Mercedes-Benz C-class W203, facelift 2004 AMG C 55 V8 (367 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 510 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1560 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is excellent (0–100 km/h in 5.2 s). The top speed reaches 250 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.

AMG C 55 V8 (367 Hp) Automatic Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Blistering acceleration and thrilling V8 power, a true performance machine.

Fuel Economy

Very high fuel consumption, as expected for a high-performance AMG V8.

Best Use Case: Enthusiast driving, track days, spirited road use.

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: May, 2003 - March, 2004).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:C-class
Generation:W203, facelift 2004
Modification (Engine):AMG C 55 V8 (367 Hp) Automatic
Start of production:May, 2004
End of production:February, 2007
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:367 Hp @ 5750 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:67.5 Hp/l [85mm more]
Torque:510 Nm @ 4000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 113.988 More details about the engine M 113.988
Engine displacement:5439
Number of cylinders:8
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:8.5 l
Coolant:11.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:97 mm mm
Piston Stroke:92 mm mm
Compression ratio:11:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:17.3 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:8.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC):11.9 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC):17.3 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC):8.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:11.9 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 4
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:5.2 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:5.2 sec
Maximum speed:250 km/h, Electronically limited
Weight-to-power ratio:4.3 kg/Hp, 235.3 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:3.1 kg/Nm, 326.9 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:4.9 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1560
Max. weight:2115
Max. roof load:100 kg
Max load:555
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:455 l
Fuel tank capacity:62 l
Size:
Length:4611 mm mm [85mm more]
Width:1744 mm mm [16mm more]
Height:1412 mm mm [14mm less]
Wheelbase:2715 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Width including mirrors:1980 mm
Front track:1507 mm
Rear (Back) track:1478 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 brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires sizeFront wheel tires: 225/40 R 18
Wheel rims sizeFront wheel rims: 7.5 J x 18 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!