Mercedes-Benz C-class W203, facelift 2004 C 230 Kompressor (189 Hp) (USA)


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 260 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~10.7 l/100km). With a weight of 1475 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

C 230 Kompressor (189 Hp) (USA) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Good mid-range torque thanks to the supercharger, adequate power for daily use.

Fuel Economy

Moderate fuel consumption, a balance between power and efficiency.

Best Use Case: Mixed driving, daily commute in urban and suburban areas.

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:

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:C-class
Generation:W203, facelift 2004
Modification (Engine):C 230 Kompressor (189 Hp) (USA)
Start of production:2004
End of production:2007
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:189 Hp @ 5800 rpm.
Power per litre:105.2 Hp/l
Torque:260 Nm @ 3500-4000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 271
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
Compression ratio:8.7:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:10.7 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7.8 l/100 km
Weight-to-power ratio:7.8 kg/Hp, 128.1 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.7 kg/Nm, 176.3 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:7.6 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1475
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:345 l
Size:
Length:4526 mm mm
Width:1728 mm mm
Height:1400 mm mm
Wheelbase:2715 mm mm
Front track:1493 mm
Rear (Back) track:1464 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.76 m
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires sizeFront wheel tires: 8.5J x 17
Wheel rims sizeFront wheel rims: 245/40 R17
Front suspensionIndependent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer

Every driver has a story. What’s yours with the Mercedes-Benz C-class?