Mercedes-Benz C-class W203 C 220 CDI (143 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.7 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 3.5 / 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 Overview:

Mercedes-Benz C-class (W203). With 340 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~8.3 l/100km). With a weight of 1445 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 10.3 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.

Safety Rating
Euro NCAP Year 2002
Adult Occupant 5 stars (Adult Occupant)
Stars 5
Expert Note:
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 220 CDI (143 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Strong and efficient, the manual gearbox allows for more engaging and direct power delivery.

Fuel Economy

Excellent fuel economy, making it one of the most economical choices for its performance level.

Best Use Case: Mixed driving / Economical enthusiast

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(Sport Coupe (CL203): May, 2002 - March, 2004).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:C-class
Generation:W203
Modification (Engine):C 220 CDI (143 Hp)
Start of production:May, 2003
End of production:March, 2004
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:143 Hp @ 4200 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:66.6 Hp/l [183mm more]
Torque:340 Nm @ 2000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:OM 646.963 More details about the engine OM 646.963
Engine displacement:2148
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:6.5 l
Coolant:8.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:88 mm mm
Piston Stroke:88.3 mm mm
Compression ratio:18:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:8.3 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:4.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC):5.9 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC):8.3 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC):4.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:5.9 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 3
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:10.3 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:10.3 sec
Maximum speed:220 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:10.1 kg/Hp, 99 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.3 kg/Nm, 235.3 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:9.8 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1445
Max. weight:2000
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:750 kg
Size:
Length:4526 mm mm [183mm more]
Width:1728 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1426 mm mm [29mm 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 ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size195/65 R 15 91 V
Wheel rims size6 J x 15 H 2
Front suspensionIndependent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer

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