There is a suspicion that many top managers of the Daimler concern at work they secretly pray, and as icons they use a photo of their C-Class, the best-selling Mercedes-Benz of the entire line. And now, after restyling, it promises to become even more popular.

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Sedans in Russia are respected. In high esteem and four-wheel drive - with our winters and neglected roads .. It is no coincidence that on the Russian market every year there are more and more sedans with all-wheel drive. In this review we will present only middle-class models, but there are quite a few of them - eleven. And if you count all the modifications - 21! A good number….

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C-class became all-wheel drive (C-class 4Matic С280; С350) Test Drive

new opportunities of a compact "Mercedes".

Among the cars "family"; segment, there are models that, while not differing in size from their classmates, surpass them in all other respects. In terms of comfort, speed, richness of finishing, they are not inferior to business models. We are talking, in particular, about premium cars from Germany. These are “Audi A4” (2000-2004), BMW 3-series, produced after modernization in 2001 to 2005, and “Mercedes-Benz” C-class, produced from 2000 to restyling of 2004.

Almost twenty years ago, a memorable event took place - the Daimler-Benz concern made an unexpected and, as it seemed then, unnatural move for itself, releasing a small car.

Almost twenty years ago, a memorable event took place - the Daimler-Benz concern made an unexpected and, as it seemed then, unnatural move for itself, releasing a small class car. Prior to that, the concern for many years was engaged, and very successfully, exclusively with "large" machines. In 1979, for example, the fantastic debut of the then revolutionary S-class took place. And now, three years later, like a bolt from the blue, the Mercedes 190 appears ...

This model, which defined the stylistic strategy of Daimler-Benz for almost a decade, represented a breakthrough in automotive design and took its rightful place among the best examples created in the entire history of the car. The body shape has not become obsolete until now, but marketing considerations and "obsolescence" forced to replace "one hundred and ninety" with a classmate who received an alphabetic index instead of numbers. Mercedes C-class did not gain such fame as his predecessor, but also became a noticeable phenomenon in automotive world... However, the magazine spoke in sufficient detail about the history of the two Mercedes compacts (Motor # 4, 2000). Now we will talk about the new generation - at the beginning of this year, the third C-class sedan made its debut. The third "edition" with the subtitle "C200 Kompressor" got the editorial test ...

The Mercedes C-class looks almost like the "most important" Mercedes, only in smaller dimensions. A sloping roof with an arched C-pillar, "combined" headlights and taillights, bumper air intake cuts, bonnet and door connector lines, turn signal repeaters in exterior mirrors - why not an S-Class in miniature? If you dig in, you can find other examples of what is called "corporate identity".

The car looks solid, "big" - pulls at least the middle class, in accordance with the recent tendency to "move" class in the upward direction. (The same can be said for prices, which are gradually approaching the cost of a decent Moscow apartment.)

The visual "enlargement" of the car was achieved mainly due to new body shapes, the real increase in its length and width is small, and it is difficult to catch it by eye. The car became slightly lower, the wheelbase was increased by 25 mm. (For those wishing to look for other external changes, we refer to the April issue of "Motor".)

Model indexing remains the same. Gasoline are designated C180, C200 Kompressor, C240 \u200b\u200band C320; turbodiesel - C200, C220 and C270 (all with the letters CDI). The numbers indicate the size of the engine. But there are also changes - almost all engines have been updated, and the C240 \u200b\u200bversion is now equipped with a 2.6 liter engine. It's time to change the nomenclature ...

As already mentioned, we chose the Mercedes C200 Kompressor for the test, which occupies the middle position in the range (there is a feeling that this particular modification will be most popular with buyers). The volume of the engine, as you might guess, is roughly 2 liters. The word "Kompressor" indicates that the engine has an air blower. It is mechanical and has a number of advantages over the more common turbochargers, first of all - instantaneous reaction and no turbo lag.

The presence of the compressor allows the engine to develop a power of 163 hp, the torque is kept at 230 Nm in the range of 2500-4800 rpm. Indicators - almost the same as the 2.6 L V-shaped atmospheric engine Mercedes C240. (Another comparison: the same 2L engine without a supercharger on the C180 produces 129 hp and 185 Nm.)

The box is a five-speed "automatic" with the possibility of "manual" control. It should be noted that this is an option, as standard the Mercedes C200 is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission.

There have been changes in the suspension. In the hallway they decided to "return to the roots." Now in front - as on the Mercedes 190 - MacPherson (in the "second reading" the scheme on the wishbones was used). At the rear, no fundamental changes have occurred, for the third generation of these cars is equipped with a "textbook" multi-link independent suspension.

Another radical change - instead of the usual "Mercedes" screw with a ball nut, a rack and pinion steering mechanism appeared, more precise and sharp.

The chassis is stuffed with electronics, as they say, "to the eyeballs" - from the traditional ABS with an assistant in the person of Brake Assist to the stability control system that has become mandatory in the standard equipment of all Mercedes-Benz passenger cars.

The seemingly massive door swings open easily, and we find ourselves in a cozy corner. Comfort and peace. Yes, Mercedes is Mercedes. You seem to be carefully shielded from the outside world. In addition, in the event of a serious accident, all those sitting in the cabin will literally be surrounded by airbags from all sides: apart from the front ones, side and window airbags are provided.

It is quite spacious inside, despite the massiveness of the internal door panels. The torpedo looks solid, some of its elements resemble those of the S-class, but simpler. Everything is done with taste and quality. The driver's seat is traditionally stiff but comfortable. (Later it turned out that you can "jump" on it - the seat is spring loaded.) I get settled ...

You can move the seat back using the handrail from the bottom - as on the "old" 190th. The “end point” was so far away that I “caught” myself behind the wheel and went back forward - any basketball player could easily fit in the driver's seat. Electricity helps to move up and down, the steering column is adjustable in length and angle. Landing - on the yat.

The steering wheel is comfortable to grip, it has buttons for controlling "music", an on-board computer and mobile phone (it is installed for an additional fee). The center console is crammed with controls for the music and air conditioning systems, as well as various "little things" like the seat heating buttons. Everything is within reach. The pedals, the selector lever with a zigzag cut of the trajectory, which is traditional for Mercedes cars, are also in their "proper" places.

Visibility is not on the "five" - \u200b\u200bmassive front roof pillars eat up part of the visible space in front and on the sides. Just sitting behind the wheel, I noticed that there were two wipers. The right one is familiarly "dancing", expanding the area to be cleaned in the upper part of the glass, the left one is usual.

To improve the view back, the "mountain ridge" of the three head restraints of the rear seat can be folded in parts by buttons on the dashboard, but you will have to manually return the "parts" to their original position. The back seat is roomy enough even for leggy ones. However, this was the difference between the previous "compact", the distance between the seats did not change. There was a little more space above the head.

The car rolls easily as soon as you take your foot off the brake pedal. The engine is almost inaudible - either at idle or in motion. The cabin is almost completely silent. The engine responds very quickly and clearly to the movement of the gas pedal, but the box does not always keep up with it when shifting down. The creators of the car claim that they gave some thoughtfulness to the “automatic machine” on purpose - it’s useless, they say, for a car of an almost luxury class to pull riders.

The dynamics of acceleration is quite decent, but nevertheless the C200 is not a car, it is not easy for a two-liter engine to accelerate intensively a car with a 1.5-ton curb weight, even with mechanical "doping", especially at low revs.

AT normal modes driving "automatic" works clearly, switching smooth and almost imperceptible, moving as if in one virtual gear. Acceleration in "manual" mode is noticeably more cheerful, sports "notes" begin to come from under the hood. With a manual transmission, things would probably go even more fun, but a Mercedes car, albeit a compact class, is somehow more suited to automatic ...

Braking dynamics was at an exorbitant height. The informative pedal with low travel and comfort force provides extremely confident and intense deceleration. Happy owners of new items from Mercedes-Benz should develop a habit from time to time to easily press the brake pedal - the flash of the brake lights will warn those driving behind you about your stopping power.

The suspension provides a high level of comfort, largely thanks to it, the car demonstrates a very light ride. At the same time, she acquired a pleasant rigidity, not very characteristic of Mercedes (especially older ones), which, in combination with the steering wheel becoming sharp at high speed, provokes the driver to drive quite actively.

In corners, the Mercedes-Benz C200 stands excellently, accurately tracking the set trajectory - as with the participation eSP systems, and without it. In the latter case, lateral slip increases slightly, but the car perfectly obeys the steering wheel and continues to drive as the driver wishes. The combination of a clear gas pedal with a sharp steering wheel and good grip properties of rubber allows you to enter turns at different angles and at different speeds, and the output result is invariably positive ... And now the first and last unpleasant moment in the test came - it was time to return the car.

Let's summarize. Undoubtedly, the car has become better both externally and “internally”. More precisely steering, perfect suspension, higher comfort (only the silence in the cabin is worth something). According to sports data, the "compact" Mercedes is one step closer to its eternal rival - "three-ruble note" BMW. But the rival in "sports games" started playing twenty years earlier, is there any point in catching up with him? This is probably why Mercedes - quite rightly - focuses on increasing the luxury rather than the sportiness of its new model (just remember the operation of the box or look at the small tachometer in the corner dashboard). However, the C-class coupe has already appeared, and after a while they promise an all-wheel drive modification and a version from AMG ...

SPOON FEEDING

The mechanics of "Mercedes" engines are traditionally reliable, and the motors of the 203 are no exception. The timing drive is a chain drive, there are no problems with it. And an increased oil appetite for motors is a rarity. But the power supply and ignition systems on our fuel often fail.

The most common culprit for engine interruptions is candles that have drank metal-containing additives. To protect the catalytic converter in the event of a misfire, the engine control unit simply turns off the injector faulty cylinder... And even if you missed the burning bulb Check Engine, it is difficult not to feel the "lack".

In case of deposits of resins on the nozzles (again from bad gasoline) the control unit adjusts the time of their opening, but only for the time being. When the adaptation limits, hardwired into the ROM, are exhausted, the Check Engine lights up (error code - lean mixture). The DFID may also be the culprit for the same mistake - over time, it begins to "attribute" excess air masses.

More often, a sensor defect manifests itself in a hot season with a frequency of two seasons or 50 thousand km. In engines with a mechanical supercharger (compressor), the EGR valve is clogged with soot (error - failure during afterburning). There is no point in changing the valve, its resource does not exceed 20 thousand km on our fuel, this function is easier and cheaper to disable.

To extend the life of candles and injectors, you can "reflash" the control unit for 92nd gasoline, which is not so "watery" (issue price - 40 euros). True, you will have to come to terms with some deterioration in dynamics.

We extinguish Check Engine only using a special scanner (Star Diagnosis, hereinafter - SD). By removing the terminal from the battery, you can break the wood: without power, the engine control unit resets the data for correcting the mixture composition (adaptation) and goes to the standard factory settings. If before that the car was operated for a long time with the Check Engine turned on or the problem arose quickly, then the correction could be far beyond the normal values. Then you risk not starting at all - you will need new candles, nozzles, mass air flow sensor and, possibly, a gas pump. Compared to the savings on a visit to the dealer, such a set of parts is much more expensive.

Alas, fuel equipment modern "Mercedes" diesel engines are also poorly adapted to Russian fuel, the first problems with it happen already by 100 thousand km. Considering the high cost of repairs and spare parts, it is better to refrain from buying a car with a diesel engine.

ELECTRONIC DEMOCRACY

Wiring harnesses familiar to many are not found here. Electronics is in charge of everything: many individual units are connected by a multiplexed CAN (Controller Area Network) bus over a "twisted pair", but there is no main manager. Any unit can take the reins of government (more precisely, microcircuits). For example, when braking, everything obeys the ABS / ESP unit, and during acceleration, the engine control unit.

If you want to install non-original additional equipment (alarm, navigation system, music, etc.) you will have to buy a matching cAN device BUS ($ 100-250). To implant a new organ in smart wiring, it is better not to meddle with ordinary wires and a soldering iron.

When MOT approaches, a symbol (wrench) lights up on the instrument panel, which will easily and correctly extinguish only SD, while the mileage is recorded in the depths of the non-volatile memory of the EZS units and the KI instrument panel. In the presence of SD, you can indirectly verify the truth of the mileage by comparing it with the marks of the maintenance. In case of illogical discrepancies, it is better to refuse to buy such a car.

Circuit protection against short circuits is managed by two SAM signal processing units, in which, in addition to the usual fuses there are also electronic ones (most of them). If after replacing, for example, a burned-out light bulb, the circuit still does not work, restart the engine in order to "charge" the corresponding fuse.

HE DOESN'T SLEEP, DOESN'T GIVE TO OTHERS

The weak link in the electronics is the rear SAM unit mounted in the trunk. Surprising: his colleague toils under the hood in the worst climatic conditions, and fails much less often. The block can "end" in different ways: honestly, when it starts to openly lie about the fuel readings and burned out bulbs, and despicably, when at one moment it leaves the driver with a completely discharged battery. According to the "job description", SAM units should "fall asleep" a few minutes after the ignition is turned off, going into energy-saving mode. But the back has insomnia: it bothers the neighbor and other control units, endlessly demanding self-diagnostic protocols from them. The accumulator honestly feeds all the awake with energy. At shallow discharges, when after parking it is possible to start without assistance, SAM is still able to return to normal life. If you cannot do without "lighting" - keep in mind that for SAM this can become a "control shot".

THE KEY TO Tranquility

If for some reason there is only one key left for the car, do not hesitate to order a duplicate. Firstly, this procedure is lengthy: all checks on the criminal base and delivery take 40 days (the cost of the key is 100 euros). Secondly, in case of problems with reading the transponder in the key head, it becomes impossible to determine the culprit of the failure; another key is needed. And the EZS ignition control unit (800 euros), where the key is inserted, can also fail. In this case, waiting for a new key is a waste of time. True, even in the presence of several keys, errors occur in identifying the culprit, but their probability is the less, the earlier the diagnosis is made. Do not hesitate with her!

STAR, STILL STAR

With safety at the "tseshka" - order. There are enough systems working for it even in basic configuration... All of them interact in a single complex, intervening in the protection of riders in stages. The magazine has already written about this in detail (ЗР, 2004, No. 6), we only note that according to the results of the EuroNCAP crash test in 2001 (see Model History), the car earned 31 points and four stars on the first attempt (five stars were not enough points!). A year later, the EuroNCAP commission revised the methodology and added 2 more points and one star for intelligent system seat belt warnings introduced shortly before.

However, you should not blindly rely on a five-star safety shield without additional check at the dealer. There are cases when the airbags and belt tensioners that worked after an accident were not changed, and the “specialists” simply turned off the function of their self-diagnosis.

Salvation of the drowning

A considerable part of the cars came to us from secondary markets Europe after the floods. If you do not find a trace of the waterline on the upholstery - do not flatter yourself, it may be from their inside, although the most zealous sellers washed silt even from hidden cavities with almost complete disassembly of the machine. But no one changed the bearings of the hubs, and if under normal conditions they live over 100 thousand km, then the "drowned" may end up unpredictably. The rear bearings are changed separately, the front ones are assembled with the hub. When replacing, we check the condition of the brake discs, their maximum permissible wear is 3 mm. Usually the front ones serve 60 thousand km, the rear ones - about 90.

According to the German control organization (TU..V), two-three-year "tseshki" take 50th place in the reliability rating (out of 113), and 4-5-year-olds - 11th, that is, the main breakdowns occur during the warranty period ... We have a similar picture, so used Mercedes are getting cheaper slowly.

2000 Mercedes С-Klasse, factory index W203. Body: sedan and sports coupe. Engines (car model in brackets): petrol P4: 1.8 l, 95 kW / 129 hp (C180); 1.8 l, 120 kW / 163 hp (C200); 1.8 l, 125 kW / 170 hp (C200 CGI); 1.8 l, 141 kW / 192 hp (C230K); V6: 2.6 L, 125 kW / 170 PS (C240); 3.2 l, 160 kW / 218 hp (C320); 3.2 l, 260 kW / 354 hp (C32 AMG); diesel with "common rail" and turbocharged P4: 2.1 l, 90 kW / 122 hp (C200 CDI) and 2.1 l, 105 kW / 143 hp. (C220 CDI). Rear-wheel drive, M6 or A5.

2001 EuroNCAP crash test, 4 stars, 14 and 17 points for frontal and side impact, respectively. Station wagon (model ST).

2002 EuroNCAP added 2 points and 1 star for the seat belt reminder system, based on the presence of a passenger at each seat. The C220 CDI has an engine power of 110 kW / 150 HP, the C180 has 105 kW / 143 HP. New diesel engines P5: 2.7 l, 125 kW / 170 hp (C270 CDI) and 3.0 L, 170 kW / 231 hp (C30 CDI AMG). 4matic all-wheel drive model.

In January 2001, the W202 was replaced with a restyled version of the W203 in the Mercedes C-Class model line. The world premiere of the novelty took place a year earlier in March 2000. Unlike its predecessors, the Mercedes C-class of the W203 series was built on a redesigned platform, it became larger and more dynamic.

In the trim levels of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class W203, three standard assembly options were assumed: Classic, Elegance and Avantgarde, plus a wide selection of every possible option. The list of basic equipment of the second generation of the C-class W203 included a multifunctional steering wheel, adjustable in height and reach, a central front armrest, remote control of doors and a trunk lock, rear head restraints, a tensioning and force limiting system for seat belts, Window-Bag side airbags, automatic system heating and ventilation with recirculation mode, automatic climate control, outside temperature sensor, automatic child seat recognition system, automatic passenger recognition system front seat... The interior of the Mercedes W203 was trimmed with the noble wood of Calyptus Linea. The car was equipped with an automatic dipped beam system, fog lights. The basic configuration of the Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse W203 included a trip computer, an ELCOD system, repeaters in the side mirrors, and a SPEEDTRONIC system that controls the maximum speed.

In 2000, two luxury assemblies from AMG and Designo tuning studios were added to the standard configurations of the Mercedes W203. By 2002, modifications of the C-class W203 were replenished with all-wheel drive versions with the proprietary Mercedes system 4MATIC and a seven-speed automatic transmission 7G-Tronic. In March 2005, Mercedes-Benz prepared two sports small-scale assemblies of the C-Class model: Sport Edition and Sport Edition +.

The basic configuration of the Mercedes-Benz C W203 includes more than twenty innovative solutions previously used in higher class cars. The cabin has two two-stage front airbags and two side airbags, plus side rods for the front passengers. As additional option it was possible to order two side airbags for the rear passengers.

Compared to its predecessors, the second generation of the C-class received significant changes in the body structure and chassis. Mercedes-Benz W203 is equipped with a new MacPherson-type front suspension with triple wishbones. The steering gear is sharper and the ventilated disc brakes are oversized. The structure of the front part of the Mercedes C-Klasse W203 body is built on the principle of combined replaceable deformation modules, which made it possible to replace them quickly and without significant investments in the event of an accident. According to the results of crash tests, the front replaceable module with head-on collision extinguished the impact energy, leaving the side members and body of the W203 intact. A special aluminum subframe on which the power unit and suspension are attached, used in the production of the second generation of the C-Class W203 series, guaranteed a decrease in the level of body vibrations from the front wheels and the power unit.

After four years of production mercedes models C-Class W 203 performed a "facelift", or as the Germans called MoPf (an abbreviation for "Modellpflege"). The C-Class Model T W203 station wagons were assembled at DaimlerChrysler's Bremen plant, while the main production of the MB W203 sedans (including left-hand drive versions) from April 2004 to December 2006 was transferred to the plant in the South African division of Daimler & Mercedes in East London. The CL203 sports coupe was manufactured at a plant in Sindelfingen until the spring of 2007, after which production was transferred to a plant in Juiz de Fora (Brazil).

Unlike the previous generation, mercedes versions C-Klasse W203 paid great attention to the problem of corrosion. Structural elements, fastening systems were changed, new materials were used for molding and stamping panels, doors, wheel arches, hood and trunk lids. In 2006, the 2 millionth copy of the C-Class W203 was assembled. The modification is considered the best in the history of the production of the model family of the Mercedes C-class.

The W203 sedan was available with engines ranging from 102 to 367 hp. (75 - 270 kW). The luggage compartment of the C-Class W203 was 455 liters. Thanks to its excellent streamlining and aerodynamic drag coefficient Cx \u003d 0.26, the Mercedes-Benz W203 was distinguished by its indicative characteristics of directional stability, maneuverability and handling.

"Combi", i.e. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class W203 Model T, in the front and inside the cabin, was identical to the base sedan and was equipped with similar engines. The trunk volume of the Model T W203 station wagon was 470 liters in standard condition and 1350 liters with the rear row seats folded.

From May 2008 to February 2011, a modification of the CL203 coupe was assembled on the platform of the Mercedes C W203 sedan. The two-door coupe based on the C-Class sedan was produced at the Bremen plant and at Mercedes' partner plant in Brazil. A sports coupe based on the W203 - the Mercedes-Benz CL203 model differed from its "older brothers" by three doors and the design of the rear part of the body. The rear of the coupe was decorated with a spoiler integrated into the rear door, made of transparent plastic. The compartment's trunk could accommodate a cargo volume of 310 liters. Compared to the sedan and wagon, the Mercedes CL203 coupe had a limited choice power units... Clients were offered gasoline engines power in the range of 90-200 kW, four diesel versions and two charged versions from AMG (C32 AMG and C30 CDI).

After the transfer of production to South America, the coupe received a number of significant changes in the exterior and technical terms, and was introduced into a separate model line CLC-Class. Four options gasoline engines and two diesel engineinherited from the W203 and W204 versions of the CLC coupe, have been redesigned and optimized. The fuel consumption of the modernized power units has decreased by an average of 11%. Inside the coupe, new original interior details have appeared - sporty, anatomically contoured seats, generous interior trim made of new textile materials, leather and polished aluminum. Unlike the sedan and station wagon, the coupe was equipped with a sports three-spoke steering wheel and the latest generation of infotainment systems. Navigation information was displayed on a large color display. The on-board computer of the car received a capacious hard disk, a CD / DVD reader, a synchronization system with an iPod, USB ports, a multimedia system. In mid-2011, the Mercedes CLC (W203) coupe was replaced by a successor model - a coupe based on the Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204 series.

The successor to the W203 series, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204 series was unveiled in March 2007 at the Geneva Motor Show. At the end of 2007, the second generation Mercedes C-Class W203 was withdrawn from the Mercedes-Benz lineup in favor of the next third generation model.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202) lasted seven years on the assembly line. During this time, more than 1.8 million vehicles left the production line. The new generation C (W203) appeared in 2000. A year later, along with a sedan and a station wagon, a three-door coupe entered the market. In 2004, the "tseshka" underwent a restyling, which, in addition to light stylistic adjustments, brought an increase in the level of equipment and an increase in quality. The modernization did not bypass the side of the chassis: stronger bearings, silent blocks and reinforced rear stabilizer... Has been improved mechanical box gear.

Diesel units comply with Euro IV emission standards, and power has increased by 7-150 hp. A year later (in 2005), the engine range was adjusted. In particular, a new six-cylinder turbodiesel with 225 hp has appeared. (320 CDI), which was combined with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic transmission 7G-Tronic. The C-Class was offered in four trim levels: Classic, Elegance, Avantgarde, Sportline. In 2007, the W203 gave way to the next generation W204.

Appearance and Body:

Unlike the two previous generations, the W203 was produced not only as a sedan and station wagon, but also as a hatchback. When buying a Mercedes in the two hundred and third body, first of all, you should pay attention to cars not older than 2004, the fact is that after restyling in 2004 it was used new technology painting and new paints and varnishes. Rust may appear on dorestayling "shops". The body of Mercedes W203 is galvanized by 85%, for comparison - the body of the previous "shop" was galvanized by 65%. The two hundred and third Mercedes behaves much better on high speeds, because the lift has decreased by 57%. The two hundred and third Mercedes in comparison with the two hundred and second became 10 mm longer, the wheelbase of the "tseshka" increased by 25 mm.

After restyling, the diameter of the base wheel rims, if the pre-styling cars in the base were shod in tires with a dimension of 195/65 R15, then after restyling, the Mercedes began to shoe in tires with a dimension of 205/55 R16. The drag coefficient of the Mercedes W203 is 0.26, which is comparable to the drag indicators of the Mercedes E-class W211, which is the same age as the monitored car. You can pay attention to the photo, the photos show all three types of Mercedes W203 bodies.

What is it good for?

The driving characteristics of the car are the envy of all classmates. On the one hand, excellent handling, which will be the envy of BMW, and on the other - very good comfort, if, of course, the wheels are not too big. Do not expect a very smooth ride, this car is quite tough, but thanks to the new steering with a rack and an excellent chassis tuning, the car is really able to please the driver on the go.

Of course, the back here is cramped, there is not enough room for the feet, but this once again emphasizes the focus of the C-class on the driver - he is fine here, there is no less space than in more large cars... In addition, there is good noise insulation, very decent quality materials and well-thought-out ergonomics.

There were three body types to choose from - a traditional sedan, a utility wagon and a "coupe", which in fact turns out to be a typical three-door hatchback, very practical in the city, since the length of such a car is noticeably shorter than with "classic" bodies. Interior trim levels to choose from, upholstery materials from high-quality, but simple fabric to excellent leather. List additional equipment It is not outdated at all: here is the advanced Comand system, and rain sensors, and a rear-view camera, and dual-zone climate control, and heated seats, and electric drives with memory ... Yes, here, in general, there is everything that car owners are used to this level, and even a little more - the level of comfort is quite modern.

With age, "crickets" start up in the cabin, especially on cars with a sports suspension and large wheels, but frankly it will not start to rattle even after unsuccessful reinforcement work. In general, the car seems perfect, and given its price - even better than a new one. Well, it's time to take a closer look at the nuances of the operation of various units.

Technical part and characteristics of Mercedes C-class W203

It was at the Two hundred and third Mercedes that the CommonRail injection system was first installed on gasoline engines. The line of power units is quite extensive, compressors were often installed on the "tseshki", which allowed the four-cylinder Mercedes W203 to keep up with its counterparts with gasoline V6. The base engine of the M111 series with a volume of 1.8 liters produces 129 horsepower. The power of the C180K compressor is 143 horsepower, the C200K produces 163 horsepower, in the period from 2000 to 2002 the C200K had a volume of 2.0 liters and produced a torque of 230 N.M, after 2002 the engine volume decreased by 200 cubic meters, the torque increased by 10 N.M, power indicators have not changed.

The compressor C230, with a volume of 1.9 liters, produces 192hp, the torque is 260N.M. Consider the performance of Mercedes six-cylinder gasoline engines. The six-cylinder naturally aspirated C230 produces 204 horsepower with a volume of 2.5 liters. The C240 \u200b\u200bhas a volume of 2.6 liters, its naturally aspirated V6 produces 170 horsepower at the output. The C280 with a volume of 3.0 liters develops 231 power, the power of the C320 - 218 horsepower, the C350 produces 272hp, and the top-end C32AMG - 354 horsepower and 450N.M. The diesel C200CDI 2.2l develops 115hp, the C220CDI with a volume of 2.4l produces 144hp, and the five-cylinder C270CDI - 170hp. It is worth saying that the six-cylinder modifications of the "tseshka" cost the same as the base E-class, so when buying a new car, most buyers chose four-cylinder engines, often with compressor supercharging.

In the basic configuration, the "tseshka" was equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, as an option, five, and later a seven-speed automatic transmission were available. For the C320, an automatic machine was already offered in the database. MCP two hundred and third are considered not serviced, but still every 80,000 km it is worth changing the oil. Clutch two hundred and third with normal driving is 150 - 180 thousand.

The indisputable advantage of the two hundred and third shop is the presence of a timing chain drive; in the gas distribution mechanism, the chain tensioner should be changed every 60,000 km. It is not uncommon when, due to bad candles and, as a result, fuel that has not burned out in the combustion chamber, the electronic unit control turned off the nozzle in the cylinder, because the afterburning of fuel in the exhaust system negatively affects the durability of the converter. Compressor motors should be changed regularly air filter... It is advisable for the owners of diesel "tseshek" to flush the fuel tank every 5000 km.

The suspension of the Mercedes W203 is not as durable as on the Toyota Carina / Avensis. The stabilizer bushings usually do not live more than 60,000 km, and the silent blocks of the lower front levers sometimes have to be changed even after a mileage of 20,000 km, the ball bearings on the W203 are enough for 60 - 80 thousand. The front shock absorbers run 90,000 km, and the steering tips are enough for the same period. Silent blocks of rear Mercedes levers serve 100 thousand, two hundred and third wheel bearings usually do not disturb the owner up to 100,000 km of run. There are also enough brake discs for 100,000 km.

Let's pay attention to the technical characteristics of the Mercedes C200K W203 with MKP6.

Specifications:

Powerplant: 2.0 petrol, mechanical boost

Volume: 1998cube

Power: 163hp

Torque: 230N.M

Number of valves: 16v

Performance indicators:

Speed \u200b\u200bgain 0 -100km: 9.3s

Limiting speed: 230km

Combined fuel consumption: 9.7L

Volume fuel tank: 62l

Dimensions: 4530mm * 1730mm * 1430mm

Wheelbase: 2720mm

Curb weight: 1390kg

Ground clearance / clearance: 150mm

Chassis

The second generation Mercedes C-Class, in comparison with its predecessor, received an ideal chassis with a small share of sporty emotions. The designers replaced the pseudo McPherson trapezoidal arm with a pair of lower wishbones, with separately replaceable silent blocks. However, the first pancake came out lumpy. The arm silent blocks wore out quickly, and the suspension began to knock. The manufacturer soon refined the element with more wear-resistant materials and launched a revocable campaign to replace the unreliable silent blocks. In addition, the stabilizer attachment had to be modified to exclude the ingress of dirt and sand, which contributes to the rapid wear of the stabilizer itself. Stabilizers still suffer from premature wear today, with the exception of the top AMG version. The rear suspension is not a problem, although light alloy components are used there.

After the modernization, the durability of the suspension increased slightly. The suspension settings have also changed slightly. Engineers have managed to make the chassis tighter with little or no loss in comfort, which translates into lower roll and increased track stability.

Engines

Gasoline.

Inline four-cylinder:

C180 - 2.0 / 130 HP (10/2000 - 05/2002)

C180 Kompressor - 1.8 / 143 HP (from 05/2002)

C200 Kompressor - 2.0 / 163 HP (05/2000 - 05/2002)

C200 Kompressor - 1.8 / 163 HP (from 05/2002)

C230 Kompressor - 1.8 / 192 HP (from 02/2004)

Six-cylinder:

C230 - 2.5 / 204 hp (from 01/2005)

C240 - 2.6 / 170 hp (from 05/2000)

C280 - 3.0 / 231 hp (from 01/2005)

C320 - 3.2 / 218 hp (from 05/2000)

C350 - 3.2 / 272 hp (from 01/2005)

C240 4MATIC - 2.6 / 170 HP (from 07/2002)

C280 4MATIC - 3.0 / 231 HP (from 01/2005)

C320 4MATIC - 3.2 / 218 HP (from 07/2002)

C350 4MATIC - 3.2 / 272 hp (from 01/2005)

C32 AMG Kompressor - 3.2 / 354 hp

Eight-cylinder:

C55 AMG - 5.4 / 367 hp (from 02/2004)

Diesel.

Four-cylinder turbocharged:

C200 CDI - 2.1 / 116 HP (from 03/2001)

C200 CDI - 2.1 / 122 HP (from 04/2003)

C220 CDI - 2.1 / 143 HP (from 03/2001)

C220 CDI - 2.1 / 136 HP (from 08/2006)

C220 CDI - 2.1 / 150 HP (from 02/2004)

Five-cylinder turbocharged:

C270 CDI - 2.7 / 170 HP (from 12/2000)

C30 CDI AMG - 3.0 / 231 HP (from 01/2003)

Six-cylinder turbocharged:

C320 CDI 3.0 / 224 hp (from 01/2005)

C320 CDI 3.0 / 231 hp (from 01/2005)

Transmission

All engines (except C320) used a 6-speed manual gearbox. Until 2002, there was a problem with the synchronizers of the first three speeds. After restyling, the flaw was eliminated. An alternative to the manual transmission will be the 5-speed automatic 5G-Tronic, which appeared in Mercedes in 1989. The automatic transmission works slowly and smoothly. According to many experts, it is less reliable than the previous 4-speed automatic. To keep the box in shape, you need to regularly change the oil every 60,000 km, including the filter. Otherwise, repairs are inevitable - about $ 1000-2000. The 7-speed 7G-Tronic automatic is even less reliable, but performs well and provides low fuel consumption.

Typical malfunctions

When examining a used Mercedes C class with a diesel engine, pay particular attention to the operation of the glow plugs and injectors. The lighted indicator should go out immediately after starting. Inspect the engine by removing the plastic cover. Any replacement of spark plugs or nozzles is not easy and not cheap. For example, repairing injectors will cost about $ 140. Until 2003, diesel turbochargers quickly wore out.

A thorough inspection should also be carried out for wear on the front suspension components. In case of problems with the electronics, a message may appear indicating that the parking brake is engaged, although in fact it will be unlocked. This is typical for cars assembled before 2003. There are also fuel leaks from the high pressure pump of diesel modifications. In addition, problems with the ignition switch, the fuel gauge and the catalytic converter are common (in almost all cars before 2003).

The 5-speed automatic should be checked for leaks. 6-speed mechanics can be troubling with knocking out gears, especially in Mercedes C-class of the first years of production.

Be careful with vehicles recovered from an accident. In the future, such a copy can cause many problems. Spare parts for Mercedes are not cheap and not all can be obtained from the aftermarket.

Open the hood and be sure to inspect the water drain holes. If they are clogged with dirt, there is a high likelihood of corrosion near the windshield. In addition, clogged drains tend to allow water to enter the electronics.

In the early years, dual-zone climate control was the real source of problems. He ceased to regulate the temperature of the supplied air stream. The reason is a broken damper, which is responsible for mixing warm and cold air. The manufacturer later fixed the problem by modifying the assembly.

In 2003-2004 cars, there were problems with the buckles of the front seat belts. Mercedes solved it during the recall campaign. The first copies suffered from ridiculous flaws, such as creaking pedals. The Mercedes C-class W203 has become hostage to the growing demand for electronics and multiplex networks - electronics fail from time to time.

The cost

The price of a well-kept Mercedes C-class W203 is about $ 20,000. Mercedes price varies mainly from the condition of a particular vehicle.

Modifications Mercedes C-class W203

Mercedes C 180K MT W203

Mercedes C 180K AT W203

Mercedes C 200K MT W203

Mercedes C 200K AT W203

Mercedes C 230K MT W203

Mercedes Benz W203 C200K "Review" and operating experience, sores