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Mercedes-Benz CLK (2005 and earlier)

12527293031

Comments

  • jrct9454jrct9454 Member Posts: 2,363
    ...12 Toyota products, and 6 Hondas [including Acura-badged cars ], I can say with some authority that nothing the Germans make is going to be as trouble-free as anything from the Japanese Big-Three. [There have also been 8 VW/Audi cars, 4 BMWs, and the odd Porsche or two since 1962 in the mix.] That's a fact, and the data continue to support this idea.

    Having said that, our current ride is an '02 C240 automatic, manufactured in January of '02 and bought at a steep discount in September. Aside from the wheel alignment, which was noted before we signed the deal, and which was remedied shortly after delivery, we have had no serious issues so far. I had to re-synch the sunroof on Day 2; otherwise [knock on wood] it has been a joy to drive - smooth, quiet, quick enough for our purposes, and very comfortable on long trips.

    As it happens, I'm not a fan of the current GS - I've never driven an example yet that didn't have wheel shakes from flat-spotted tires or other tire irregularities, though I know I am more sensitive to this problem than most people. I liked everything about the IS except the rocky ride that is dictated by the boy-racer 17" 45-profile tires that are mandatory on the West Coast. The only Lexus I really like is the LS, and though we did consider a used one, a new one is out of our price league.

    The best Japanese alternative to a C or 3er in my mind is probably the Infiniti/Nissan G35. That was a very close competitor for our $ this last time around. The ride quality of the C probably broke this tie, but it was a very near thing. Long-term reliability between these two cars clearly favors the G - I decided to take the risk to get the car that most closely matched our needs, but recognize that the extended warranty is almost a must for the MB, and probably unnecessary for the G.

    It's always a tradeoff - the perfect car doesn't exist.
  • AlexWalexAlexWalex Member Posts: 8
    Picked up C230 from dealer's stock 02/28. Pretty good lease deal for three years. They calculated lease using the selling price of almost $3000 below invoice -- to the point that my dad wanted to get one as well. It's silver with c2 package and CD changer, manual transmisssion. SO far drives well and no complaints. WE shall see, however... This weekend will take it for a long ride and explore capabilities even further
  • crikeycrikey Member Posts: 1,041
    If you don't mind me asking, what numbers did you get? If you prefer, you can email me at crikey@bellsouth.net. Thanks.
  • revkarevka Member Posts: 1,750
    We look forward to hearing more details about your MB C230.... Happy motoring!

    Revka
    Host
    Hatchbacks & Wagons Boards
  • valonvalon Member Posts: 22
    congrat on your order, just today i went back to the diler cause a friend of mine wanted to get the car,during the weekend he went but the best price he got for the same package i have was 32300 and only after i went with my paperwork and talked to fleet manager they agreed to sell the car for the same price reason is that sport sedan is ine of most orderd cars this spring in northeast and dilers start not to negotiate the price, he will get the car some time in may they told him.
    Good news, mine is in the ship on his way in 3 weeks top should be in my hands (CANT WAIT ANYMORE)another thing all c klass are build in germany i know cause once i got the vin nr i called directley in Sindelfingen and was there
  • tulanekid24tulanekid24 Member Posts: 25
    hello everyone,

    I test drove the C230 sports sedan with a manual transmission. I found that the manual transmission was aweful. It had a very sloppy feel. I had a hard time getting it into second gear. The clutch was aweful. Is this just my perception or does anyone else think that the Manual transmission in the C230 is aweful?? I expected a better 6speed in a car costing $30k.

    What do you guys think about MB 6 speed?
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    First of all, congratulations to you, Alex. My C230 is not expected to arrive until mid-April, so I am pretty jealous right now! Keep us updated as to how your initial ownership experience is going.

    Secondly, tulanekid24, I am not sure if it was just the 6 spd that you drove, but I love the manual tranny from MB. I test drove the A4 & 330i and can tell you that the MB holds its own against both of them. All of my previous vehicles have been manual and compared to the VR6, Beamer & Prelude that I owned, this six speed is just as good. Maybe you are not comfortable with a 6 spd or maybe you have not driven many before, but I assure you that you should not have any trouble getting into second gear. Lastly, if you have only driven 5 spds before, this MB 6 spd has very short first and second gear ratios, maybe it would just take you driving it a couple of times. Otherwise, get an automatic!
  • richjenkinsrichjenkins Member Posts: 55
    Stan - Can you perhaps quantify what you mean by "awful" and "sloppy feel"?

    Having driven an '03 6 speed C240 a good bit during recent test drive I don't quite come to the same conclusion.

    The clutch in the car I drove had a smooth uptake, with a biting point at or just below the midpoint of mechanical travel.

    The shift gate was tight, to be sure, but each gear engaged positively with no slack I could tell (not sure if MB uses cables or rods in the shift linkage--one suspects cables).

    Neutral was reached easily, and there was no lost motion I could tell in the mechanism, either, when each gear was engaged.

    Shifting both up and down through the range brought no dramas. I did recall having to "learn" to positively hold the gate to the right in order to engage 5/6, but that took a few seconds. Downshifts were smooth and even double clutching (something I usually do in my 1967 manual transmission 4 speed British car out of habit - syncro dogs wearing:( was accomplished with no fuss.

    I did not try to heel and toe the car, honestly I did not take a real good look at the arrangement of the pedals to see if this was possible. One suspects so as it seems the throttle on MBs seem to be always hinged on the bottom while the clutch and brake are suspended on the actuating arm from above if I recall...

    I agree with Tony that 1st gear was pretty tall (i.e. high rpm/low speed), personally I am not that convinced that 6 speeds are that much better than 5 carefully chosen ratios, expecially in an engine with as much torque as this Kompressor DOHC inline 4 seems to have. But I suppose in the popular press 6 must be better than 5...:)

    So no, in contast to your view my experience with 6 speed was pretty positive.

    So, in your view, what then has a better "feeling" 6 speed?
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    RIGHT ON RICH! Man, your rebuttal was much better than mine.:)

    But, I would also love to know what you (tulanekid24) would pose to us as a better or more refined 6 spd.
  • magar65magar65 Member Posts: 28
    I've ordered my C230 Sedan, but am having second thoughts about the price - MSRP. I gotta believe that autos aren't a hot ticket right now...Should I:

    1. Go search some more in other areas;
    2. Negotiate again with the ultimatum of declining my order;
    3. Stick with the deal

    Just looking for some input.

    Thanks!
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    Magar65,
    If it were me, I would threaten to decline my order. I ordered my C230 manual for $985 off MSRP (MSRP 31,985, paid 31,000). My dealer has only one manual sport sedan on their lot; however, they have 6 automatics. My thinking is in line with yours that they should allow you to move a little off of the MSRP, especially for an auto. But, from the dealers standpoint, they state that MB will still sell FAR MORE automatic sport sedans than manuals. He expected manuals to represent only 25% of their sales. So maybe they view the autos to be more in demand and they are less likely to move from MSRP.

    But, again, I feel that you should be able to find a deal that could save you at least $1000 off the MSRP by shopping other dealers and playing them off one another.

    Good luck!
  • ichanichan Member Posts: 1
    Just got a quote today for a 2003 c230k coupe with C2, Auto, brilliant silver, and cd changer today. MSRP including dest. is $29265. The dealer is Euromotors in Maryland. Quote was $23766. A $5499 discount! Odometer reads 18 miles. Too bad that it is an auto. There is only one 6 speed c-coupe (a demo) in stock but about 20 autos. All are fully loaded with at least $5000 options. M-B has a ploy to load them all with auto and sunroof (C2), even not so many people want them. They try to sell options that people don't need and that's why their cars do sell! Has anyone heard of any more aggressive discounts on the coupe? I also wonder if there is any decent discount on the C320 coupe. There is only a $1000 discount on the C320 coupe here. I was told there is no 6 speed C320 coupe within 300 miles from D.C.
  • jdisanjdisan Member Posts: 28
    Magar65

    Negotiate. While Sedan pricing is less flex that coupe..I got mine for about $600 over Invoice (or $1535 less than MSRP.) so they will deal. Call or email three other dealers in your area with the price you have been offered (you don't have to mention your current dealer's name). I will bet that at least two will come back and beat the price you have been quoted. Then (importantly) take that new price to your initial dealer and start the process again...until you get to the "bottom".

    keep it simple by focusing on the price only. Not lease/monthly payment.
  • magar65magar65 Member Posts: 28
    Thanks for the extra advice! I sent a quick email yesterday to the only other dealer within the area...no response yet, but will try by phone tomorrow. Are all dealers this non-chalant about earning someone's business? Sheesh! Does anyone have anything good to say about ANY dealers in Oregon? Not the right forum, but would love to hear about it and actually "experience" some honest to goodness good to great customer service! $600 over invoice sounds about right. Where can I get that deal. I'm eager to own the car but will be happy to wait longer to save $1k!

    Thanks folks for your help!
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    Any update up your negotiations? Were you able to get your current dealer to come down off of the MSRP?
  • ciracira Member Posts: 37
    I purchased a 2002 c230 last year and have had so many problems with it that I am discussing with the dealer a swap out for a 2003. I have not driven the 03 yet and am wondering what everyone's opinion is on the difference between the 2.3 and the 1.8 engines with an automatic transmission. Is the torque difference noticeable? Is the 1.8 less noisy and does it produce less vibration? Any observations would be appreciated.
  • ciracira Member Posts: 37
    I have a follow-up question. Does anyone know if there have been any service bulletins on the 1.8? As a new engine, have any problems been identified? Those of you who have it, what do you think of it and has it given you any problems? Thanks.
  • AlexWalexAlexWalex Member Posts: 8
    So, having had my new C230 for two weeks I have only one unsatisfactory moment -- I am on a very busy schedule and could only drive 300 miles in it! :) Overall, I am very happy so far. Even during our unseasonable Northeastern Storms the car behaved respectfully on the road. I am getting used to driving it. 1.8 liter engine is very potent if you step on the pedal, but if you don't, the car cruises in a very poised but not hurried fashion. Handling is top notch, but again I am yet to take it to our local twisty roads. Manual transmission is satisfactory, though precision could be better, but is overall easy to shift. Clutch has a bit of early engagement point, but I got used to it easily. Seats are very comfortable. All other features I like so far and I haven't noticed any major (or minor) problems. I haven't heard about 1.8 liter engine having any problems. It's not totally new -- it has been used in Europe woth different pressure boosts, so it is been broken in. Be happy to address specific quetions should people have any.
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    First of all, I can't wait to be reporting on my initial ownership experience, but I can at least live vicariously through you until my c230 sport sedan arrives. I have just a couple of questions for you: Have you been aware of any throttle lag in first gear (or any gear for that matter)? Did you opt for the Bose system? If so, how do you like it? I have yet to hear the Bose system, the car I test drove had the stock system in it. Have you tried to fit a drink in that pathetic cup holder yet?:) Or has it already broken? I give that thing a couple of weeks in my car! Those Europeans don't drink and drive much do they?

    Keep us posted!
  • valonvalon Member Posts: 22
    Well people ... i agreed for the one with the heated seats, before i even told him that he offered me 200$ discount on the seats so it did work just fine,car is in baltimore dock so i should get the car next wed or fri, cause thur the guy is off. I will update when i drive out of dillership if is Friday don't expect me back in bord till Sunday night i will be testing the car
  • AlexWalexAlexWalex Member Posts: 8
    I wanted Bose, but would have had to order a car to get it. Decided not wait -- easier to deal with a dealer who has a car you are buying. We signed papers at 2p.m. and I drove off in a new car at 6p.m.
    Frankly, I was born and grew up in Europe. Even though I have been here for a while, I dont drink or eat in a car unless I am on a very long trip, so cupholders are of no concern to me or my wife for that matter (lucky me because I agree they are flimsy). What VW do you drive now? I've driven Passat my father owns a lot and the lag in MB is no more (or probably somewhat less) than the minimal lag VW 1.8T engine has. Don't expect to get really going in the first gear... fun starts in the second :) Shocker today -- trip to the "filling station" cost me $26 (just have to get used to it!!!) Hope your car arrives soon.
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    I've got a 2001 VW Jetta GLX VR6. Love the car, but tired of seeing 15 of them on my way to the local grocery store. I have also always loved the new C Class body style. I never could afford the C320 and always thought the C240 was too sluggish. I also MUST have a manual tranny and was so excited to see MB put them in all of the C Class cars (except the C32). I like the Sport Coupe, but my wife and I are expecting our first child in about six weeks. . .gotta have four doors.

    I'm glad to hear that you are not experiencing any lag in your new coupe. My VR6, of course, has zero lag since it is a naturally aspirated engine. But, I loved the smoothness of the new 1.8L engine from MB and loved the fact that they put it in the sedan with some awesome body molding and killer 17inch wheels.

    In reference to the filling station prices, I've been one of those crazy 93 octane people in all of my vehicles, so this should not be a change for me.

    Keep us updated on you driving impressions!
  • revkarevka Member Posts: 1,750
    Hi Folks - Anyone care to share some details about their C230 or C320? Perhaps we can get this discussion rolling again. If you'd like you can list your:

    1. Model Year & Total miles to date.

    2. MPG & Driving habits. Any differences in mpg since you first purchase?

    3. Any additional accessories & mods?

    4. Maintenance issues to date.

    5. Any interesting trips or cargo experiences?

    6. Overall impressions pro/cons of your vehicle since you first purchased....

    Share as much (or as little) information as you'd like. I'm sure other owners/shoppers passing through here, would find the information quite interesting, if not helpful.

    Also, you can report back every 3-5k to update again.... Thanks for your participation! ;-)

    Revka
    Host
    Hatchbacks & Wagons Boards
  • babybenzbabybenz Member Posts: 2
    just got my first MB yesterday. I'm all smiles.

    I got the 230k sedan, automatic, obsidian black, c2 package, and cd for $31,400. I think I did okay, since that's about $1,300 under msrp.

    can't wait to let everyone know my thoughts as I put the first hundred or so miles on it.
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    babybenz,
    Congratulations on your new car. My C230 sport sedan is supposed (keeping my fingers crossed) to arrive today. Did you order yours, or buy it off the lot? If you ordered yours, I wonder if it came off the same boat. Where do you live? Are you on the east coast? I'm in Richmond, VA. My car is Alabaster White, C2, Bose, CD changer, heated seats with the 6 speed manual. MSRP was 31,985 and I paid 31,000. Soooo it looks like you did a little better than I did.

    Congrats again and happy motoring!
  • babybenzbabybenz Member Posts: 2
    I got mine off the lot. I bought it on the 31st, so I think the dealer wanted to have another sale for his month end numbers. Sounds like you got a good deal also.

    I live in Atlanta and bought it at RBM. After only a day of driving, I can say that you're going to love this car. Hope it arrives soon.
  • wc68wc68 Member Posts: 23
    Hope your car comes in today! My car will be in LA on the 7th, probably won't see it till the week of the 21st. Let me know how you like it when you get your car! Congrats!!!
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    I'm staring at my cell phone every second. . . .how's the saying go: a watched cell phone never rings. . . .pray with me. . .
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    I picked up my car last night and "WOW!!!"! It is absolutely everything and more than I remember from my test drives. First of all, my C230K looked awesome in white. The wheels/tire combo is just flat out a head turner. The six speed is smooth and the Bose sounds great. I was amazed at just how quiet the cabin is and how well it cornered. I'm kinda going through sensory overload right now. Everything is truly perfect on this car. I know that the E & S Classes are absolutely amazing, but for the money, this is a tough deal to pass up. I have only put 55 miles on the car so far, so as I continue driving, I will give you updates.

    I do have one question, my dealer explained to me last night the MBs don't require any break in period, is this correct? I usually baby a car for the first 1200 miles and then start driving, he said that is not necessary, is he right?

    Thanks!
    One Stoked First Time Benz Owner
  • wc68wc68 Member Posts: 23
    Congrats again! I would take it easy on the car for the first 1000 miles just to be safe. I wonder where my car is! How much was your out the door price? What where the added charges, adverstising, prep fee, etc???
  • dverespeydverespey Member Posts: 56
    Ok, it's time to replace my old beater and at first I was of the idea of going with one of the usual suspects as far as a sedan.

    But, I've always liked the look of the Mercedes and heck the price difference isn't that great.

    Anyway, I'm looking to find a good dealer in the SF Bay Area who's interested in letting me explorer the model without being upset that I'm not buying today. Anyone have a recomendation?
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    The out the door cost was $31,000 plus taxes, tag, title and processing fee ($149) totalling $32,259. The only extra fee was the processing fee, no dealer prep or anything else.

    I just got back from lunch and I am finding any excuse to go out driving. The car was worth EVERY PENNY! Let me know when you get your car. Can't wait to hear your first impression. What date do you expect to have it?
  • wc68wc68 Member Posts: 23
    Dealer has not given me a date but approx by the end of this month. I wonder why I was not able to track my car over the web? What area do you live in? I am in Seattle! Can you refresh my mind on what options you got? Enjoy your car, it was a long wait! Let me know any problems you encounter, hopefully none! Thanks! Willy
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    I got my C230 with the following:
    Alabaster White/Charcoal Interior
    Bose Sound System
    CD Changer
    Heated Front Seats
    C2 Package
    I live in on the southside of Richmond VA. The car arrived in Baltimore, which is only about 2 1/2 hours from me. I think that is the reason I was able to get it only 5 days after it hit the port. Since your car is traveling cross country (assuming they always hit a port on the east coast), I would guess that is why it is taking a little longer. Keep me posted! I hope to not report any problems. . .but, we'll see. . .stay tuned.
  • jrct9454jrct9454 Member Posts: 2,363
    There used to be at least two ports of entry on every body of water bordering the US, but lately they've cut back. At minimum, there are now VPCs [Vehicle Prep Centers] in Belcamp MD [served by Baltimore], Jacksonville FL, and Carson CA [served by port of Long Beach]. Cars for the Pacific Northwest used to be landed directly in Seattle, but they may now be going through Carson and trucked north. They used to bring cars in through Houston, as well, but JAX may be serving the mid-South now. In any case, West Coast cars travel no further than the distance from LA to their final destination. Certainly, no cars are trucked or trained across country except perhaps the output of the Alabama plant - and even there, they may be sending cars to JAX to board ships for the West Coast.
  • bubba3007bubba3007 Member Posts: 38
    Isn't it great, after the long wait, to feel that the wait was worth it! Congratulations!!!

    I have had my C240 since Feb 2001 and still get that certain feeling every time I get behind the wheel. And this after almost 40K miles!

    You asked about break-in. My advice is to stop, right now, and take the time to READ YOUR OWNERS MANUAL. It can be a chore, meanings can be confusing after translation and the stuff mandated by the lawyers can sometimes seem silly, but you will learn much more than any salesman can tell you. Just take the book, set down in the drivers seat, and read and try each step as you read about it. This may take several sessions but if you do it, when you finish you'll know more about your car than you thought possible and you will have discovered a few surprises. Enjoy!!!

    Bubba
    "---My friends all drive Porches, I must make AMENDS---" J. Joplin
  • mac320mac320 Member Posts: 147
    Maybe the salesperson said no break-in was required because MB's silica impregnated aluminum cylinder sleeves have such a hard surface. He may think all of the old ideas about break in are out of date.

    The information about our '00 ML430's break-in was pretty well hidden in the "Driving" section of the manual--without a single reference to in in the table of contents or the index.

    The manual says, "The more cautiously you treat your vehicle during the break-in period, the more satisfied you will be with its performance later on."

    The manual goes on to recommend "moderate" engines speeds, the 1st 1,000 miles, no heavy loads, no excessive engine speeds and no manually shifting down.

    It is interesting to note that for the period following the 1,000 mile mark, the manual simply says speeds may be gradually increased to the permissible maximum. So, that leaves it up to the buyer about how nice, and for how long, he or she wants to be to the engine. I think careful is best.

    If you're really careful, you'd probably drive no more than 50-100 miles at a time before letting the engine cool.

    I just stayed under 55 for the first 1,000 miles, no long trips, and took slower off-freeway routes for more than half of the break-in period. The 430 burned no oil at all during the last FSS interval which came up at about 64K. And before I took the car in, the oil still seemed perfectly clean and was right on the mark since the last FSS service.

    I was really interested to follow a careful break-in for the '02 C320 because the car doesn't even come equipped with a dip stick (just the electronic version)! I don't know if this applies to MB's C230, but MB obviously is totally behind FSS and synthetic. Even so, it has been fun to marvel at the clean look and feel of the oil between my fingers after 12-13K miles in the 430--with the new synthetics, the oil doesn't even change color.

    One thing I like, MB provides a lot of oil capacity for their engines: 8 quarts for the 320. The Electronic dip stick measures to one-half a quart, which is fine. I'd be surprised to see the C320 burn any oil between oil changes based on the above break-in and our 430 experiences.
  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    Thank you both for your advice. Bubba, I did read most of the owners manual this weekend, excluding the "how to buckle your seat belt" and "how to start your car" sections.:) And like mac320 stated, the info on the break in period is very hidden within the book. But, I did find it and it does ask you to keep it slow and steady for the first 1000 miles. After sharing with my dealer what I read in the manual, he explained to me that according to his service department (and also that he would not give out that kind of advice unless he had a lot of backing) with the use of synthetic oil nowadays, the need for the break in period is a little passe. Either way, I going to take it easy until I hit that 1k mark and then it's time to have some fun.

    It was good to hear how your 430 has been doing; I'm sure if you treat these cars right, the reward should be a long relatively trouble free ownership. . .at least up to 150k.

    Thanks again and I'm still smilin'; THIS CAR ROCKS!
  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 16,373
    I'm glad you're enjoying your C230 so much. It must be worlds better than your former Jetta (depending on if you got a Dr. Jeckyl or Mr. Hyde Jetta that is).

    As far as a break in period goes, it may not be necessary, but it can't hurt. If you leased the car, then I'd say nail it out of the dealer's lot, but if you bought it, then the first 1000 miles will be worth it. The speed break in of "don't go over 55" I don't think applies anymore, but you should vary your speed (no cruise control) and engine speed. Also no harsh acceleration or hard breaking will help the car break in nicely.

    2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2022 Wrangler Sahara 4Xe, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD

  • jettaglxvr6jettaglxvr6 Member Posts: 64
    Thanks for the advice. I am definitely keeping it slow for the first 1000 miles due to the responses here and my past knowledge as well. I agree with you on the over 55 thing (cause I have definitely been over 55 already!:) and that I should not use the cruise control or go on any long trips until after the break in period. As you can probably tell, I did purchase the car, I'm not a big fan of leases. I'm all about putting a chunk of change down and letting these nice low interest rates take care of the rest.

    My Jetta was pretty good to me except for the $#@% check engine light (it came on about 10 times during the 40K that I drove it). After the first couple, I stopped taking it in and it would go out after a few days. The stupid gas cap could cause that thing to go off. I would have preferred they just pull that light out of my dash. Other than that, the car was trouble free. . .but NO comparison to the C230K. . .not even in the same ballpark.
    Thanks again!
  • AlexWalexAlexWalex Member Posts: 8
    Yes, I am finally over 1000 miles mark (and am officially over with my break-in period)! I also found deep down in the manual about being careful during the first 1000 miles. I recall my dealer mentioned something about that at delivery, but I was so excited, that I ignored :)So congrats to jettaglxvr6! For me, the car has been awesome to drive overall. Can't really complain of anything. Even my non-Bose stereo seems now fine to the ear. Gas mileage varies a bit. Definitely seems that the engine likes warmer weather. When it's 30s here, my routine trip to my parents' house (about 30 highway miles) produces 27 miles a gallon at the best. When it was 60 degrees outside, I got 31mpg for the trip. I specifically drove pretty steady between 65-70mph in each case. I don't know if that is related to the supercharger. Just a curious observation, but can anyone comment on it? Otherwise, I am enjoying myself and am in awe every time I get into the car. Soon I'll be looking for a replacement car for my wife. Due to weather and job requirements, AWD seems a must and we are not into SUVs. May be we'll revisit MB dealer to look at those AWD C class cars... :) Best regards, everyone
  • valonvalon Member Posts: 22
    im glad that you got the car and enjoying hope that everything go as the way you want, about the break-in the diler advised me not to run to hard on the car until 1000 mark (im 658)as of today that 2 weeks drive around north jersey and nyc car is great and really cant wait for better weather so i can test my driving skills. With the car so far everything is smooth and car is running good.
    I want to ask all owners of new c230 anyone has any funny noises in the car that we discuss earlier last month cause my c230 runs so smooth that cant make it if is on or no when im stopped on light,on other thing i want to add that with the new c230 sport sedan bmw325 got a real competitor.
    i like to know what everyone thinks about this.
  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 16,373
    Ok, since I'm a fan of both MB and BMW (and without starting a 325i vs. C230K argument/discussion), am not in the market for a car, and would consider both of these models, I'm posting some objective comparisons. All of the numbers I post come from the respective manufacturers' websites (bmwusa.com & mbusa.com).

    Mercedes Benz C230K Sport Sedan
    BMW 325i

    Engine
    1.8L DOHC 16V S/C I-4
    2.5L DOHC 24V I-6

    Horsepower & Torque
    189 hp @ 5800 RPM 192 lb/ft @ 3500-4000 RPM
    184 hp @ 6000 RPM 175 lb/ft @ 3500 RPM

    Curb Weight
    3,185 lbs
    3,219 lbs

    Power:Weight Ratio
    16.85:1
    17.49:1

    Drag Coefficient
    0.27
    0.31

    EPA Observed Fuel Economy (City/Highway)
    21/30
    20/29

    0-60 mph
    7.6 seconds
    7.1 seconds

    Colors, Options, & MSRP (That I'd order, your preferance may vary)

    MB: Black, Charcoal Leather Inserts, 6 Speed Manual Transmission, C2, C3, Heated Front Seats, CD Changer $31,810

    BMW: Black, Black Leatherette, 5 Speed Manual Transmission Sport Package, Power Moon Roof, Split Folding Rear Seats, Heated Front Seats, On Board Computer $32,220

    We all know that numbers don't tell the whole story (otherwise everyone would have an Acura TL-Type S w/ Navigation J/K). Here's the objective part that I promised:

    Exterior Styling definitely has to go to the C230K. The lines are sleek and sexy while the 17" wheels...ect make the car look muscular. That said, there is something to be said about the mean looks of the 325i w/ Sport Package.

    I don't like to see my car around every corner (proof is in the pudding that I drive a Honda Prelude Type SH). 3 series are ubiquitous here in NYC and it's surrounding areas. The C (especially the Sport Sedan) seems to be a rare sight.

    Price: As you can see, MBs are finally competitively priced (I'm glad they got rid of the Sport Package as a $3K option). I'm sure if money was the deal breaker that you'd have an easier time (more off MSRP) getting a C off the dealer's hands than a 3.

    Transmission: I know the MB has a 6 speed and the BMW has a 5 spd, but I've driven old versions (2 years ago). The SLK320 6 speed I drove wasn't pretty. BMWs Getrag 5 speed manual was a delight.

    Performance: Everday driving should be a toss up and I really can't comment other than the fact that the numbers are relatively similar. I'd like to hear from someone who's driven both cars back to back.

    So the long answer is yes, the 325i has some real competition. Now if only lexus would offer a folding rear seat on the IS300, then there would be some more real competition.

    2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2022 Wrangler Sahara 4Xe, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD

  • chem2k2chem2k2 Member Posts: 4
    I test drove the 230k sedan with the 6-speed last weekend. I love the car, but was surprised to find that there is no hand brake. I live in the SF bay area and launching without the aide of the hand brake on steep hills has me a little nervous. Does anyone else have this concern about roll-back? Thanks.
  • s852s852 Member Posts: 1,051
    The automatic is a better choice if you drive in that area regularly. However, I have driven a stick in that area without using a handbrake, nor rolling back for than a couple inches, if that. It takes practice, maybe more practice than it's worth if you have to do it every day..
  • goinstaggoinstag Member Posts: 20
    Chem2k2,

    I've got a manual transmission and live in SF and have no troubles with rollback. My shifting skills got better quickly after I moved here (it had been a while since I'd driven a manual), but I really like a manual for climibing hills and controlling descent. I can't remember the last time I used the handbrake except when parking.
  • huntzingerhuntzinger Member Posts: 356
    Well, my '02 C230K now has 11K trouble-free miles on it, and it had its first service for an oil change ~6 weeks ago. Very soon afterwords, I noticed that my highway MPG seems to have improved by 2-3mpg.

    I hesitate to think that the improvement is because I'm staying out of the throttle. I was wondering if anyone else has noticed an improvement after the factory cutting oil was replaced with normal stuff...

    -hh
  • mac320mac320 Member Posts: 147
    Not unless something changed recently. New MBs have come with factory-approved synthetic oil since at least 2000--the same oil that is used for all FSS interval changes. I think MB engines take a long time to break in--more like tens of thousands of miles. Maybe they pumped up your tires--that can make a big difference.
  • jmalik1jmalik1 Member Posts: 21
    Hi everyone - I am new to this forum. I'm researching C230 related information for my upcoming C230 purchase. This coupe is going to be the 2nd car in our family (the first one being a Lexus RX300). We tried Jetta, Jetta TDI, Saab 9-3, Cadillac CTS, Lexus IS 300, Infiniti G35, Acura TL and even a Chrysler Town & Country. We ruled out the CTS and Town & Country immediately. Our decision came down to the price/value of each vehicle and we've got a price for the C230 coupe that sounds really good to me. Its 25K for a 2003 C230 K, Capri Blue, C5 package (oyster leather), with the CD changer. Its $5750 below the sticker price. And has been the deciding factor for us. What do you guys think. Is this a pretty good deal?

    We'll probably pick up the car this coming Saturday. Any thing that we should pay attention to before we drive it off the lot. What are some of the commonly experienced new car problems that have been reported.

    Any comments would be appreciated.

    Thanks
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