Mercedes-Benz C-class W203, facelift 2004 C 220 CDI (150 Hp) Automatic


Overall Rating

8.1 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 3.8 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Mercedes-Benz C-class:

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a series of compact executive cars produced by Mercedes-Benz Group AG. Introduced in 1993 as a replacement for the 190 range, the C-Class was the smallest model in the marque's line-up until the W168 A-Class arrived in 1997. The C-Class has been available with a "4MATIC" four-wheel drive option since 2002. The third generation was launched in 2007 while the current W206 generation was launched in 2021.
Initially available in sedan and a station wagon configurations, a fastback coupé variant followed and was later renamed to Mercedes-Benz CLC-Class. It remained in production until 2011 when a new W204 C-Class coupé replaced it for the 2012 model year....(Read more on Wikipedia)

W203, facelift 2004 Overview:

Mercedes-Benz C-class (W203, facelift 2004). With 340 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.2 l/100km). With a weight of 1465 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 10.3 s). The top speed reaches 218 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

C 220 CDI (150 Hp) Automatic Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Adequate power for daily driving, smooth delivery with the automatic transmission.

Fuel Economy

Very good fuel economy for a premium sedan, making it a cost-effective choice.

Best Use Case: Highway cruising, mixed driving.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Refined ride quality and comfortable interior for its class.
  • • Wide range of efficient diesel and powerful petrol engines available.
  • • Solid build quality and prestigious brand image.
  • • Improved styling and technology after the facelift.
  • • Excellent highway cruiser with good stability.

Cons:

  • • Some engines (M271, M272) have known reliability issues (e.g., balance shaft, timing chain).
  • • Can be expensive to maintain and repair, especially for older models.
  • • Rear passenger space is somewhat limited compared to rivals.
  • • Older models might suffer from rust issues, particularly around wheel arches.
  • • Infotainment system feels dated by modern standards.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(W203: April, 2001 - March, 2004).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:C-class
Generation:W203, facelift 2004
Modification (Engine):C 220 CDI (150 Hp) Automatic
Start of production:April, 2004
End of production:April, 2005
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:150 Hp @ 4200 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:69.8 Hp/l [2mm less]
Torque:340 Nm @ 2000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:OM 646.963 More details about the engine OM 646.963
Engine displacement:2148
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:6.5 l
Coolant:8.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:88 mm mm
Piston Stroke:88.3 mm mm
Compression ratio:18:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:9.2 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC):6.9 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC):9.2 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC):5.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:6.9 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 3
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:10.3 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:10.3 sec
Maximum speed:218 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:9.8 kg/Hp, 102.4 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.3 kg/Nm, 232.1 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:9.8 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1465
Max. weight:2020
Max. roof load:100 kg
Max load:555
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:455 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):1500 kg
Fuel tank capacity:62 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:750 kg
Size:
Length:4526 mm mm [2mm less]
Width:1728 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1426 mm mm [11mm more]
Wheelbase:2715 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Width including mirrors:1980 mm
Front track:1505 mm
Rear (Back) track:1476 mm
Front overhang:755 mm
Rear overhang:1056 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.76 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size205/55 R 16 V
Wheel rims size7 J x 16 H 2
Front suspensionIndependent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer

The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Mercedes-Benz C-class!