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Mercedes-Benz C-class W203, facelift 2004 C 180 Kompressor (143 Hp) Automatic
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)
W203, facelift 2004 Overview:
Mercedes-Benz C-class (W203, facelift 2004). With 220 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~11.8 l/100km). With a weight of 1410 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 9.9 s). The top speed reaches 220 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 180 Kompressor (143 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Adequate for city driving, but can feel strained on the highway with full load.
Fuel Economy
Moderate fuel consumption for the power, not the most economical option.
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 180 Kompressor (143 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | April, 2004 |
| End of production: | March, 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 143 Hp @ 5200 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 79.6 Hp/l [2mm less] |
| Torque: | 220 Nm @ 2500-4200 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 271.946 More details about the engine M 271.946 |
| Engine displacement: | 1796 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 5.5 l |
| Coolant: | 8 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 82 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 85 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.2:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 11.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 5.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC): | 7.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC): | 11.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC): | 5.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 7.9 l/100 km |
| Emission standard: | Euro 4 |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 220 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 6.4 kg/Nm, 156 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 9.4 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1410 |
| Max. weight: | 1965 |
| 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: | 740 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 Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R 16 V |
| Wheel rims size | 7 J x 16 H 2 |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
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