Mercedes-Benz C-class W203 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 Overview:
Mercedes-Benz C-class (W203). With 220 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~11.8 l/100km). With a weight of 1400 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.
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 Kompressor (143 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Smooth and responsive power delivery, offering a good balance for daily driving with automatic convenience.
Fuel Economy
Moderate fuel consumption, better than the non-Kompressor C180, but still higher than diesels.
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, facelift 1997: May, 1998 - May, 2000).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | C-class |
| Generation: | W203 |
| Modification (Engine): | C 180 Kompressor (143 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | May, 2002 |
| End of production: | March, 2004 |
| 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 [10mm more] |
| 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 |
| Piston Stroke: | 85 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: | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 6.4 kg/Nm, 157.1 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 9.4 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1400 |
| Max. weight: | 1955 |
| 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 [10mm more] |
| Width: | 1728 mm [5mm more] |
| Height: | 1426 mm [1mm less] |
| 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 | 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 | 195/65 R 15 91 V |
| Wheel rims size | 6 J x 15 H 2 |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |









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