Click on image to view the full photo gallery
Mercedes-Benz C-class W203, facelift 2004 C 320 V6 (218 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 308 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1490 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.8 s). The top speed reaches 245 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 320 V6 (218 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Good power and refined operation, providing effortless acceleration.
Fuel Economy
High fuel consumption, typical for an older, larger petrol V6.
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 320 V6 (218 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | April, 2004 |
| End of production: | June, 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 218 Hp @ 5700 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 68.1 Hp/l [2mm less] |
| Torque: | 308 Nm @ 3000-4800 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 112.946 More details about the engine M 112.946 |
| Engine displacement: | 3199 |
| 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: | 10.5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 89.9 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 84 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 14.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC): | 10.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC): | 14.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC): | 7.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 10.2 l/100 km |
| Emission standard: | Euro 4 |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 245 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 6.8 kg/Hp, 146.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.8 kg/Nm, 206.7 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 7.4 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1490 |
| Max. weight: | 2035 |
| Max. roof load: | 100 kg |
| Max load: | 545 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 455 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 1800 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: | 1427 mm mm [12mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2715 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Width including mirrors: | 1980 mm |
| Front track: | 1493 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1464 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 |
Rate the Mercedes-Benz C-class from 1 to 10!