EXCLUSIVE SPY PHOTOS: Old vs. new Mercedes C-Class-Can you spot the differences?

Were expecting the official unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show 2007, with sales starting shortly after. The wagon version, which was previously sent, will arrive at least six months after the sedan.

Although the future C Class will share more of its components than before with the larger E-Class, the next C will be much sharper to drive, and more distinctive as a range in its own right: Mercedes-Benz is to position it as a true small sports sedan, rather than simply a smaller answer to the E.

Unfortunately, we've heard that air suspension or active body control have been ruled out due to cost restraints, but there will be lots of other bells and whistles for the new C.

The base engine will be a direct injection 4-cylinder 1.8-litre with varying horsepower from 150 to 190. Horsepower for the 2.5- and 3.5-liter V6 will be 210 to 270 respectively. AMG's 5.4-liter will be revised with new horsepower rating up from today's 360 to 400-410bhp to compete with the Audi RS4 and future BMW M3. Also a 3.0-liter diesel is planned, as well as the new iDrive-like operating concept found in the new S-Class. 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system will also remain available as well.

Brenda Priddy and Company

aeyjay - 5/5/2006 5:06:49 AM

+1 Boost

I see a wider stance that looks sportier on this model. This vehicle needs it if Mercedes is aiming for BMW and Audi customers. IMHO, I wish each manufacturer would stick to what they do best and design on a standpoint of BRAND RECOGNITION and PRESENCE along with CONSISTENCY and EVOLUTION in design. I think this car looks like a product from Japan instead of Germany. Am I the only one that could see this car as a Honda or Toyota? I know it's in camo, but even seeing the real pics... oh well, it's better to see it in person. It would be nice to see this company stick to it's luxury first/sport second nature instead of trying to be the next BMW 3 series. This is a different age though and with so many boomers, and the emphasis on youth and being lithe in society, I understand why MB is on the ball with a sportier vehicle. Yet I will miss the days that I thought I would see with this company when I'm older... the PRESENCE and the former SOLID look I remember seeing on Benzes when I grew up (I'm only 24 btw... so I'm referring to the late 80's and early 90's LOL). Is Chrysler to blame LOL?

Mark - 5/5/2006 7:56:46 AM

+1 Boost

I see they have gone away with the multiple-bubble headlamps in what looks like a much more '07 S-Class look. I do see the wider stance and I can't really tell if it's longer. I don't dare say the 'square' word, but the new hood and nose have a much more angular look to them, again playing off the S-Class.

I would venture to guess they have keep the over dimensions close since it's such a well balanced car (I'm 6'3" and fit in every seat with room to spare....take that CLS). And I can't tell from the angle but the rear looks much smoother than the current generation.

lewissalem - 5/5/2006 11:01:56 AM

+1 Boost

..a little bigger to me.

JCF110 - 5/5/2006 12:49:28 PM

+1 Boost

You know I can't really tell the difference... MAYBE IT WILL HELP TO SEE IT WITHOUT THE CAMO! I mean you can't just say it looks the same if we have not seen it without the camo! ]




Honestly in my opinon I think this new C Class will lok kinda' nice but I'm sure it will seel good. Espescially here in Canada!

MBKing - 5/5/2006 5:02:01 PM

+1 Boost

If we look at 2005 c-class or 2006 wouldn't make a big difference on body really and the 2005 3 series, before body change, hands down the beemer takes the merc. But as far as the new 2006 3-series goes it leaves the door pretty open for competition. If Mercedes plays its cards right and creates something a lot stronger looking and sportier than their girly looking c-class right now they will take the crown for sports sedans among the two. So as far as respect goes, yes the 3 has it but seriously puts it all at jeopardy with its new model.<br>
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As far as the new c-class goes, if Mercedes keeps their new mindset that created the S-class and CLS then I'm getting prepared to be blown away but this new one.