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Mercedes-Benz C-class W203 C 180 (129 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)
W203 Overview:
Mercedes-Benz C-class (W203). With 190 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1380 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 10.1 s). The top speed reaches 210 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.
The W203 C-Class achieved a commendable 5-star rating for adult occupant protection in its 2002 Euro NCAP test, setting a high standard for safety in its segment at the time.
C 180 (129 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Adequate power for city driving, but can feel strained on highways, especially when loaded.
Fuel Economy
Higher fuel consumption compared to diesels, and not particularly efficient for its power output.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Excellent ride comfort and refinement, typical of Mercedes-Benz.
- • High-quality interior materials and solid build feel.
- • Wide range of efficient diesel and powerful petrol engines.
- • Strong safety record with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating.
- • Timeless design that still looks elegant today.
Cons:
- • Early models are prone to rust, especially around wheel arches and boot lid.
- • Known for electronic issues, particularly with the COMAND system and various sensors.
- • Maintenance and parts can be expensive, reflecting its premium brand.
- • Some petrol engines have high fuel consumption.
- • Automatic transmissions can be slow and less efficient than modern units.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(W202: August, 1996 - June, 1997).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | C-class |
| Generation: | W203 |
| Modification (Engine): | C 180 (129 Hp) |
| Start of production: | August, 2000 |
| End of production: | August, 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 129 Hp @ 5300 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 64.6 Hp/l [39mm more] |
| Torque: | 190 Nm @ 4000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 111.951 More details about the engine M 111.951 |
| Engine displacement: | 1998 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 7 l |
| Coolant: | 8 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 89.9 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 78.7 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.6:1 |
| Maximum engine speed: | 6200 rpm. |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 13.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 6.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC): | 9.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC): | 13.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC): | 6.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 9.4 l/100 km |
| Emission standard: | Euro 3 |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 210 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.3 kg/Nm, 137.7 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 9.6 sec |
| 100 km/h - 0: | 37.6 m |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1380 |
| Max. weight: | 1935 |
| 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: | 725 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4526 mm [39mm more] |
| Width: | 1728 mm [8mm more] |
| Height: | 1426 mm [12mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2715 mm [25mm more] |
| 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 | 6 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 288 mm [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 278 mm [above average] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R 15 91 H |
| Wheel rims size | 6 J x 15 H 2 |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
Does the Mercedes-Benz C-class live up to the hype? Give us your verdict!