Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedans

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  • netkimnetkim Member Posts: 1
    I am looking for the new 2003 C-class. Can anyone give me suggestion about C230 kompressor sedan and C240 sedan? Which one is good for my need? I am looking for a quiet, comfort car. Any different between two cars in the standard options? Power or performance is on second priority. Thanks very much.
  • jrct9454jrct9454 Member Posts: 2,363
    The C230k will be slightly quicker, more economical, better handling, and harder riding. The C240 will be slightly quieter, better riding, and softer. Depends on what you want.

    Also, the performance tires on the C230k can be expected to wear out about 50% faster than those on the C240, depending on which OEM tires are on each car.
  • richjenkinsrichjenkins Member Posts: 55
    Hiya, listen the test drive got derailed last week:( I've got some travel coming up so am not sure when I'll get back to the states...Good luck on your car and let us know how it is when you get it...take care...
  • richjenkinsrichjenkins Member Posts: 55
    Notwithstanding Tony and the other folks anxiously awaiting their orders for this years models, those of us still in the tyre kicking stages are perhaps wondering what changes in store for 2004...

    Here are my random thoughts for 2004 C class changes, what are yours?

    o Rationalisation of 3.5L V6 across line, replacing 3.2L
    o Deletion of "sport" versions of wagons
    o Deletion of 240 model entirely, being replace by a "non sport" version with 230K engine/5 spd autobox standard
    o Minor Trim and Exterior Restyling with styling cues taken from new E class - to include more rakish rump (can you say that on Edmunds?), redo headlight treatment to be more like new E, to yield an overall more coupe-like effect a la Alfa Romeo 155
    o Replacement of "roundy corner" standard wheel treatment with something with more "bite" to it
    o Replacement of current somewhat OTT sports wheel treatment with a more retro AMG monobloc look (or more like current C32 double spoke)
    o HID headlights to be installed across entire C class model line
    o Rain sensing wipers standard
    o Factory standard Optional CD or Cassette player stereo radio with upgraded stereo effects as standard
    o New C35 AMG with even more grunt!

    Opinions are my own, I am not an employee of DCX, your mileage may vary, etc
  • mac320mac320 Member Posts: 147
    There is no 3.5L engine ... MB's ML350 is a 3.7L engine, the V6 component part of MB's 500, as the 320 is based on the 430.

    In addition to a C350, there could be a C430 or a C500 as these already already exist in the CLK-Class and people buy them.

    In the past, there was a C43. I do not know anything about them--sounds good but it would be a niche car like the C32. The C320 already provides incredible power in all normal driving situations so it doesn't seem like the numbers involved for specialty C's would be very high.

    I think a diesel "C" would be the most likely addition to the fleet, to join the 45-state E-Class diesel that is due out by the end of this year.
  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,532
    I don't think they're going to get rid of the C240. It represents (to them) an entry level luxury V6. Plus it is the cheapest (sorry, least expensive) MB available with 4MATIC. The 4MATIC will definitely increase sales (at least here in the SUV/AWD-crazy Northeast).

    Making HIDs standard across the line will only increase the base price which they do not want to do. Keep 'em optional. Ditto with Rain sensing wipers. (Truth be told, if you want a car with more power and zero options check out an Acura TL Type S).

    C35 AMG: OVERKILL. The C32 (So cool, I saw a black one today...ultimate stealth mobile) is doing just fine. I still say they need to offer it with either a 6 speed manual or some type of SMG Transmission (like on the M3, Ferrari 360, Aston Martin Vanquish, & Maserati).

    I don't think they need to drop the 3.7L V6 in the car. The 3.2 is a great engine. I'd rather them spend money on better quality interior materials and handling/suspension upgrades.

    A V8 would make the C class way too nose heavy. The C32 is eons ahead of the old C43 in terms of performance.

    The next big change you will see across the entire MB lineup will be the new 4 valve/cylinder DOHC heads as opposed to the current 3 valve SOHC Head.

    2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD

  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    netkim,
    I'm going to ignore all of those "rumors" since my car just arrived in the states today and jump back to the sedan comparison question.
    The C230 Kompressor definitely gives the driver more feedback; in other words, the ride is more harsh and the road noise (due to the 17inch, low profile tires) is more prevalent within the cabin. However, I find the C240 to be too plush; lacking in a little feel and feedback that I crave. The C240 is also a little bit sluggish verses the 1.8L Kompressor engine in C230. Yet, taking into account what your post said, the C240 will give you that ride comfort you are looking for. It also comes standard with wood trim & 8 way power seats verses the aluminum trim and 4 way power seats in the sport sedan. The C230 also has bigger tires (as previously mentioned), additional body molding & front fascia treatment, and different door handles (no chrome trim). I lean, of course, towards the new sport sedan (which I ordered back at the end of January), but know that you will probably love a C240 and most likely get a better deal on one.

    Happy shopping!
  • valonvalon Member Posts: 22
    as i posted here i got my car wed night and as of today i have 100 miles on it,hmm where i should start... well as one i don't have no funny noises in the car its so quite that hardly can know that i started, i got too admit that i still didn't drive over 60mph but its smooth ride,handling is very good and getting in curves like no other car i ever drove and i did few of them..
    ohh driving the car in parkway that same night another silver one came close and a nice brunet was smiling (i did feel like the guy in that commercial )heheheh
    on and all no problems at all.
  • saabbersaabber Member Posts: 84
    I just got my C320. I love it. I understand that there is a computer mechanism that controls whether the A/C recirculates the air or takes in fresh air (based on outside temp, etc.). Is there any way to create a setting to always override the fresh air mechanism to the A/C so the air always recirculates, even when you turn the engine off and on. When I push the recirculation button and turn the engine off, it always comes on in the fresh air mode. Most other luxury cars (like my old 2000 Saab 9-5)allow you to fix a setting and keep it there for good. That would go for fan speed, etc. I live in Florida, and it saves gas to recirculate rather than take in fresh air that has to be cooled from the outside. You also always get a more powerful and quicker cooling in the recirculate mode. I hate to have to remember to always manually override the main setting. This is actually a small issue compared to my overall enjoyment of this great car. Any thoughts are appreciated.
  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,532
    Do the C230K & C320 Sport Sedans have different suspension settings than the C240 and C320 (&4Matics) or just larger wheels with lower profile tires? Do they have lower ride heights, stiffer shocks, springs, bushings, tighter steering ratios...?

    2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD

  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    Yes, the C230K & C320 sport sedans have a stiffer sport tuned suspension. I believe the ride heights are slightly lower as well. Not quite sure about steering ratios, etc. You can DEFINITELY tell the difference between the sport sedans and other C Class models in road noise, stiffer ride, etc.
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    Yes, the C230K & C320 sport sedans have a stiffer sport tuned suspension. I believe the ride heights are slightly lower as well. Not quite sure about steering ratios, etc. You can DEFINITELY tell the difference between the sport sedans and other C Class models in road noise, stiffer ride, etc.
  • pecclespeccles Member Posts: 52
    It would be nice if they would offer an in-dash CD
    player as standard equipment.
  • jrct9454jrct9454 Member Posts: 2,363
    No, you cannot leave it in Recirc mode forever - it's potentially dangerous [exhaust gas buildup in the cabin] and this is why MB defaults the system to fresh air on startup, and why there is a time limit on how long the system will let you use it.

    I cannot understand the rationale for keeping outside air shut off, except for brief periods for rapid cooling or heating, or noxious odors/fumes. In any case, MB believes this is a dangerous practice, and thus designs the system to make it impossible to do easily.
  • saabbersaabber Member Posts: 84
    I respectfully disagree that it is problematic (or dangerous) to leave the A/C in the recirculation mode. Otherwise, every car in the country or the world that has the recirculation feature would be a health hazard causing millions of injuries and lawsuits. As I stated, most other luxury car makers allow the driver to fix the settings because the A/C systems are a part of the ECU (computer) system. I am not sure that MB "believes that this is a dangerous practice" in light of the fact that they allow you to manually use the recirculation mode at any time and for as long as you would like (just not when you shut the engine off and on again). My request was for information that would allow the "driver" not MB to choose what mode the A/C starts in when you start up your vehicle. I am happy to take my chances as to whether I will be harmed by those "noxious fumes" in the cabin from having the air recirculate (I would like to believe that manufactuers, including MB, stopped making cars that had noxious fumes in the cabin many years ago).
    No insults intended. Just trying to get some information to make my C320 more enjoyable.
  • dill6dill6 Member Posts: 120
    am considering C230, but live in the snow zone - the salesman (who actually seemed a credible person) claims that with traction control and stability control this car will perform OK on snow WITH dedicated snow tires. True???
  • cpisanocpisano Member Posts: 23
    I will also have to agree with saaber. This cannot be the reason MB does not allow you to leave the A/C in recirc mode. My Chevy Suburban will automatically go into recirc mode when you put the A/C in max. You cannot get it out of recirc mode unless you turn the A/C down. I have a C320 also and am wondering why this cannot be done.
  • jdisanjdisan Member Posts: 28
    In my prior car the dealer had the "code" and then was able to reprogram the default setting. (in my case it was a warm up/fan default setting).

    I've got to say however, that is one road trip I would not want to be on. :)
  • rowlandjrowlandj Member Posts: 254
    I have a C320 and have been through the most recent NY (lower Hudson Valley) winter. I put on dedicated snow tires and I had a very easy time of it with the car. The snows help quite a bit and the stability control just adds to the level of confidence.

    No problems at all.

    JR
  • mac320mac320 Member Posts: 147
    jrc, you must be right. As you pointed out and the responder didn't seem to notice or read in the manual, even if you select recirc, it will not stay it that forever. However, when you say exhaust, are you talking about an accumulation CO2 or the chance of carbon monoxide due to some freak leak into the cabin? I assumed it was the former and a way to prevent sleepy drivers who might button up the car, which is no bigger than a compact, and drive at high altitude for a couple of hours, perhaps with a couple of additional occupants. But, even the latter is a real concern. I remember, years ago, Ford's econoline van killed people due to exhaust in closed cabins; however, the way those vans were made, the engine sat inside the cab, similar to the way motorhomes are built.
  • paul_ppaul_p Member Posts: 271
    On 2000 and previous MBs I believe OAT (outside air temperature) determines the length (short or long) of the "recirc on" cycle.

    Fwiw, in Mass. driver's ed (1977), we were taught that one should always leave a car window open slightly when the car's heater is on to offset the accidental introduction of Co2 into the cabin. While I do not subscribe to that practice, I do feel better not leaving the recirc on for extended periods for the same reason.

    That said, I do find the relativey short length of the timer values annoying, especially when driving the length of the northern NJ Turnpike and other places & I need to keep the smells out of the car for 1+ hours. C'est la vie.

      - Paul
  • jrct9454jrct9454 Member Posts: 2,363
    ...I've tried to answer the question from the perspective of Mercedes. You can agree or disagree with their reasoning, but the fact is that the system is NOT designed to be run in recirc continuously. Period.

    I've been buying their cars [14 in all] for 35 years, and their stance on this has been consistent: the [admittedly slim] chance of buildup of carbon monoxide in the cabin of a completely closed car means they will not allow fresh air to be completely closed out of the car indefinitely.

    I'm still mystified as to why doing so is desireable - I use recirc only when trying to get temp changes to occur quickly, or when somebody's crappy exhaust is blowing in my face at a stoplight. And I live in a climate that makes Florida look benign - our temps in the summer can be truly breathtaking. I respect your different opinion, but take it on faith that Mercedes does not. The original question was "how can it be done on an MB?" and the answer is "not at all without modifying the system".
  • saabbersaabber Member Posts: 84
    I do realize that things cannot always be perfect for everyone. This will have to be my one "quirk" with this car (as a former Saab owner, I was very use to "quirks"). As I stated ealier, the only reason that I would use the recirculate mode is to prevent the drain on horsepower, get better fuel economy, and get quicker cooling (as the AC is almost always on in South Florida). Is outside air better from a breathing perspective? No doubt. In the future, maybe MB will allow customers to "set" their AC to fit their own personal needs and uses.
    Best regards,
  • cpisanocpisano Member Posts: 23
    I did not mean to imply that MB does not use that as a reason why they do not allow you to keep the recirc on. It probably is. I just think it is silly. Over engineering is what I would call it, just the same as when you cycle through the menus on steering wheel. Do I need to be kept informed that PHONE IS NOT INSTALLED? If it's not installed just skip the screen, I can't do anything with it anyway.
  • kdenkden Member Posts: 2
    Okay back in August I purchased the ML 500(geez what a rocket for an SUV) and I absolutely love it, even though that is for the wife. We are now trading the Lexus SC 400 in for the C230 Sports Sedan, now I know that the off the line pick up is not going to be the same as Lexus but I am willing trade anyway, family is growing by one and there not really a back seat in the SC 400. I am concerned about some reviews of the C230 SS talking about the lurchyness of the transmission and the resale value. Has anyone had any problems in these areas? I only plan to keep the car for three years and then get E500. I will order my C230 tomorrow when the salesman is back at work.
    Also yesterday while I was at the dealership I happen to walk around out back and someone's new S600 V12 arrived. Now that is a luxury car with room to spare, the only problem is that things that cost that much usually come attached with a mortgage.
  • jrct9454jrct9454 Member Posts: 2,363
    Resale is down throughout the industry, due to both macroeconomics and the persistent use of incentives to drive new car sales. MB and BMW have actually suffered a little less from this syndrome than some others, but it has affected virtually everybody.

    As to the performance of the transmission, the learning feature in the software, if it works properly, pretty much assures that what you want, you get, at least after an appropriate amount of time in the car. There will be some turbo lag in the C230, but I think this has been blown out of proportion. Certainly, we are more than happy with the performance of our C240, and it is easily shaded by the turbo 1.8. Of course, coming out of a V8 like the SC, your expectations may be different than mine...
  • mbnut1mbnut1 Member Posts: 403
    The 230K has a supercharger not a turbo. As a result there is no "turbo lag" which is due to the time required to accelerate the free spinning turbo. The supercharger is directly connected to the engine. The absense of turbo lag is one of the advantages of supercharging over turbocharging
  • saabbersaabber Member Posts: 84
    Whether you call it turbocharging or supercharging, the bottom line is what you feel when you drive the car. I felt hesistation upon every start. The hesitation (rather than the acceleration) was a real dealbreaker for me because I was reminded of it every time I accelerated from a stop.
    Without the hesitation, I may have gone with the C230k (with certain add-ons) over the C320. For the price though, the C230K is a great deal.
  • dill6dill6 Member Posts: 120
    mbnut1 is correct, boost lag is virtually non-existant with a supercharger which is electrically driven vs. a turbo which is a passive device running off exhaust gas pressure. Every auto has some inherent lag regardless of its fuel delivery system however, even a Shelby Cobra - if you got truly instantaneous acceleration every time you hit the throttle you'd be burning rubber and spraining your neck with every start.

    I drive a turbo charged car right now (WRX) and I will say that at first I found the lag a bit frustrating and bothersome, but I got over it. I'm not interested in drag racing, and once you learn how to use it the turbo (or supercharger, though that's not really even an issue) is just fine for spirited driving. With turbo you MUST have manual transmission, however, IMO, to keep the revs in the proper range.
  • richjenkinsrichjenkins Member Posts: 55
    Robert - Did I understand correctly you bought a C320 over C230K because of the hesitation?

    Tony - Did you get your car yet? I went down to our dealership here in Central Fl and found *not a single* C230K!!! They had 10 or 12 each of C320 and C240 "regular", and 1 (one!) C320 sport with an autobox. I guess it tells you how popular the sport package is (or how unpopular the "regular" package is:) in this area anyways...all the best
  • richjenkinsrichjenkins Member Posts: 55
    Noticed tonight, for some reason, all the C class 0-60 times are on the MBZ web site...for the longest time I've not seen these for the C class. Interesting there's less and less difference between manual and auto the stronger the engine:

    C240A - 8.7s
    C240M - 8.2s

    C230KA - 7.8s
    C230KM - 7.6s

    C320A - 6.9s
    C320M - 6.8S

    All times for 4D sedan...
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    Hey Rich! I picked up my car last night and have been grinin' ever since. This is truly one amazing car. The ride, handling, seat comfort, Bose system, multi-function computer, 6 speed manual, are all perfect. It also looks pretty darn stunning in Alabaster white with the charcoal interior. This is the first white sport sedan that I have seen anywhere and I love it. (Keep in mind that I am still having trouble completing a single thought, MERCEDES BENZ SENSORY OVERLOAD!!:) My wife and I just finished an evening drive with the sunroof (moonroof tonight) open in the midst of a perfect 65 degree early spring night. With the fog lights on, the car sure does have a sweet look as it approaches would be prey (I drove my wife's car half the way home from the dealership so I could see how it looked from other vehicles. . .I am a sad case) I also loved the way that the only thing you see on the wheels while in motion are the large brake discs. . .cool effect. Of course, not a single negative thing to report yet, but as this prema-grin subsides from my face, I will let you guys know of any problem areas.

    I've gotta say, for the money, this is one awesome deal on a rear drive German sports sedan. My dealership had only 1 C230 sport sedan as well, and of course, mine was ordered, so I think the problem with finding them is universal. . .at least on the east coast.

    Lastly, I got my latest Automobile magazine in today and there is an article on the C230 sport sedan, and I quote:
    ". . .the C230 is the most entertaining, most agile C-class model. The suspension gives much better body control with seemingly no diminution of ride quality, and the car feels better balanced than the heavier V-6-powered cars. The C230 sedan finally reveals the inherent goodness of the C-class chassis: It feels like a real competitor to the BMW 325i."

    My sentiments exactly!!:)
    Later,
    Your Blissfully Happy (First time) Benz Owner
  • saabbersaabber Member Posts: 84
    Yes, the primary reason I went with the C320 over the C230k was the extra hesitation on the starts (I agree that all cars hesitate to some extent). The most important acceleration number for me is 0-30mph with light, then increasing pressure on the pedal at lower rpms (not 0-60 with the pedal floored, which I never do). A secondary reason for me to go with the C320 over the C230k was the bumpier ride and the tire noise with the bigger tires on the C230k (that's the trade off if you want the sportier ride and the sports suspension). IMHO, the C230K (or the C320 sports model) is clearly a better looking car than the C320/240 due to the bigger tires, but I am into the quiet cabin/luxury interior type of feeling. You really cannot go wrong though with either model.
  • nedzelnedzel Member Posts: 787
    jetta, do us all a favor and only use the fog lights when you're supposed to -- i.e., when it is foggy. Fog lights, particularly rear fog lights, are really annoying to other drivers.
  • jdisanjdisan Member Posts: 28
    Jetta - congrats. Sounds great. Mine is on the Boat as we speak.

    Re: front foglights..some use them all the time, some never use them ---- it's your car, use them whenever you want.
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    jdisan,
    Keep us informed as to when you car arrives. I look forward to hearing your first impressions.

    And as for you, nedzel, "do us all a favor" and don't be a buzzkill. If the little fog light on the rear of the car (which I don't leave on because a single red fog light looks silly) bothers you, you need to relax a little and learn to enjoy the little things, because face it, the front fogs on the new sport sedan just look AWESOME!:)

    Happy motoring and if I see you on the road, I will be sure to switch to high beams.
  • nedzelnedzel Member Posts: 787
    Jetta: The rear fog light in particular is quite distracting to other drivers -- it is as bright or brighter than your brake lights. At night, when driving behind a car with the rear fog light, I find it is bright enough to be almost painful to look at. The reason it is that bright is so that following cars can see it easily during fog. When there is no fog, then there is no reason to use it.

    The front foglights also add to the glare for other drivers at night. Turn them off and use them as they were designed to be used: during fog.

    Have some courtesy for other drivers on the road and turn off your foglights when not needed.
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    I told you I don't use that silly little red fog light on the back of the car, and thanks for the explanation as to what fog lights are for. . .

    And my courtesy to other drivers is to allow them to see just how cool my car looks when it is all lit up. Again, refer to my prior post, and stop being a buzzkill!! I love this car, I love the way it drives, I love the way it looks and I have never been bothered or annoyed by someone else having their fog lights on. Lightin' up man! Live a little!
  • patpat Member Posts: 10,421
    Uhh, folks -- this is not the place for personal squabbles. If you need to continue this, please take it off line.

    Thanks.
  • wc68wc68 Member Posts: 23
    Well you had your car for about a week now, what do think of it??? I still don't know where my car is??? Congrats again!!!
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    I am absolutely lovin' it! I wish it had not been raining all week, but those rain sensing windshield wipers work very well. I have put 600 miles on it already and have no complaints. I'm still amazed each time I get in it that it's mine. The 6 speed has been very easy to get used to and the braking and cornering is so precise. I have enjoyed the questions at the gas station and comments in various parking lots; the car attracts a lot more attention than I thought it would. I figured that since it had the same body style as the '01 & '02 C's, I might get a few comments about the wheels. . .but, also keep in mind that there are just not that many C Class' around here. Mainly E's and S's.

    My wife ordered all of the Mercedes Benz (manufactured by Meguires) car shampoo, wheel cleaner, interior cleaner, etc. and I look forward to cleaning it up this weekend when the sun comes back out.

    I'm really enjoying the car (I even don't mind the flimsy cup holder because it stays out of the way of my shifting) and I look forward to hearing your first impressions. When I get over the 1K mark and I really get to open it up, I will let you know of how I feel about the overall performance. . .for now, I'm just cruisin'.:)

    Later,
    Tony

    PS Just wanted to say "my bad" to the host, you're right, there is no need for it.
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    Quick question, I've been hoping to see an update on the review of the '03 C Class. I would love to know what edmunds thinks of the new C230 and C320 Sport Sedans. Especially how they feel about the 6 speed manual versions. Ever since the new C Class came out in '01, the biggest knock among car enthusiast was the lack of a manual transmission in the C320. Are there any plans in the near future to test drive one of these, or do you wait until there is an overhaul of the entire line?
    Thanks,
    Tony
  • patpat Member Posts: 10,421
    Tony - try writing to editor@edmunds.com. The Town Hall hosts don't usually know what the editors are up to. ;->
  • cjs2002cjs2002 Member Posts: 341
    I'm thinking about getting the newly introduced c 230 komprssor sedan "thing" :), but I'm not shirr... I like it cause its a benz and its relativly in my price range... also looking at the CTS... but its a bit more (more standard feats though)... but I like the looks of the C 230 so I wanted to know.... if any one has the sedan or coupe version of this car and what their likes and dislikes are.... thankx
  • paulaprypaulapry Member Posts: 1
    Im new to this forum and maybe this has been posted but I would really appreciate knowing what I can expect to pay out the door for a 2003 C230 Sedan. Has anyone ordered thru Costco? Cars Direct? Etc...
  • saabbersaabber Member Posts: 84
    The rumor is that the prices get better as you continue north from Miami. I bought my C320 in Pompano Beach from a very good dealer even though I live 40 miles south ($300 over invoice). There is one small dealer in Coral Gables that may have the highest prices because they have no inventory (and they are located in an exclusive area), then the next two northern dealers are owned by the same corporate group. They have many cars, including many C230s in stock (probably more than anywhere else in the country due to their volume). They are ok, but because they are corporate owned, they have special mandatory "dealer" fees that they tack on to every deal and they act more "factory" like in their approach. Then, there is Pompano Beach and others as you go to Palm Beach County. I would deal with the dealers directly down here rather than using a broker as the dealers are volume driven and can do just as well if not better when dealing directly with the customer.
  • janitxjanitx Member Posts: 1
    between buying a 2003 C230 in Texas at $1,000 below invoice price, and a 2002 C230 (8,000 mi) in Missouri (which my very kind Dad would drive down for me)for $2,500 less. The 2002 price includes an extended 1 yr warrentee. The differences in options are: the 2002 has leather and a C5 primium package instead of the C2 package which the 2003 has. I wanted leather but not strongly as I live in Texas and it does get hot...but the leather just looks better. But of course the fun of being the first owner is appealing. My concerns with the 2002 are reliablity...does the 2003 have more bugs fixed? I feel like flipping a coin, I am so tired of thinking about it. Please advise...I need to buy on Monday!
  • richjenkinsrichjenkins Member Posts: 55
    Hi All - Just got back from another trip out of town where I rented (and drove for 500+ miles) an 03 C230K in the UK. Thought I would throw my notes into the discussion:

    This model was in medium blue, with 5 sp autobox, in the "Classic" trim line available in the UK (and obviously was right hand drive:). It had just over 8,000 miles on it.

    Exterior styling was different than in those cars available in the states, in that the wheels were unlike anything I've seen so far here where I am (Central Fla). They were 15", with 7 spokes, but had an "edgier" side to them that made them look a lot better than the more round wheels standard on the C240/C320 non-sport versions. I liked these wheels a lot more than the Sport US wheels which I find a little intense. If I could figure out how to post a picture I'll put it in a message. Otherwise exterior was as in US.

    One dissapointing note that the petrol cap flap had been bent "inward" slightly when closed such that it would not meet flush with the car. Presumeably this was caused by a previous renter, but I did recall thinking the metal that the flap was made of, was not as thick as on my current car...

    Interior styling appeared to be a de-contented version of the US model, viz: Cloth seats, plastic trim (although of a high quality) vs. wood, vinyl on shift lever and steering wheel. I ended up on the motorway a lot and enjoyed using the steering wheel remote controls a lot more than I thought I would.

    The heating/AC seemed particularly touchy, there was a narrow band of comfort in the rotaty settings, so I learned to just move the dial a small amount in order to get hotter or colder.
    I thought the sun visors were of a cheaper variety of plastic as well over the US version.

    Interestingly the car I drove had an in-dash CD player in addition to the glove box changer. As far as I know it was an '03 model. (which was a pain because I'd brought my tapes to listen to -- not CDs!)

    In terms of driving the car, I think the steering, handling and roadholding was much improved over the last generation of C (we have a '99 C280.) In particular the steering allowed very good placement of the car going through roundabouts and turns. Roadholding could have been improved as it appeared to me the car had more of an understeer tendency than most (but lets face it most all cars on the road will understeer to some degree - much safer for the average driver like me who is not Kimi Raikkonen). In particular I recall loading up the brakes on a sharp left turn on a country B road and having the ABS engage -- possibly handling but also possibly the gravel and cow stuff on the road:) Anyway in normal service the brakes were great if a little touchy. Also perhaps this was due to the tyres fitted (some sort of Goodyear version) in 195 width.

    Acceleration seemed oddly both strong and weak. I detected a slight hesitation in some gear/speed situations when the box was left alone which surprised me. Shifting the box manually I never did quite get to work well; it appeared to me that the "touch shift" was not terribly helpful in 1) engine breaking 2) maximizine acceleration or 3) downshifting in order to overtake. On the other hand where I did not touch the lever the car was very responsive in normal driving situations in terms of throttle response. I did not notice the hesitation too many times and would chalk this up to the particular situations. So not surprisingly the auto box is not a manual (duh) and I still would need to test drive a stick at some point.

    The engine rattled a bit when cold but smoothed out when warm. This was not noticeable inside the car.

    I think part of the accelartion improvement for me must be in the firmware which links the position of the throttle sensor and the intake manifold (or whatever passes for a carburettor butterfly on these modern cars). The car's RPM responded MUCH fast than on my car and contributed to a more "on its toes" feeling, everything else being equal. I would place the straightline acceleration faster than my C280, noting this car with the K engine has more torque over mine.

    Overall a very favourable impression. Am still leaning to a C230K/6 Speed in Brilliant Silver, but reasons why I am not running hotly down to my dealer to place an order include:

    1) Its Sunday:)
    2) I am still leery of these "sport" wheels
    3) I still like my C280 (a lot)
    4) She-who-must-be-obeyed says the next MB I need to have for 10 years...so I need to be sure.

    Take care all, stay safe.

    rich

    message for Tony - Great news re: your car. Let us know how it goes. I saw you were in Richmond, if you ever get north, we used to live in Culpeper and could see the Blue Ridge out my living room window...I miss Va a lot...cu...rj
  • mac320mac320 Member Posts: 147
    I'd say, go for the new "C" (or, get a new one with leather, if desired, and try to get a bigger discount).

    Only $2.5K off (MSRP?) a used one-year old "C" would not be a big enough discount for me: we got $3,500 off when we bought a new '02 C320 with leather last year.
  • bobeberhardtbobeberhardt Member Posts: 39
    Go for the 2003 C230K with the new 1.8 litre engine. The 2002 C230K has the old 2.3 litre supercharged engine.

    The new 1.8 litre engine is a drastic improvement over the old 2.3 litre engine and is much smoother, quieter and provides better fuel economy.

    As you indicated leather looks better but you will also find a difference in the seating "feel." The cloth seats seem to be firmer and the leather are softer. Also, it is easier to slip in and out with leather since the cloth material is somewhat rough.
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