Mercedes-Benz C-class W203 C 320 V6 (218 Hp) Automatic


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 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.

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 320 V6 (218 Hp) Automatic Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Strong and effortless performance from the V6, providing rapid acceleration and smooth power delivery.

Fuel Economy

High fuel consumption, typical for a powerful V6 petrol engine of this era.

Best Use Case: Performance cruising / Executive travel

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: March, 1997 - May, 2000).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:C-class
Generation:W203
Modification (Engine):C 320 V6 (218 Hp) Automatic
Start of production:March, 2000
End of production:March, 2004
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 [10mm more]
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
Maximum engine speed:6000 rpm.
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:16.1 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC):10.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC):16.1 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC):7.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:10.8 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
100 km/h - 0:39 m
Space:
Kerb Weight:1490
Max. weight:2045
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 [10mm more]
Width:1728 mm mm [5mm more]
Height:1427 mm mm [32mm more]
Wheelbase:2715 mm mm [25mm more]
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 ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs, 300 mm [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc, 290 mm [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size205/55 R 16 91 W
Wheel rims size7 J x 16 H 2
Front suspensionIndependent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer

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