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Mercedes-Benz C-class W202, facelift 1997 C 280 V6 (197 Hp)
Overall Rating
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)
W202, facelift 1997 Overview:
Mercedes-Benz C-class (W202, facelift 1997). With 265 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1430 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8.3 s). The top speed reaches 232 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 280 V6 (197 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Smooth and strong V6 power provides confident acceleration and effortless cruising.
Fuel Economy
High fuel consumption is a trade-off for its performance, typical for a V6 of this period.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Excellent build quality and robust engineering for its age
- • Comfortable and refined ride quality, typical Mercedes-Benz luxury
- • Wide range of engines, from economical diesels to powerful AMG V8s
- • Classic, understated styling that has aged gracefully
- • Generally good reliability, though age-related issues can arise
Cons:
- • Dated safety features compared to modern standards (no Euro NCAP rating)
- • Petrol engines, especially V6 and V8, can be very thirsty
- • Prone to rust in common areas (e.g., wheel arches, door bottoms)
- • Interior technology is basic by modern standards
- • Some parts can be expensive due to Mercedes-Benz branding
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(W206: May, 2022 - April, 2024).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | C-class |
| Generation: | W202, facelift 1997 |
| Modification (Engine): | C 280 V6 (197 Hp) |
| Start of production: | November, 1996 |
| End of production: | May, 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 197 Hp @ 5800 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 70.4 Hp/l [275mm less] |
| Torque: | 265 Nm @ 3000-4800 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 112 E 28 / 112.920 More details about the engine M 112 E 28 / 112.920 |
| Engine displacement: | 2799 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 3 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 8 l |
| Coolant: | 9.5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 89.9 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 73.5 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 14.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 10.1 l/100 km |
| Emission standard: | Euro 3 |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 232 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 7.3 kg/Hp, 137.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.4 kg/Nm, 185.3 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 7.9 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1430 |
| Max. weight: | 1910 |
| Max. roof load: | 100 kg |
| Max load: | 480 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 430 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 1500 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 62 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 715 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4516 mm mm [275mm less] |
| Width: | 1723 mm mm [101mm less] |
| Height: | 1427 mm mm [23mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2690 mm mm [175mm less] |
| Front track: | 1499 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1464 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 10.74 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15; 7J x 15 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
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