C-class buyer’s guide
Mk3 Mercedes makes an excellent second-hand buy
THERE was a time when you hardly ever saw a Mercedes on British roads because they were so expensive and exclusive. Then the maker started to chase volume, prices dropped and now there’s one on every corner.
It can’t be denied that cars such as the C-class have made Mercedes a far more accessible brand than it used to be. The firm sold almost 2.5 million examples of the third-generation model. With more than 165,000 being bought in the UK there are plenty about – but three years after that version was replaced, is it worth buying?
History
THE C-class Mk3 saloon arrived in June 2007; an Estate followed eight months later. At launch there were supercharged 1.8 (C180K, C200K), 2.5 (C230), 3.0 (C280) or 3.5-litre (C350) petrol engines, along with 2.2 (C200 CDI) and 3.0-litre (C320 CDI) turbodiesels. The 457bhp C63 AMG appeared in January 2008, a 1.8 petrol C250 CGI followed in May 2009, alongside the 2.1-litre C220 CDI diesel engine; the C350 CDI also replaced the C320 CDI.
A facelifted C-class arrived in September 2012, featuring new model names. Most got extra standard kit. At the same time, the C180K Blueefficiency replaced the C180K with an all-new supercharged 1.6litre petrol engine that was significantly more economical than its predecessor.
Which one?
ALL C-class engines and transmissions are good. Automatics tend to be easier to sell; some cars got a five-speed auto gearbox, while others had seven speeds. Unless you cover big annual mileages, don’t dismiss a petrol-engined car. The smaller units are surprisingly economical and a lot cheaper to buy than equivalent diesel editions.
All C-classes have ESP and seven airbags, along with Bluetooth, alloy wheels, climate control, front and rear parking sensors, plus electrically adjustable seats. Elegance spec adds wood trim and extra chrome bits, plus automatic wipers. Sport models add lowered suspension, a bodykit and sharper steering to the recipe.
Desirable extras worth seeking out include leather trim, intelligent lighting and the COMAND multimedia system.
Alternatives
THE Mercedes’ key rivals have long been seen as the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series. Both are solidly constructed, available with some superb engines and transmissions, and are good to drive but costly to buy.
While the BMW is more of an enthusiast’s favourite due to its superior dynamics, both BMW and Audi are available with four-wheel drive, which improves their towing abilities.
The Mazda 6 is more affordable than the BMW and better equipped, plus it’s a joy to drive; it’s also available in saloon and estate forms, albeit with a limited engine range. Also worth a look is the reliable Mk2 Lexus IS (2005-2013), which is packed with standard equipment and came with just a 2.5 V6 petrol or 2.2-litre diesel engine.
Verdict
WITH a wide choice of bodystyles, engines, transmissions and trim levels, there’s a C-class for everyone. From the frugal fourcylinder engines to the V8 AMG editions, this compact exec is very alluring.
It may be Mercedes’ smallest saloon and estate, but those classy looks and that three-pointed star on the grille impress.
The reputation is deserved, too, because while you pay for the privilege, the C-class is generally reliable. The key issue is the high running costs, so if you buy a C-class, make sure you can afford to maintain it.
“It may be Mercedes’ smallest saloon and estate, but those classy looks and that three-pointed star impress”
THE Mercedes C-class is a great-looking car that delivers good performance, a refined drive and a stylish interior. One of the best-selling German cars, it’s a leading contender in the compact executive market. All models are good to drive, safe and comfortable.
Common faults
THERE have been a few issues relating to the gearbox, intercooler and airbags. Repairs cost around £1,000-£3,000.