Overview & Reviews

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class, or the "Baby Benz" as it is affectionately known, has been a favorite of entry-level luxury/sport sedan buyers for years. More than just a small sedan with a few three-pointed stars thrown on it, the C-Class provides the core strengths of the brand, such as cutting-edge safety features, lively performance and a feeling of solidity. Fans of ultra-high performance have been thrilled by the AMG versions, which boast blistering acceleration and tenacious handling along with tastefully sporty styling accents.

Style plays into the equation of the small Benz's appeal as well, with the C-Class drawing inspiration from bigger Benzes. The front and rear fascias are instantly recognizable as part of the Mercedes family. In the recent past, the cabin of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class wasn't up to the car's traditional standards in terms of quality, but Mercedes has rectified the situation on the latest generation of the car.

Current Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is available in five trim levels that correspond to powertrain: C250, C300 4Matic, C350, C63 AMG and C63 AMG Black series (coupe only). The C250 and C300 are further available in Luxury and Sport sub-trims, which share engines but differ in exterior styling elements, suspension tuning, interior trim and front seat design.

The C250 comes with a 201-horsepower, turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder that returns 25 mpg combined. Every C-Class comes standard with a seven-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with the exception of the C300, which comes with "4Matic" all-wheel drive attached to its 228-hp 3.0-liter V6. The C350 gets a 302-hp 3.5-liter V6 that still manages 23 mpg combined.

The C63 AMG has a 6.2-liter V8 good for 451 hp, or 481 when equipped with the AMG Development package. Other performance upgrades include a seven-speed automated manual transmission, a wider front track, revised steering and suspension, meaty 18-inch wheels, upgraded brakes and aggressively bolstered seats. There are also noticeable exterior styling differences. The C63 AMG Black Series coupe goes even further with these performance upgrades and gets a 510-hp version of the same AMG V8.

Standard or optional equipment is extensive on the C-Class, and indeed many of the upscale luxury, convenience and safety features available on more expensive Benz models can be had on the C-Class. A similar sentiment applies to this car's level of engineering, craftsmanship and interior quality, as you rarely get the impression you're getting a lesser Mercedes just because you purchased the cheapest one.

In reviews, we've been very impressed with the current Mercedes-Benz C-Class, especially in light of the many positive improvements made for 2012. Whether you're looking for a comfy, extensively equipped luxury sedan or a dynamic, impressively engineered sport sedan, the C-Class has you covered throughout its range. Highlights include its diverse engine lineup, meticulous construction, refined ride and handling and good fuel economy. Cons include a relatively small backseat, all-wheel drive being available on the C300 and the fact that you have to pay a bit more for such engineering excellence. There are several incredibly impressive competitors that are also worth a look, but in total, we think any C-Class will stand tall in this very tough crowd.

Used Mercedes-Benz C-Class Models
The current third-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class debuted for the 2008 model year, and, with the exception of some extra equipment, went largely unchanged through 2011. In these first four model years, the C-Class was available as a sedan only and lacked the C250 model. Originally, the C300 came standard with rear-wheel drive and 4Matic was an option -- its output was the same as it is currently. The C350 produced 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, an output that trailed most of its competitors. Fuel economy was also worse than the current model. The C63's engine hasn't changed, but the transmission was originally a seven-speed traditional automatic.

Compared to the current model, the 2008-'11 C-Class' exterior styling was slightly different, particularly the front end, while the interior also differed. Although still quite nice, the overall design had less of a premium appearance, with less wood and metal trim present, and more black plastic. The dash was also dominated by a central panel that lifted up upon engine ignition, revealing either an LED radio display or a larger, pop-out navigation screen. The actual electronic controls, however, have largely remained the same.

The second-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class debuted in 2001 and lasted until 2007. Mercedes made a variety of changes to the numerous models and body styles during the car's lifespan. The initial models were the C240 (168-hp V6) and C320 (215-hp V6) sedans. These were joined the following year by a C320 wagon and the C230 Kompressor two-door hatchback coupe (192-hp supercharged four-cylinder). The C32 AMG also showed up for 2002 fitted with a 3.2-liter supercharged V6 producing 349 hp. Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel-drive system became available for 2003 on sedan and wagon body styles, while the C320 two-door hatchback, C240 wagon and supercharged C230 sedan arrived. A variety of Sport upgrades debuted for particular models for 2004, while the following year saw freshened exterior styling and a revised interior. The C32 AMG was also replaced for 2005 with the C55 AMG, which featured a 362-hp V8.

The biggest changes occurred for 2006, when the hatchback coupe and wagon were discontinued and a new selection of models and engines debuted that would remain with the car until it was replaced by the current C-Class. This was also the first year for the Sport and Luxury trim designations, which differed in wheel size, transmission choice, suspension tuning, styling elements and interior trim. The C230 Sport (201-hp V6) and C350 Sport (268-hp V6) were joined by the C350 Luxury (same engine as Sport) and the C280 Luxury (228-hp V6). 4Matic all-wheel drive was available on Luxury models.

Those considering this generation Mercedes C-Class probably won't regret their purchase, as there should be more than enough performance and luxury to satisfy them. As with the current model, savvy shoppers should know that other automakers, particularly those from Japan, offered roomier, less costly alternatives that equal or better this C-Class in performance and features, although certainly not status. This C-Class didn't exactly hold its value well, so there are certainly deals to be found. However, given the staggering amount of model designations, body styles, engines and feature content, it's important to make sure you know exactly what you're getting in a used C-Class.

The original Mercedes-Benz C-Class debuted in 1994 as a replacement for the small 190-Class sedan. With more room, a more luxurious cabin and styling that mimicked the larger E-Class, the first C-Class could be had with four-cylinder (C220) or six-cylinder (C280) power, with output ranging from 148 to 194 hp. There was no wagon offered at all during this generation's run (1994-2000). Safety has always been a priority with Mercedes, and as such the C-Class benefited from the early adoption of such technologies as stability control, emergency brake assist and side airbags. Performance of the base C rose through the years, as the 2.2-liter four gave way to a 2.3-liter, which was then replaced by a 2.3-liter supercharged unit.

The hot-rod AMG versions started in 1995 with the C36 that featured a 268-hp inline-6. Serious firepower arrived in 1998 with the debut of the C43, whose 4.3-liter V8 pumped out 302 hp. Die-hard enthusiasts should know that only automatic transmissions came with the AMGs, though this hardly hurt the performance of these fast little sedans.

Either way, used-car shoppers should know that the Mercedes C-Class historically scores well in crash tests, and ownership satisfaction is generally quite high, with consumers praising its handling, ride and reliability. However, maintenance is typically costly.

User Reviews:

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  1996 C Class - 1996 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By NEW320 - May 27 - 10:00 am

  Wiring harness gone at 125,000 miles. Very disappointing for MB.

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  Decent Entry Level Benz - 1999 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By benxguy - May 24 - 8:13 am

  Bought with 50000 miles and worked fine for 2 years. Needed $1500 schedule B at atbout 75000k but that solved the acceleration problems. Had to fix the crank sensor at 76000k and no one really knew the problem cause. $250 for that one, then the engine light at 80000k was the air sensor- not a big deal but cant get car inspected with an engine light on. Air sensors are $500 from MB but got one from ebay, plopped it in and problems went away. Now at 104k and have had no issues..oh yeah, watch front springs they break at 90k. Replaced those as well. Power seats work when they want to and now fuel gage is not working all the time- problem comes and goes so unknown cause. Get trans fluid chged!

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  our c32 - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By jhalz - May 20 - 10:00 am

  speedtronic tranny isnt useful for manual shifting - up or down. Kompressors whine can get pretty annoying if no stereo on. Faster than my blown 95 Carrera. Staggering high end speed. Straight line performnace is the envy of many a sports car. Very compliant ride over bumbs, giving the overall driveability a great compromise between sport and luxury. Handles neatly, although turn in not as crisp as id like. very good brakes. very comfortable. very content to cruise around town at 25mph and get great gas mileage or to tear it up on back country roads. keep ESP turned off unless its wet, out.

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  Great entry point to AMG - 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By jshoes - May 20 - 10:00 am

  This is the best small sedan from Europe. Easy car to drive fast. Comfortable ride despite performance. Nice size for the city.

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  C230 Kompressor Sport Coupe - 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Debbie - May 18 - 11:13 pm

  This is the most fun car to drive that I have ever owned. All the bells and whistles anyone could ask for. It hugs the road in turns and acceleration in this 4cyl. engine is excellent

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  Excellent car still going strong! - 2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By guile - May 16 - 9:43 am

  I bought my C240 after I totaled my 3- series BMW so the MB was not the same sporty performance ride, but its no slush box either. Interior is very comfortable with supportive seats in nice leather, typical of Mercedes at all levels. Power is produced via a 2.6 L V6, delivering 168 hp (not so bad back in 03, but hardly stellar) in a linear fashion. Its very smooth and the car doesnt feel like its on at idle (have to double check every now and then). Cons are the loud air conditioning. Only one problem with the cat converter and that was fixed under warranty. Just change the oil regularly (every 10k mi) and you should have no issues. My car was made in Brazil according to door jamb.

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  C280 Sport - 1996 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By CSport - May 13 - 10:00 am

  Sporty version of CClass was highly rated by car mags at the time I bought this car. I really wanted C-36 for the horsepower but couldnt afford it, so I settled for the Sport version. Ive never had a more comfortable long trip vehicle, never feeling tired or sore from 8 hours in the seat. I bought the car for the high engineering quality and was impressed with the tightness of the entire body structure. No creaks, rattles or squeaks. Sport package gave a lot of options for very little money and was worthwhile.

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  GREAT CAR - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By MERCEDES - May 13 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE THE CAR, VERY NICE BODY AND COMPUTER SYSTEMS.

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  NICE CAR - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By LILY - May 13 - 10:00 am

  COMFORTABLE CAR AND I LOVE IT.

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  Good, but... - 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  By Phil Sabah - May 13 - 10:00 am

  I got my 2002 C240 3 months ago, brand new from the dealer. I like the looks of it. when i went to pick it up, i noticed a malfunction msg on the board (Rear lamp), was a loose wire. Few weeks later, i had a tape stuck in the cassette, and took it back to the dealer. Now, three months later, i have 2200 miles on it, and drives good. Yestrday I noticed the left window button lost its one-touch charm, so i need to take it back..i also had 3 occurances where i hear a loud whistle when i start the car in the morning...the dealer couldnt pin-point the problem.