Mercedes-Benz C-class W204 C 280 V6 (231 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC


Overall Rating

8.5 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 4.2 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 4.5 / 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)

W204 Overview:

Mercedes-Benz C-class (W204). With 300 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1560 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.2 s). The top speed reaches 246 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 2007
Adult Occupant Excellent
Stars 5
Expert Note:
The W204 C-Class achieved a top 5-star Euro NCAP rating in 2007, demonstrating strong adult occupant protection for its era.

C 280 V6 (231 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Strong and smooth V6 performance, enhanced by 4MATIC all-wheel drive for confident traction.

Fuel Economy

Moderate fuel consumption for a V6 AWD, typical for its power output and era.

Best Use Case: Mixed driving, especially in varied weather conditions or for those seeking assured grip.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Excellent build quality and premium interior materials.
  • • Comfortable ride quality, ideal for long journeys.
  • • Wide range of efficient and powerful engine options, including AMG.
  • • Strong safety record with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating.
  • • Timeless design that still looks modern.

Cons:

  • • Some early V6 petrol engines (M272) had balance shaft issues.
  • • Potential for rust on older models, particularly around wheel arches.
  • • Infotainment system can feel dated compared to newer cars.
  • • Rear passenger space is somewhat limited for taller adults.
  • • Maintenance costs can be higher than some competitors.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Sport Coupe (CL203, facelift 2004): 2004 - 2008).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:C-class
Generation:W204
Modification (Engine):C 280 V6 (231 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC
Start of production:2007
End of production:2009
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:231 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:77.1 Hp/l [238mm more]
Torque:300 Nm @ 2500-5000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 272.948 More details about the engine M 272.948
Engine displacement:2996
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:8 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:88 mm
Piston Stroke:82.1 mm
Compression ratio:11.3:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:13.4-13.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7.2-7.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC):9.4-9.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC):13.4-13.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC):7.2-7.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:9.4-9.6 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 4
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7.2 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7.2 sec
Maximum speed:246 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:6.8 kg/Hp, 148.1 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.2 kg/Nm, 192.3 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6.8 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1560
Max. weight:2120
Max load:560
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:475 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):1800 kg
Fuel tank capacity:66 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:750 kg
Size:
Length:4581 mm [238mm more]
Width:1770 mm [42mm more]
Height:1447 mm [41mm more]
Wheelbase:2760 mm [45mm more]
Width including mirrors:2020 mm
Front track:1549 mm
Rear (Back) track:1552 mm
Front overhang:765 mm
Rear overhang:1056 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.84 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears7
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeG-TRONIC
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 size205/55 R16
Wheel rims size7J x 16
Front suspensionIndependent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer

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