class Luxury, while the Avantgarde wearing the AMG sports package is known as the C-Class Sport, and there is no Classic trim. Both lines have an additional amber light in front of the front wheel well.

In Canada, only the AMG trim name is used (not the Classic, Elegance, Avantgarde, Sport, or Luxury). The base C230 (C250 from 2010 model year onward) is the only model that has the traditional grille and three-point star hood ornament, while the other C-Class models (C300, C350, C63) all have the AMG bodykit and sport grille standard (these are optional on the C230 via the Sport Package).

For the 2011 model year onwards, the bumper fog lamps in the AMG bodykit have been replaced by LED lights, except for the C63 AMG which retains its unique bumper.

Powertrain

Versions of the car are available with a choice of rear- and all-wheel drive (the AWD system is the fourth-generation 4MATIC system, not available in right-hand drive format), along with a variety of four and six-cylinder engines (and a 6.2 litre V8 in the C 63 AMG). Engines are the straight-4 M271 and V6 M272 petrol engines, straight-4 OM611 + OM651, and V6 OM642 Diesel engines. Most of the engines are from the W203 C-class, but the C180K, C200K, C200 CDI & C220 CDI derivatives have increased power outputs, also with improvements with respect to emissions and fuel consumption. A high performance AMG version, the C63 AMG, followed in September 2007, and it has a 6.2 L engine with 457 PS (336 kW; 451 hp) to rival the Audi RS4 and BMW M3.

A five speed automatic transmission is available for the four cylinder models, a six-speed manual transmission is standard on all models except the C350, the 7G-Tronic seven speed automatic is available for C230K, C280, C300, C320 CDI and standard for C350. In the United States, the C300 Luxury and C350 Sport are only available with 7G-Tronic automatic transmission, and the C300 Sport comes with a six-speed manual transmission, and the 7G-Tronic automatic is an option. In Canada, 7G-Tronic automatic transmission is standard on 4MATIC models. The C63 AMG has the 7G-Tronic with AMG SpeedShift enhancements.

The 4MATIC Models include C230 4MATIC, C300 4MATIC, and the C350 4MATIC. All of the rest of the engines, including the C63 AMG, are only rear wheel drive.

There is a special system exclusive to this class, named 'Agility control' package, which through its unique concept provides drivers with excellent agility and ride quality. It achieves this feat through a hydro-mechanical set up, which constantly analyzes road conditions and driving 'habits', then it adjusts damper & suspension settings accordingly to provide the driver the best possible balance between ride comfort and agility. Buyers can opt for 'Advanced agility control' package. This system is an upgrade to the standard one, offering a 'sport' mode button.

AMG model

The C63 AMG is reportedly the first AMG-Mercedes designed from the ground up for performance, as compared to previous AMG cars which essentially featured "bolt on" performance modifications. The C63 has a revised front end architecture that is taken from the CLK63 AMG Black Series.^[21] The 7G-Tronic has AMG SpeedShift with three shift modes - Comfort, Sport and Manual - with the last one running with the converter locked allowing the driver to hold the engine at the rev limit. The ESP can now be completely turned off, interfering only under heavy braking. The car also has the quickest, most responsive steering of any Mercedes to date. Car and Driver tested the car in their December 2007 issue and recorded a 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 12.3 seconds at 116 mph (187 km/h).^[22] This made the C63 AMG the quickest 4-door production sedan in the world at its debut. In 2010, Mercedes-AMG introduced a new "AMG P31 Development Package" for an extra $6,050, which ups the power to 480 hp (360 kW) compared to 450 hp (340 kW) for the standard model. Top speed has increased to 174 mph (280 km/h). When equipped with this package, the C63 AMG features a revised ECU and crankshaft.^[23]

For the 2011 model year, a limited-edition C63 AMG was introduced by the Mercedes-Benz Specialist Products division, dubbed the "DR520". This is the most powerful version of the C-Class to date, with a power rating of 520 hp (390 kW) and 480 ft·lbf (650 N·m)) of torque. The DR520 is exclusive to the UK market, with production limited to only 20 units.^[24][25]

C-Class crash test ratings

EuroNCAP adult occupant[26]:
EuroNCAP child occupant:
EuroNCAP pedestrian:
IIHS overall frontal offset score[27]:	Good
IIHS overall side crash test score[28]:	Good

NHTSA crash test ratings (2007)^[29]

Frontal Driver:
Frontal Passenger:
Side Driver:
Side Rear Passenger:
Rollover:

Petrol engines Version Engine Cyl. Power C 180 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY 1.6 16V M271 S4 156 PS (115 kW; 154 hp) C 200 CGI 1.8 16V M271 S4 184 PS (135 kW; 181 hp) C 230 (C 250 in Japan and Canada, C 260 in China) 2.5 24V M272 V6 204 PS (150 kW; 201 hp) C 300 3.0 24V M272 V6 231 PS (170 kW; 228 hp) C 350 3.5 M272 24V V6 272 PS (200 kW; 268 hp) C 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY 3.5 24V direct injection M272 V6 292 PS (215 kW; 288 hp)[30] C 63 AMG 6.2L-6,208cc 32V M156 V8 457 PS (336 kW; 451 hp), 487 PS (358 kW; 480 hp) (with optional AMG P31 Development Package)

Diesel engines Version Engine Cyl. Power C 200 CDI 2.1 16V CDI OM611 S4 136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) C 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY[31] 2.1 16V CDI OM651 S4 136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) C 220 CDI 2.1 16V CDI OM611 S4 170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp) C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Prime Edition[32] 2.1 16V OM651 twin turbo CDI S4 204 PS (150 kW; 201 hp) C 350 CDI 3.0 24V CDI OM642 V6 224 PS (165 kW; 221 hp)

since November 2009, the new CGI engines replaced the kompressor engines, with the same output, more torque, and better fuel efficiency. the C 250 CGI, using an M271 engine with charged gasoline injection engine replaced the C 230 2.5 V6 engine, with same output but with more torque.

Awards

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz C Class was awarded Car of the Year in Australia by Wheels Magazine, edging out the Ford Mondeo and Mazda 2 for the award.^[33] It was also awarded "Executive Car Of The Year" by Top Gear Magazine for the 2007 Top Gear Awards.

Motorsport

C-Class DTM 2006 (W203) specifications

• Chassis: Tubular grid frame with steel roof and sides; other body parts such as doors, hood, fenders and rear cover made from CFK; integrated driver safety cell and defined front, rear and lateral crash structures.
• Length: 4,872 mm (192 in).
• Height: 1,255 mm (49 in).
• Width: 1,844 mm (73 in).
• Weight: 1,030 kg (2,271 lb) (with driver).
• Engine: Custom-built Mercedes-Benz V8 engine, 90 degrees, 2xDOHC, 9,000 rpm rev-limit, 4-valves per cylinder.
• Displacement: 4.0 L (4,000 cc) (245 in³).
• Exhaust systems: Remus three-way catalytic converter.
• Aerodynamics: Aerodynamic modifications to front apron and side panels, flat underfloor, rear diffusor, standardized double-profile rear aerofoil.
• Springs: H&R.
• Fuel capacity: 14.3 imp gal (65 L; 17 US gal).
• Fuel: Aral Ultimate 100% octane (RON) super-unleaded.
• Injector: Fuel injection.
• Oil: Mobil 1 dry sump.
• Pistons: Mahle.
• Radiator fluid: Würth.
• Aspiration: Normally aspirated.
• Power output: 476 hp (355 kW; 483 PS) at 7,500/min.
• Torque: over 490 N·m (360 ft·lbf).
• Tires: Dunlop SP Sport Maxx, front: 265/660-R18, rear: 280/660-R18.
• Steering: Rack-and-pinion steering with power assistance.
• Brakes: AP Racing standardized carbon brake system without ABS.
• Clutch: Sandtler 3-plate carbon-fibre clutch.
• Intake air restrictors: diameter of 2 x 28 mm (1.1 in).
• Safety equipment: BOSS seatbelt 6-point, HANS device.
• Transmission/Gearbox: Carbon-fiber cardan shaft Three-disc carbon-fiber clutch, mechanically operated via a foot-operated pedal Standardized Xtrac six-speed transmission with sequential gearshift, transaxle configuration with mechanical differential lock Rear-wheel drive without acceleration skid control.
• Wheel suspension: Double wishbones with spring/damper units on the front and rear axles, actuated via pushrods.
• Wheel rims: ATS Aluminum wheels with a diameter of 18 inches and a width of 11 inches on the front axle / 12 inches on the rear axle; standardized tires with a diameter of 660 mm on front and rear axles.
• ECU: Bosch MS 2.9.
• Traction control: Yes.
• Ignition: H.W.A CDI plug switchable on/off engine.

Source: http://www3.mercedes-benz.com/mbcom_v4/xx/motorsport/en.html#/series/2/technology/id/6/chapter/details

FIA Formula One

In addition to a modified SLS AMG for the official safety car, the FIA utilise several C63 estates for medical cars that are stationed around the track in case of an accident. At the 2009 Brazilian Grand Prix, these cars were used for inspecting the track in the extreme weather that interrupted proceedings.

Concepts

Siemens, employing prototype hybrid technology, showed off a modified Mercedes C-Class Sport Coupe that boasts faster acceleration, more torque—and better fuel economy—than its gasoline-powered equivalent. However, the company admitted that the car was "far from ready for production", and too expensive to manufacture or sell.

Karmann also showed a concept of the W203 Sportcoupe (prefacelift), which was turned into a convertible car with softtop. This prototype never reached the productionstatus.

Notes

References

• Mercedes and AMG - Performance Partners, March 1998
• Mercedes unveils the new C-class, January 2007

External links

• Official Mercedes-Benz C-Class UK Page
• Mercedes C Class Overview
• Official C-Class microsite (UK)

Class	Model	Body	1980s										1990s										2000s										2010s
			0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0
Small	A	Hatch																			W168							W169
Small	B																											W245
Compact	C	Saloon			W201											W202								W203							W204
		Estate																	S202					S203							S204
Executive	E	Saloon	W123					W124										W210							W211							W212
		Limousine	V123										V124																				V212
		Estate	S123						S124										S210							S211							S212
Luxury	S	Saloon	W126											W140								W220							W221
		Limousine	V126											V140								V220							V221
		Pullman	W100																	VF140			VF220										VF221
		Landaulet																		A140
Compact	CLC | C	Coupé																						CL203							CL203
Executive	CLK | E		C123							C124									C208							C209						C207
		Cabriolet												A124						A208							A209						A207
	CLS	Coupé																											W219
Luxury	CL		C107		C126										C140							C215							C216
Sports	SLK	Roadster																			R170								R171
	SL		R107									R129														R230
Exotic	SLS	Coupé																															C197
	SLR																									C199
		Roadster																												R199
		Speedster																														Z199
Small	Vaneo	MPV																							W414
Executive	Viano																		W638								W639
Luxury	R																												V251
Compact	GLK	SUV																													X204
Executive	M																				W163								W164
Luxury	GL																												X164
Utility	G		W460											W461
													W463
	Vito	LCV																	Vito								Vito
	Sprinter		T1															W901 - W905											NCV3
	Vario		T2						T2										W670