Here is the first review from one of our readers
Driving Impressions: 2005 Mercedes C230 Kompressor Sport Sedan and C240 4Matic Sedan
By: Paul S. Henriques
In the late 1970s, Mercedes-Benz was looking to expand its market share by moving down market into the compact luxury sedan segment. The year was 1983 when the 190E, predecessor to what is now the C class range, debuted. And now, 22 years later, the compact Mercedes has matured into quite the accomplished automobile and is no longer considered a stodgier alternative to the BMW 3 series.
The current C class epitomizes what's right about German vehicles; tasteful, restrained styling, engineering to a fault and a planted to the road feel. I was lucky enough this month to test drive a C230 Kompressor and spend a weekend with a C240 4Matic, both cars being 5 speed automatics. As you will see, these are two very distinct but similar motorcars worthy of praise.
First, the C230 Kompressor. Being the proud owner of a 1998 C230 with a non-kompressor (supercharger for you Yanks) engine, I was curious to see just how different the latest kompressor engine was. I was pleasantly surprised. Although a little unsettled on idle and at low speeds, the supercharged four cylinder power plant is just as punchy as the V6 and as smooth on the highway, while delivering superior fuel economy.
Handling was spot on, the sport package giving the C a firm yet controlled feel. Even with larger than normal 17 inch rims, the ride was not jarring. Inside, the traditional wood trim is replaced by brushed aluminum accents, and tinted blue glass takes the edge off intense sunlight. This car, while perhaps not as pure of a drivers' car as the BMW 3 series is, definitely has the credentials to adopt the term sport sedan.
The C240 is quite a different proposition. From startup, you can tell the difference in character, the smooth purr of the V6 coming to life and settling into a relaxed rhythm. On takeoff, there is less engine noise, but even though you're about 20 horsepower shy of the supercharged 4 cylinder, it feels just as powerful. The 168hp V6 is well suited for this size car, not underpowered but not insanely overpowered either.
The big difference in this particular car over the C230 was the four wheel drive system. Having driven non-4Matic C240s, I can tell you that this system is transparent. However, taking a sharp right hander at about 40 mph, you really get a sense at how well this car hangs on versus your traditional rear drive Benz. There's a composure about it that would make my old Benz blush. On the highway, the traditional planted feel is in tact, cruising at 90mph plus (don't try this at home, kids) is an effortless proposition, as it feels like you're going no faster than 50mph.
Inside, the '05 models are upgraded over previous W203 C classes. Whereas the '01-'04 models had some questionable gauge and switchgear design, the new controls look like something you'd expect from the house of the three pointed star. Classic looking chrome ringed gauges catch your eye as you slip behind the wheel, burlwood trim accented by chrome pieces liven up the leather clad interior. Turn signals are a joy, as all you have to do is touch one way or the other and let go, and instantly the car will automatically flash the signal three times. Handy for passing situations and the like.
The exterior design of the current C class has worn well with this year's mild update. While current BMWs and Audis have become fashion victims at times, the restraint that Mercedes designers show executes into clean, uncluttered designs that stand the test of time. It says something when people ask me whether my '98 C230 is new. It could be because I have the cleanest Mercedes-Benz in the state of Massachusetts or it could be the fact that a good design is a good design. I like to think it's a combination of the two.
With a luxury car as capable as the C class, unless you need the space or need to explore off road, the C240 4Matic is a smart alternative to your run of the mill SUV. The C230 sport sedan, however, is for those looking a little more excitement while not sacrificing the luxury and practicality Mercedes-Benz sedans are known for. As one recent advertisement stated, "life is too short and the road is too long to drive anything less than a Mercedes-Benz." Drive one of these vehicles and you too will be a believer.
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