2002 MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class

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251,000 Miles
120,252
Miles above average

Vehicle Details

Mileage: 251000
Color: Gold
Body Style: Sedan
Transmission: Automatic
Engine Type: 2.6L
Drive Train: RWD
Fuel: Gasoline
Location: Louisville, KY
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Vehicle Rating & Owner Reviews

Overall Rating
4.3
  Based on 317 reviews

Benz beats all

5
Shawn Elmore on 07/18/2016

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: 5 Value Rating: 5

Best bang for your buck bar none.

Slim & Trim

4
Lee Schlough on 10/26/2015

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: Safety Rating: 4 Technology Rating: 4 Value Rating: 4

This car was purchased by my mother in law and my wife acquired it when she passed. Great second car, nice looking but lacks a good sized trunk and is a bit tight for a guy 6 ft 2. Great car for ladies.

Great car!!!

5
Hamlet Cabrera on 08/27/2015

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: 5 Value Rating: 5

Horrible car

2
Alex on 08/06/2015

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2 Safety Rating: 3 Technology Rating: 1 Value Rating: 1

I bought the car with 160k miles on it in 2013 and was I though that the car should last really long with no problems. But unfortunately, it was nothing than nightmare. I diagnosed the car before buying and everything was fine. My first mechanical problem occurred after 2.5 months - automatic door went out, I payed 400$ to fix it. After a week rear window automatic sunshade went off as well, I decided to leave it as is, since it too expensive to repair. In 3 more months alternator and battery died. In 3 more months blow motor problems started to take place, hot air only and wasn't able to turn air conditioner off until shut off the car, so I replaced blow motor, but after 2 weeks climate control panel stopped working. After some period of time the car just stalled on the road, the car was towed and crankshaft sensor was dead. In 1 month water pump started to jamming and the car stalled couple of time again. In addition, rust started to occur all over the car and it the car looked horrible, just horrible. Transmission problems took place as well, sometimes it was shifted strange and it stocked on the same gear two times, so I pulled out the car and restarted the engine. So, after I spend 3000$ on repairs I decided to sell it. Even though I paid a little more than 4k when I bought it, maximum I got is 2.5K. It was such a relief to rid off from this car. The only con was that the car was extremely fast and fund to drive, but it can not compensate all mechanical issues.

Fun to drive but get ready to $$$

2.8
oneill ki on 04/26/2015

Performance: 4 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

I bought my 2002 c230 used with 70xxx miles and have had nothing but problems here's a list: 1.water pump went out and car overheated costing $1400. 2. Sun shade/ roof won't open or close $1200. Rear Diff seal/ leakage in suspension causing rear tires to wear rapidly $1400. Drivers window will not go up or down (still broken). Horn stopped working (still broken) Seats have a short in wire causing battery to die (still broken). On the flip side the car is fast and fun to drive. The people at Mercedes actually know my face when I walk in for repairs. I almost wanted to invite them to my family Christmas party since I'm there so often we've built a close friendship.

She's been great for us!

4.8
cch204 on 02/16/2015

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Purchased car with 25,000. It's been a great car! Only true "Failings" have been the door arm rests, ($50 each) power seat brains (Both have electrical shorts, $500 each) and the rear sun shade. ($1,000 fix) Car get's between 25 & 30 mpg on the freeway. Just keep at a good speed. Car took us to Mexico (5 years) for a job and did great! Very safe and satisfying. HAS NEVER left us stranded. EVER. Normal servicing, about every six months for oil changes and add a quart of oil about every three months or so. She needed struts at 115k and changed the plugs and wires at 125k. She still purrs like a kitten!

I LOVE this car!

5
conniej1954 on 06/15/2012

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my 2002 Mercedes c320 4 door sedan in December 2011 with only 68,000 miles on it. I also bought a warrranty. I have had it in the shop a few times but only to get the scheduled maintanance done that the previous owner did not do. A lot of the things were actually covered under my warranty. I love the Tulsa, Okla Mercedes dealership, Jackie Cooper Imports. They are top of the line for the way they treat customers and do the car repairs, etc. I love my car! I am 57 years old and have never had a car that I have enjoyed more in my life.

Really good car

4.8
ildd on 05/06/2012

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Well, 1st let me say that I am 17 and this was my 1st car. We've had it since 2004, it has 56k miles on it, and we have never had a SINGLE problem(knocks on the beautiful wood inside the car). I like alot of the things about the car, but if your 6'1 it can be a little challenging getting in and out comfortably. It rides nice, it looks great with a couple minor upgrades(tinted windows, non-stock M-B rims) and it handles very well. The only thing I don't like about it is, of course, the engine and how it works. I've driven 6 other cars and this is the slowest in 1st/2nd gear, but it flies once you hit 3rd. It also doesn't help taking premium gas, while getting 16 MPG. Gotta love it. It's a MB.

2002 C230 Kompressor /Coupe

3.8
johnny3691 on 01/23/2012

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Do not buy a 2002 C230 Kompressor, I bought it new in Mid-2001 and now have 155k. The following work are being done now and some work were done last year: Cost around $3000.00 Front Suspension shock absorbers Front Right sway Bar link Adjust wheel bearings Left and right torque struts left lower ball joint Sway Bar Front Brake Pads and Rotors Maintenance average $2000.00-$2500.00 in 2008-2009. Right lower ball joints/Arms. The engine lights problem was very expensive to fix. I spent $2500.00 for check engine light problems and the problem only went away for about 1 week. The dealer simply told me to pay more money to replace more parts. I finally gave up on the engine light.

Great Entry Benz!!!!

4.8
Anonymous on 12/06/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought a c230 Kompressor Coupe in may 2008 with only 65,000 for less then 8,000. Great deal on a great car. The car handles, accelerates, and stops flawlessly. I hit a deer going 75 and came out with just a dent.Had i been in a Honda or something of less quality guarantee the car would be totaled and myself injured. I got the car fixed and has been awesome and reliable. Maintenance is high- find a loyal cheap foreign repair shops with ex Mercedes Benz mechanics. worth the savings.

Finally gone!

2.8
Vehiclist on 11/28/2010

Performance: 4 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 2

This car was bought from a Cadillac dealership - it had been traded for a Cadillac. That should have been our first clue. Though fun to drive, at times, the car is extremely unreliable, falling apart around us, very expensive to repair, and one of the most uncomfortable luxury or near luxury vehicles I have ever driven. The C class is the epitome of over engineering, poor quality build, and a manufacturer currently resting on a mythical reputation. This was our families second and last Mercedes. We just traded it (for a pittance) on a Lincoln MKZ. It might not be German and for that, we are truly grateful. Perhaps the only thing to miss is the sound the MB door makes when closing.

I can't even Lie about it..

1.6
Mike in VA on 07/22/2010

Performance: 2 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

To be perfectly honest I was going to leave an excellent review, Why? Because I need to get rid of this absolute failure of a car! But I thought and came to the conclusion: I can't even lie about this piece of junk, I wouldn't be able to sleep at night. I bought it used in 04 with 22K, still under warranty, within 2 months the transmission went out, they replaced free with a new one, not too bad right? WRONG! then (no warranty) due to the tranny problem (or visa versa) the torque converter and radiator went bad: $3500 2 catalepsy converters: $1100 ea 2 alternators: $1000ea 2 mass airflow intakes: $900ea 5 SETS OF TIRES AND 4 BREAK JOBS (with rotors), they don't give us enough room to list all failures

Problems, problems, followed by 10 grand

3.4
Benznogood on 06/29/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

This car is an absolute mess. 3 Months and thousands of dollars later I couldn't have bought a bigger lemon. Its falling apart. Supercharger out. ECU out. Having a legal battle with Mercedes over warranty work that should be done, but its not. I'm not so much mad at the car. The Mercedes corporation is awful. What a bunch of no good tightwads. Its has been nothing but an absolute nightmare dealing with them. They refuse to honor their warranty. The car rattles, electronics go out. Oh and to fix ALL the problems they have the audacity to ask for ten thousand dollars. No way. I hope everyone else has a better experience.

REPEATED COSTLY REPAIRS - NIGHTMARE

3
WARRENFDS on 04/26/2010

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

expensive repairs. seat electronics cost $4000. remote key did not work, omni bar changed $1000. Spark plug wires defective recommeded fix $1500. Defective Lower front control arms fix $750. These are not routine maintenance issues but defective manufacturing which I do not expect on a $40,000 german car. Pls do not buy Mercedese if they are not able to guarantee defective products in their vehicles.

Very satisfied

4.1
Jean-Michel on 04/04/2010

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased this 2002 c-240 in October 2009 with only 62,000 Km. 6 months later, the odometer is 82,000 Km and never had any problems with this car. I maintain my car with synthetic oil.

C230 Sports Coupe is fun to drive

4.6
dannymurph on 03/22/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

We have owned this car for 8+ years and have enjoyed driving the stick shift every mile. Very peppy engine, yet over 30 mpg on the highway. Very good handling.

You've been warned! Don't buy it!

2.4
RLee on 03/15/2010

Performance: 1 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

I bought this car when gas prices were $4 a gallon in Texas. It looked nice, drove well, got good gas mileage and had very low mileage. I thought it would be a great little car for my 75 mile daily round trip. I paid what I thought was a fair price, and my bank even offered to finance more. Since my purchaser, I have replaced or repaired the following (at 29,000 mi): brakes, alternator, radiator, blinker (and not just bulbs-housing), had major electrical problems, automatic rear passenger door, front passenger seat module (drained battery), CD player no longer works, sunroof just went out last week,drivers seat no longer works, steering control no longer works, another blinker went out . .

Sa-weet Ride!

4.6
Celia on 03/15/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Great turning radius, easy to drive and park, and looks good. Great speaker quality. Cruise control--unlike with some cars--will hold your mileage steady through hills and valleys. Find a great mechanic who doesn't work for Mercedes, and you can keep the maintenance costs down. Solid and safe car!

I love My MB

4.4
Ryan on 02/09/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

A great car but got some bad stuff Engine is powerful and awesome especially when you reaches 65 70 miles/ hour you'll be flouting on air! its cool classy car you would enjoy it if you can spend 1000$ each month on it because of the Very expensive original parts it got very good mileage on the highways it can exceed 250km/20L ( like 30mpg) on long rides . in the city it may range between 13 to 17L/100km top I face some Air Mass sensor troubles it AC compressor is went down when i spilled a drink inside the AC Oil change each 3000 km for like 50 60$ top .

Do not buy used or new

2.9
Jake on 01/09/2010

Performance: 2 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

I bought a pre-owened, certified from a reputable Mercedes Benz dealership. Cup holder didn't last. Did the maintenance as suggested, needed tires in a couple of years and brakes. Then the srs light came on $1200 ti fix. 4 years into ownership the key would not turn so had to be towed. Found out it was the battery, but only after had to pay for a diagnostic test. Noises all in the shocks. 5 years into ownership the key turn all the way with no ignition, tried a new key at $200. Still having this problem periodically, next step is to change a chip at $1200 after a diagnostic test. $$$ I can go on and on, but not enough room here. Next car will definitely not be a Benz. Buyers be ware.

Still love it

5
PFWEINTRAUB on 01/01/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought on ebay and got a good deal. Was not pristine but overall good. I upgraded tires to Michelin Hydroedge, changed plugs at 100,000 miles and use Mobil One. Car is still tight, fast, solid, fun. Looks good and gets up to 27 mpg highway. Wish I could buy a new one but they do not export C body wagon to USA any more. Big shame! Much rather have a solid used Benz than a new something less. Take care of them and they take care of you.

EPIC FAIL!!!

4.1
randy on 12/12/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

I owned this car for 6 months. it was good for a while until the compressor, traction control, stereo, moonroof, transmission all went out at the same time! otherwise it drove like a real sports car with extremely good interior comfort before the probs. i traded it in for a mazda6 and glad i did

Love this car

5
pfweintraub on 08/17/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my C320 wagon on Ebay and it is one of the best cars I've ever owned (and I've had about 30). No problems ever, gas mileage never goes below 20 and even on short trips goes over 25-26mpg. I put Michelin hi end tires on and it corners on rails even on wet pavement. Use premium gas, use Mobil 1, change oil every 5k miles and it will run forever. It was not a cream puff when I got it either.

Love it "of course"

4.9
of course on 08/11/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I absolutely love my 240,the way it handles,and the comfort of course I never have to sit in the back seat but for the dollar spent and the reliability you cannot beat this car and hwy mileage best yet 28.9 mpg and that is not doing 55.

Most Unreliable Care I Ever Owned

4.1
Jim on 08/09/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 2

Bought the car with 12,000 miles. Always wanted to stall at stop signs. Took 2 years for them to find out what was wrong. Replaced fuel pumps on good will since warranty expired. New pumps whined and they would not replace them again. Coil spring broke, power steering pump went bad. Crankshaft position sensor bad. Rust bucket - car started rusting after two years. Front end noise. Traded it in cause I was tired of all the problems. Rode great but very expensive to own. Poor mechanical quality. Worst car I ever owned.

The Nicest Terrible Car I Ever Owned

2.9
INVNTDTHWHL on 07/31/2009

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

I bought this Benz used in 2006 and it was in really good condition and low miles. Ever since then it has slowly fallen apart. Mechanically it is decent other than the expensive maintenance but the fit and finish of the car is sub par. Everything form the trim to the cup holders to the seats have broken at one time or another. This is the bottom of the MB line-up and it shows. They really just cranked these out and spit them at the consumers without quality control. Makes me never want to buy a MB or any German car for that matter again. What a shame.

Good First Timer Benz

3.9
Jesse on 06/24/2009

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I purchased my vehicle a four years ago from the authorized dealer. At the time, it was an authorized pre-owned vehicle with only 42K miles. The first year, I had no problems, but the following year, I had to replace two door handles. They literally broke off. I continue to deal with computer program glitches on an annual basis which the dealer has suggested I obtain an updated software from Germany. I have also had to replace the engine mounts shocks only after 80K miles! Mercedes were once known for their durability and QUALITY ABOVE ALL. It seems like too much plastic for a Mercedes. However, it is a fun vehicle to drive, turns on a dime and great first time Benz.

great car

4
fun car on 05/17/2009

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

i bought the car a year ago i put close to 3 thousand miles an not a problem an the car still runs great

So far, so good

4.8
devbert on 12/02/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car as a graduation present for myself in 2003. It was two years old with 25,000 miles. The only real problem I've had is a noisy power steering pump. It quieted down once I had the fluid replaced. I've driven it 88,000 miles over five years and have not had any repairs (although I've had the power steering pump checked for the noise. More fluid fixed the problem). So far this has been the most trouble- free car I've owned. Of course, the $90 oil changes are annoying, but they are only required once a year. The routine brake jobs (avg. cost $1,000 every 60,000 miles at a non-MB mechanic) are also excessive. But, that's what I get for driving a MB. It's been a good car!

Never buy this car

1.5
Melissa on 09/13/2008

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

I bought this car with 50000 miles on it. I drove it off the lot of the whole sale dealer and the day after started having problems. It may be because it's used and I don't know how the person before me treated the car. I've had the car for a year and put over $4,000 into it already in repairs. As soon as it's fixed something else seems to go wrong. Not to mention the gas mileage is terrible!

Selling this car

4.1
Amy on 09/10/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

I got this car two years ago and loved it. But after 6 months everthing started to fall apart. My sunroof doesn't work. And the dealership said it would cost around $1000 to fix. My engine has had so much work done and has taken 5 weeks total. And it still needs more work. And the exhaust needs work too. This car is a money pit!

Biggest mistake of my life.

2.9
Jerry on 07/11/2008

Performance: 2 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I purchased this used from a MB dealer with only 35000 miles. The moment I left the dealership, I started having problems with shaking, idling rough. It took 3 visits to the MB dealer in Florida before they corrected the problem. I have had this car in the shop so many times I lost count. Everything goes wrong with this piece of junk: Electrical system, door locks, instrument computer, door handle fell off, gaskets, seals, wheel problems, rotors, oil smells, AC going out, lights burning out constantly, etc. The service plan I purchased ($3500.00) ended up not covering most of the things and when it did, I paid $200 deductible each and every time.

It's been real good

4
Brian S on 07/09/2008

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

The car is coming up on seven years old. In those years it has been quite reliable. The supercharged engine gets 32-35 MPG on the highway, but still has great pick up when you need to punch up acceleration. City MPG suffers a bit in stop & go traffic. I am 6' 1" and find there is plenty of leg and head room. The hatch is great - too bad Americans do not favor this handy body style.

Love My Little Car

4.6
BarbaraTina on 06/26/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My experience owning a C230 has been delightful. I enjoy the spacious interior especially the fact that even someone with long legs may ride comfortably in the backseat. The sunroof has been such a pleasure. Also the glass top over the rear passengers seats make it unique. The car is very maneouverable and easy to fit into almost any parking space. The option to go from automatic to manual is fun. I appreciate the safe design of the car and the high crash test rating. The car is fun, safe and such a pleasure to drive. The only thing I see they could improve upon would be the comfortability of the seats. They feel too hard and flat. The actual seats leave alot to be desired.

Buy Lexus

3
DONNELL on 05/29/2008

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

I'm sorry but this car is junk. Replaced cluster module, rear stan, and engine. CD player now doesn't work, light over license plate has been replaced twice. Too many electrical problems for a vehicle that was purchased brand new. Quality is gone and I'll never purchase a Mercedes Benz again. My next vehicle will be a Lexus. I've had a lexus in the past with no problems at all.

Fun little car

4.3
edge83 on 05/23/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Very impressed with fuel economy. Very quick, but had trouble with battery. Other than that was a great car.

Buy an extended warranty

4.4
Daphne on 05/18/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

6 yrs old and 118K. At 5'2", I am very comfortable in it but my husband at 6'2" is another matter indeed. At the touch of the pedal she'll give you whiplash. Leather is sporty and stands up to daily wear. I'm gonna miss her. A superbly fun car to drive but please, please buy an extended warranty with this car. At 90K it started breaking down. Let me count the dollars. 1. rear main seal $1800 2. outside temp sensor (did not fix - $500) 3. CD changer $300 4. sunroof shade $99 part $700 labor 5. sunroof gears stripped $1800 6. catalytic converter $1300 part _$600 labor I loved this little car until it started reaching into my wallet for more than routine maintenance.

No Dream Come True

3.4
Bernd on 04/22/2008

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

This was my first car. I'm in high school and even though I'm young I love and research cars nonstop. It was my dream car until about a month ago. My sunroof cable broke and that was the only part that the extended warranty didnt cover. Less than a week later, my engine started shaking and the check engine came on. Took it in and there is a flaw with Mercedes and something in the cylinders can get stuck open and dont bet on your insurance/warranty place to cover anything. Cost for new cylinder: $5000. Too much maintainance, in shop too much, need a more reliable car so I'm selling. Overall, I love the car to death but not worth the time in the shop

Love it

4.9
Cathy on 04/20/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

For an entry-level MB, this torqy little four-banger takes off from the stop light leaving all others in the dust! So much fun to drive. Mine is arrest-me red with 17inch alloys.

Beauty & the Money Pit

2.9
raven11 on 01/15/2008

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

This was MB's attempt at wooing the younger generation to become MB owners. Unfortunately, once you get past the great looks and supercharged fun driving and look at what you got, you become very disappointed - cheap, ugly cloth seats, plastic pieces that break easily, cheap looking faux-carbon dash and frequent trips to the mechanic for problems they just can't seem to chase down because it's all computerized. Just avoid them. I tried to love it, I really did but it's just not reliable.

Huge disappointment

3.1
whatalemon on 01/06/2008

Performance: 3 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

This was my first and probably last MB. $32000 was paid and within 2 years the AC system was replaced twice. Electrical systems are a constant headache. Front right blinker stopped working and was redesigned (not recalled due to ongong failure)and then one day started working correctly again. Quality of the product is poor. I had hoped for an experience like my last car, a Toyota. Drove the Toyota for 200K miles. I would not recommend a MB to anyone.

C320 Rating

3.6
Davis on 11/23/2007

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

I am dissapointed with the quality of the C320 overall. For example, the driver and passenger seat control module failed resulting in an out of warranty cost of $827.00. The valve cover gaskets need replacing at 55K miles. The driver's window switch needs replacing. The thrust arm bushing is cracked. The driver's grab handle needs to be replaced. This car is driven by my wife and only has 55K miles. In fact, last year we only put about 5K miles on the car. We have had 2 other Benz and this may be the last one we own. The quality lacks a lot to be desired from what we experience in our other 2 Mercedes Benz.

2002 C32 AMG

4.6
Slater126 on 07/19/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Car is brutally fast. That wasn't a surprise. What was a surprise was the nature of the powerplant. Car is spookily quiet and smooth until you get into the throttle. Not anything like my edgy '97 M3/4 was. More like a Rolls powerplant as opposed to a sporty motor like the BMW straight 6s. Oh yes, the supercharger whine. It's there, and I love it. Ride is smooth and comfortable without being sloppy. I heard some complaints re the ride so maybe I'm used to sports cars? Don't know. It works for me. Ergonomics are great and materials are high quality. Gas mileage? Not so much. Ours gets 16.5 MPG average. Our '06 RSX Type-S gets 26.5 MPG in the same driving. Great car overall! 4 stars.

Easy to drive and manuever.

3.5
Hanz on 06/04/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 3

Excellent manueverability and flexibility. Easy parking and driving . Quick take off and speeding when entering freeway. 6 CD player

Great Little Car

4.1
Dokfrank on 04/20/2007

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Fun little car. I needed something practical but still a good time and this fit the bill. I have 66,000 on it and no major problems. It handles well, accelerates well, and does well on gas. Halfway between a Porsche 911 and a Honda Civic Hatchback. Great little computer to remind of every maintenance and when you are short on fluids. Automatic wipers and lights. All you have to do is drive, the car does the rest. Sometimes the wipers are fooled by repeating shadows but it is not a huge nuisance.

DC - 2002 C240 Review

4.9
JJDC2005 on 04/11/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car to drive/own. Just bought new E500. Nothing like a Benz, nothing. At 5.5 years old, still feels tighter, newer than our 1 year old Maxima.

Much improved than the late 90's Mercedes

4.8
ejaz on 03/23/2007

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had a 1999 C280 since 2003 and this car drives so much better. The 2002 C240 model rides smoother, has a higher suspension so it does not scratch against elevated driveways, has a superslick electronic display of all the computer readings, and is roomier inside.

Oh Why?

3.1
my last benz on 03/03/2007

Performance: 2 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

Not even five thousand miles the fuel pump gives out. It's in the shop for a week. Then a month later the engine goes out completely. They say it was caused by metal shards in the fuel pump lines. All is good for the next six months then I open my garge door and the dam car is sitting in a pool of gas.

Spare a trannie?

3.5
ed buhl on 02/19/2007

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

This rocket ship has been nothing but trouble. Turbo chirping, replace torque converter, replace trannie (68000), replace trannie computer, replace motor on driver's seat. This car has had factory service and was never abused, just driven. Would never own another Benz. Look forward to turning it in at lease end. It's in the shop now. Maybe they should just keep it !

Pretty good overall

4.3
MefromWA on 02/15/2007

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought my C240 in Sept. 2002. I have had problems with the right side mirror not coming back up after I put the car in drive from reverse. Took it in many times to have the problem fixed, all under warranty. I have had BAS-ESP error messages appear, and had a grinding noises in the brakes on a couple of occasions when coming to a soft stop, where the ESP light came on. (There was no way the car lost traction) The wiring on the back blinker light needed to be fixed recently, which was costly for the repair. On a recent trip to CA last summer, the air conditioning decided to stop working. The AC would die, then start back up after about a minute.

Wolf in sheep's clothing

4.9
JP on 02/14/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I ended up selecting a near-mint '02 C32 over an equally pristine '04 M3 SMG after driving both back-to- back...twice. The C32 is such an interesting car. It's interior space is very functional seating 4 easily and comfortably. It's styling. Just technical enough and different enough to set it apart. And finally, it's performance is eye opening if you pay attention - what I mean by that is the super-charged 3.2 is sooooo much smoother than the M powerplant in the M3, that unless you are truly aware of what's going on, you almost take it for granted. I would have given it a 10 in every category except it's features are almost overwhelming. The fuel economy scores low - that's my foot.

Don't Buy It.

3.6
gusrey on 02/10/2007

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

5 years after purchasing it, my wife and I are very dissapointed. There's many reasons why. Electrical problems. Excesive front tire wear. Front shocks won't last more than 24 mos. Lights are getting burned out. Engine stalls when sitting in traffic (idle rpm). It's a shame that all that hi-tech can be so high maintenance. But, there's hope, our next car is going to be a Lexus. Take that Chrysler. gGod luck out there.

Dont let the star fool you!

3.9
mikegh323 on 02/04/2007

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

This car is very overrated, and not reliable. Exterior paint is substanderd for MB product. I find that the paint chips easily and faded prematurly. The engine is very noisy and unrefined. The supercharger needs more psi boost. The climate control system is confusing and doent work well after a few years. The rims are undersized and the lug nuts rusted after a year. The electrical system seems below realiablity for a MB. Maintenance is overly expensive. Most repairs occure after the warenty and are usually in the thousands. Resale value is very low. 12k as of today. A lot of buyers remorse on this purchase!

Best made and Handling compact?Hot!

4.8
Rachelle Hanson on 12/13/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned many high end cars and when the gas prices went nuts and I moved away from the beach I needed a car that satisfied my high end needs and quality was #1. This little car was not my choice, but I fell in love with it . It has 40/60 fold down rear seats so you can bring your ski's and haul larger items and it is a kick to drive. Parking is easy. And I rarely have to stop for fuel! Gotta love it ! The side doors cubbies stink as far as use goes and there are some wicked blind spots, but once you are aware, use extra caution. I put a ton of miles on it and the stereo is great. Sunroof opens to a huge ray of light with more safety than a convertible. What's not to love?

Could be a better car

3.6
Steve on 10/30/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I really enjoy the ride and drive of my C240. I enjoy the looks and the feel of it. I have pride to own a car successful people own. I do not enjoy constantly going to the shop for very expensive repairs (three different ones in the past two months not counting others). This is not a reliable car. I keep thinking nothing else can go wrong. So many things are going wrong. I don't trust Mercedes anymore. Many times they have to always order parts from Germany. What an inconvenience!

Excellent Car!

5
Todd on 10/29/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the first Mercedes I have been purchased. After having it almost a year, I have to say that the car is fantastic! I have had no problems at all as the odometer approaches 37,000 miles. It's a great car for anyone who wants a Benz but doesn't want to go broke paying for it.

Bang for the buck plus 3-star MB badge

4.4
dc202nw on 10/22/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Before I bought my C230 Kompressor, I looked at other entry luxury vehicles. I found this car was the best entry level luxury vehicle at it's price point. I would honestly rate the C230 Kompressor with high marks even if it didn't have the MB markings on the car. I didn't want to drop a mini-fortune (for me) on a CLK or E-series. So, I bought the C class and I have been very happy. I initally thought this would be the first and last Mercedes Benz I would purchase, but now I'm considering a CLK or E class for my future car. I've fallen in love with Mercedes. It's an entry level MB, but it has many more bells and whistles than others cars in it's price range.

Amazing value.

4.3
Greg C on 10/16/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I needed a car that could get me to work in bumper-to-bumper traffic, and also handle periodic days at the race track. I cross-shopped the Audi S4 and the BMW M3. It was a close call, but I have no regrets picking the C32. Very, very fast, but not very flashy. Good MB quality and reliability.

Fun to drive but low reliability

2.8
Andrew Lam on 06/26/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

For the last four years, this car was under warranty work for not less than ten times. The problem includes suspension, engine oil leaks, BAS and ESP lights on, engine back fire and requires new oxygen sensors . I would strongly advise potential buyers to purchase extended warranty before similar problems happen after the warranty expires.

I love my C230K, perfect for a 1st car.

4.1
Suzanne on 06/18/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought a 2002 certified pre-owned C230K coupe and I have had no problems with it at all! It has new brakes and the tread on the tires is great. The leather seats look brand new, like no one has ever even sat on them! I do make frequent trips to Virginia, about 300 miles away, and I only use a half tank of gas to get there, so it's very fuel efficient. I have driven other Mercedes in the past,2002 M-class and a 2006 C280, as well as BMWs (Z3 and X5), and let me tell you, this is not a car to scoff at! It has a very nice ride. The lack of a CD player isn't a problem for me. I just use my Ipod car adapter, perfect!

Practical and Fun

4.6
Jane in Laguna on 06/07/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I was waiting to retire to buy a car that is fun to run around in, but also safe. Then I realized that it was dumb to drive a stodgy old car while I still have to commute. Why not get that new car and enjoy it now? So I picked the C230 Komp and never looked back. It has plenty of cargo space with the back seat down, is very maneuverable - a plus on the freeway - and fits my 6'7" husband comfortably with the seat adjusted. In short, it is a nice mix of function and fun.

Best Looking Wagon

4.5
NC Chris on 05/27/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Purchased used for $20K with 22K miles. Has Command system with Nav & Cell phone. Probably best looking wagon on the road. Firm but compliant ride. Handles well and stops on a dime. Averaging about 20 mpg in mixed driving. No squeaks or rattles. Very good build quality although some interior trim pieces could have been of better material. Command system a bit complex but not bad after you become familiar with it. Steering is a bit heavy a slow speeds.

Muscle car in Mercedes Clothing

4.8
Johnec on 04/07/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I heard so much about this car that I had to test drive it, 24 hours later I owned it! With a friends performance computer stuck to the window I pulled a 0-60 4.7 seconds and a 1/4 mile a little over 13. This car is grace and elegance inside and out (heck.. it's a Mercedes, what would you expect?) But underneath the hood and behind the tires beats the love-child of a Porsche or a Corvette. This car is a monster! Forget all the reviews find one and go drive it... but preferably at a dealership, I am afraid a private owner might cry while you push the throttle and his Z rated tires light up like the 4th of July.

Rock Solid with Slick Design

4.6
jmatheson on 04/02/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The exterior design and the Mercedes brand are what first drew my attention. This is an aggressive, muscular wedge of a car with thoughtful Mercedes design cues throughout. I've loved the safety features and it's a blast to drive. I expect this car to last me a while. I chose the brilliant silver exterior with black leather interior. Although the smallest Mercedes, it has all the looks of the bigger Benz. Just a few complaints. Lack of a CD player is astonishing in this day and age. Lots of brake dust on front rotors. Front cupholder is a little overwrought. But, I'm picking at details. This car has class and character. I get more comments about this car than any other I've driven.

Love it!! Love it!!

4.4
Matt on 03/02/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

I shopped around looking for a nice-looking, fuel efficient, powerful vehicle. Checked out Infinity, Mazda, Lexus and MB. This car has it all and won hands down. I can load up 6 sets of golf clubs, a dog, 2 kids. Plus this sucker is fun to drive. The craftsmanship is somewhat on the chincy side, but this puppy hums. Wish it had an I-pod hookup (but this is an '02). Test drive one, you won't regret it!

Just Right !

4.5
Mark on 02/22/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I spent many months trying to find a fuel-efficient, 2-door sports coupe, with lots of power and room for 2 or 3 ice hockey bags. The C230 Komp was, and still is, the hands-down winner. I've carried mountain bikes, built-in ovens, televisions, and hockey and lacrosse bags in this little gem. The versatility, fun-factor, and sporty appearance of this car are hard to find in any other car.

Great car given bum rap by bad dealers

4.5
Joe on 02/19/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a fantastic car that is severely underrated because the MB dealer network is HORRIBLE. Stupid problems take 5 trips to be resolved. The two happiest days of my MB ownernhip were the day I drove it home and the day my warranty expired. Take it to an outside mechanic and you'll realize that these cars really are still built well. I only had a few very minor complaints with the car that (like I said) took multiple trips (an average of 5 each, really!) to resolve. I had the same number of issues with our 2 Hondas. The only difference was the way those issues were handled. This is great news for used buyers. Scoop up a well-loved example of this car!

Betzy

5
bob on 12/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Best car I have owned and almost fun as a 356. Gas mileage 24 to 26 local, 29 to 31 interstate. Very neutral handling. Have had a couple electrical problem but it just gave a warning on the display and I had them fixed. Vision in reverse a little confusing caused by the glass between the tail lights. The 2.3 liter Kompressor is the most powerful and torquie four banger I have driven. Comfortable on trips. Got the glass roof but it started making noise. Dealer fixed the noise but wish I got one without glass roof. Love it.

Sexy Little Money Pit

4.1
Virginia Donkey on 12/02/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

I purchased my 2002 C230K in May of 05 as a certified pre-owned, so it came with an extended warranty as part of the deal. The car has been back to the dealer 5x since May.2 of the visits was just small stuff.1 visit was for the radio not working when you turn on the rear deforst. Dealer replaced back window, all is well. 2 visits were for the A/C system. Dealer can't find the leak, but it does.Maybe I need a new dealer!. This car performs very well and is bigger on the inside than it seems. I have yet to find another car that has the same amenities that performs as well and gets the same gas mileage.Buy the extended warranty, you will need it.This is a car that you want to love but can't.

My car

4.9
chesapeakegirl77 on 09/04/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love it. The car handles like a first class car, it has pick up, and it looks good. It's a Mercedes Benz, what more do you need to say? When you're driving the car it will perform as you ask it to. It doesn't drive you. There's even nice trunk room and a spare that includes an alloy rim to match the others, not some metal piece of junk. Good gas mileage and comfortable seats for long drives that dont make you ache.

Vastly overrated

2.8
mbnot4me on 07/25/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

Having operated a C320 for three years, I now see why MB has become an “average” car in the ratings. It has been one small thing after another, and a couple not so small. After spending $750 for four new tires that did not solve a constant vibration, someone cared enough to see what was actually wrong and found out the car had a warped drive shaft at 18,000 miles. Of course, nothing was said about the tires. This is my fourth and last one (unless my wife changes my mind).

Highly Disappointed

1.9
Claudia Valle on 07/20/2005

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

I would not recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a reliable automobile. This car has lost more interior pieces than I have been able to keep up with. The electrical components of this car leaves a lot to be desired. I had to replace the alternator at 52,000 miles - the first time in my lifetime as a car owner that I have had to change an alternator this soon. This vehicle has really tarnished my image of the Mercedes Benz brand. When you pay this much for a small sedan, you expect reliability, quality, and decent peace of mind. Wish I would have opted for the Lexus instead.

Heck of a Mercedes

4.8
ChuckA on 07/12/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had 2 BMWs in the past, and I find that the MB is more comfortable and rides nicer. It will not handle as well as a BMW, but you get comfort and style in place of handling in hard corners. I enjoy this car greatly and love the way people look at me while I drive.

Awesome MPG

4.5
David on 06/26/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Today I was was getting 41 MPG on the highway and the trip was about 40 miles. The car is fun to drive and I don't feel too guilty when I know that I am going to get 400 miles per tank. The seats are supportive when going through sharp corners. Automatic wipers are very nice option. Panaramic sunroof works well. Cons: Wish I had a digital led for the climate control. The bass in the stereo should be stronger.

Great Used Car Value

4.1
Tom Steele on 06/16/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

We picked up an '02 in April of '05 with less than 25K miles on it. We had looked at a newer C240 wagon, but found the power a little lacking compared to the 320. I think the C-class looks better in the wagon configuration than the sedan. MB discontinued the 320 wagon for '05, but continued with the 240 wagon.

C240 is a classic understated sedan

1.4
K on 06/16/2005

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

I bought mine new in July, 2002. Generally, with over 16,000 miles on it, my C240 has performed well, especially on long drives, where it is really in its element. The one thing I do not like is there is very weak pickup on it, which is dangerous if you need to merge or drive into traffic from a standing idle, especially for a U-turn across multiple lanes. Otherwise, the quality and design of the car, and its solid performance makes it an operational dream pleasant to behold. Mine was manufactured in Stuttgart.

48000 mile critique

4
DDCDDS on 06/11/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

This is my second MB, and I leased it new. It was fairly bulletproof for 3yrs, but has had lots of problems in the last year. Most of the problems are associated with electronic systems, the key, one touch sunroof closure, etc. A great car in many ways, but beginning to be an aggravation, so I'm glad it's leased. Dealer service has been exceptional--always a loaner- and a great track record in dealing with problems beyond their control.

New but Used

5
Kenw on 05/28/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased this car about six months ago and it had 35,000 miles on it. I had no intention of buying a Mercedes but when I drove it I fell in love. So far it hasn't let me down. It has been flawless and I absolutely love driving it. If you aren't certain you want to buy one, don't drive one. It will suck you in! I worry about the long term reliability when the warranty runs out. I understand if anything does go wrong it is very expensive to fix.

Fun, Fun, Fun!!

4.6
karencpnp on 05/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had this car since 11/02, after waiting 4 months on order. Only regret - not getting a 6-speed - but I drive in too much rush-hour traffic for that. The car is fast, corners like a dream, and goes through Z-rated tires like mad. Integrated phone can't be beat - added on after purchase. Blind spots are easily adjusted for by turning mirrors out to the far side, which takes getting used to, but I no longer need to swing my head back & forth. Has been back to the dealer quite a bit for struts, suddenly dead battery, and electrical errors. I will keep it long after it's paid for!

Great Car

4.9
Steven Schwartz on 05/17/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Have owned this car over three years. It still turns heads. Great acceleration and mileage. Comfortable. Well built. Had a few minor problems, fixed by dealer on first visit. A/C controls could use an updating to a simpler system.

Always in repair

2.9
c230 on 05/07/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

In three years had the car in for 15 repairs and it's going in again. Fun to drive, and gets lots of comments. Not worth it though with all the problems. Will probably never buy another Mercedes. Have heard of quality issues with higher end models as well.

Wonderful Q Ship

4.9
C32 go on 02/08/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My 2002 Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG is a wonderfully smooth and powerful car. To the uninitiated, it appears like any other C-class sedan, but those in the know understand the AMG badge. It is roomy enough to have two car seats in the back, yet tidy enough to park easily. Though not as single-minded as an M3, it is a lovely alternative to those who need 4-doors.

C240 is nice, not stellar

3.9
Mr. RDV on 02/07/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Got my C240 to use mostly for commuting on So Cal freeways to work. Love its quietness, build quality, ride quality. Performance is tepid with the 2.7L V6. Wish I had bought the 3.2L V6 but cost was $5k more. Mileage is not a good as I thought it would be - freeway is okay - 29MPG, but city is more like 20MPG and combined is usually 24-25MPG. My friend's E320 gets same mileage and is bigger. Problems included lower front roll bar links replaced, crankshaft balancer replaced and transmission control module. STRONGLY urge you to buy extended warranty - cost of these three was over $2k in repairs (all covered by EXTENDED warranty that cost me $1k at time of purchase).

Good effort for new model, recommend

4.3
mike in LA on 02/06/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I like my car, having owned it longer than many cars in the past. I have improved HP through new supercharger pulley, put AMG wheels and 17" tires in place of the silly Michelins, but otherwise, it was well designed out of the box. It's fun to drive, the automatic transimission works well, and manual mode is useful. I like the nav system, and generally most everything works as advertised. I know resale isn't great, but there is nothing Mercedes can do about that. Resale comes from perception. But my first car was a VW Corrado, and this car is the closest thing to an upscale Corrado anyone has ever made. Would love to see AWD as an option.

Bitten by the "Benz Bug"

4.5
yoonstuff on 12/11/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

My 2002 Mercedes-Benz C230 Sports Coupe is fun to drive. It has great pick up and it gets great gas mileage on long highway trips. It is a very good looking car with a lot of get up and go. The car looks like it has no room until you open the trunk, lay down the seats and load it up.

Mercedes C230 Hatchback

4.9
Mike in California on 12/09/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my 2002 Mercedes-Benz C230 with 11,000 miles on it and have put 20,000 on it already. It is an awesome car. Its fast, fun to drive, and I have never been treated better at a car delaership. Services on the car has been free because of its warranty. I see no reason to go back to Acura or Honda. This car beats front wheel drive cars and is a truly safe vehicle on the road. It has lots of automation to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. This is the best car that I have ever owned!

Big Name, Little Performance!

2.4
BlueSuedeJay on 11/14/2004

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 2

I have had my 2002 Mercedes-Benz C230 Coupe for 2 1/2 years, after only one year the gas tank leaked in my garage, and my car needed to be towed out. At 9,500 miles they had to repack the wheel bearings and tighten sunroof. Now with 21,000 miles they need to be replaced again the sunrrof squeaks. My car makes a horrible sound until it warms up, everytime you start it. The dealership service manager said that this is normal for this model. It sounds like a diesel, or a 12 year old car. The supercharger lacks performance and consistency in its output (six speed). The cloth seats stain if any water touches them. I traded up from a 1997 Ford Mustang GT. In every aspect of performance, the Mustang was better. This is a horrible car hiding under a Mercedes Benz Logo. I will never own another Mercedes again.

Average

4.3
Dave Kim on 10/31/2004

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Good power. Good pickup. Great on the freeway. Very sporty looking and comfortable. May be too many unecessary features. However, car vibrates at 40 miles an hour. The dealer could not find any problems.

Practical Total Performance

4.9
Porsche Owner on 10/29/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Keeps getting better with age! Awesome to drive for long periods - no fatigue due to excellent seats and suspension calibration for high speed driving. Acceleration is better than advertised - M3s beware!! And the brakes are eye popping. Not to say this vehicle is not without shortcomings, but the shortcomings are relatively minor.

Even better than my 1982 240D(220K)!

4.9
a. macree on 10/10/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Dead solid perfect automobile. Five- speed auto "bat" R/L instant downshift- upshift. Man, my brake-pads are gonna last 50K mi. at this rate. Getting consistently 20-21mpg in-town, or with the occasional Houston trip, upwards of 26mpg. Only two problems in 32 mos.(Both warranty--no cost): 1. Replacement horn. 2. New left front turn-signal lamp.

Honda Civic with a different logo

3.4
djyohimbe on 09/22/2004

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

Buzz, rattle, clank beep beep "random fault code" clank rattle beep beep creeeeek

Nice little taste of Luxury

4.9
Shirl on 09/08/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The car is delightful to drive, fast, handles nice, etc. Car looks better coming, than going! Love the ability to make seat position really high for us short folks. Visibility is good, front seats are very comfortable. Lots of room in back seat area. Got great mileage at 60 MPH on long trip, averaged 35-38 MPG. Engine is quiet, ride is great. Dealer recommends the highest grade gas, but I've used the cheaper and it works fine.. no pings, appears to have same pick-up, etc. Love the sunroof, although have had problems with rattles and sticking. Overall though, I love this car!

Another jewl from Stuttgart

4.8
BMW Slayer on 08/20/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Hands down the best car I've ever owned. Solid build quality and breath taking performance. The acceleration and tight handling allow you to jump in and out of traffic with ease. The cabin is comfortable and functional, though it could do with some more usable storage up front. The only unscheduled maintenance has bee a recurring problem with the lighting system causing it to burn out bulbs about every six months. Fortunatly the vehicle has auxillary lamps that function in place of the main ones when they fail, so the car remians safe to drive until it can be serviced.

first mercedes

5
galen on 08/03/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the first Mercedes that I have owned. The quility is out standing and I plan to buy only Mercedes priduct from now on!!!

Not worth it, Just buy a Honda.

3.9
AWS on 06/19/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

The electrical system in this car is sad. It has been in for service 8 times in 2 years. This includes 4 fan motors for AC, new control panel for AC,computer control panel x2, the dashboard display and 2 alternators. The door handle fell off and the glove box broke probably from the numerous times the dashboard was removed. Having driven a minivan (96000 miles), and 2 GM conversions vans-the last for 8 years and 95,000 miles I thought I would upgrade to a quality vehicle. Sadly, I was disappointed. I was planning on giving this car to my teenage daughter because of the safety features and her deep love for the handling, but it is simply too unreliable.

Lemon or Orange

1.8
Alinago on 05/18/2004

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I have never, in my life, had a car as bad as this Benz....for over 3 yrs of ownership, my car has been in the "shop" more than I've driven it. As soon as it's fixed with one problem, 2 days later it has another. I've givin it plenty of chances...25 strikes, your OUT. So,the only option now is to say good buy to it forever.!

my german dodge

3.6
murrrcds on 05/14/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

This pieceof crap has been in for service 17 times in 25 months. A hoot to drive but the build quality and component parts are just rock bottom. The tuetonic elves have much to learn. This week it was in for 2 days because the parking brake tolerance was so small that as the weather warmed the brakes appied themselves. New rotors and disc were required. All under warrenty mind you but still. I don't want to know the entire service department my name.

Electrical Trouble never goes away

3
Annabell on 05/14/2004

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

Have put 18,000 miles on this car. It has been in the shop over 14 times in the first 6 months. Everything from the headrest motor to the fuel pump to the crankshaft has been replaced. Car is very slow on the start. Don't think of jumping out into traffic!

American built cars are far short.

5
car tec on 05/05/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great upgrade from the american built car. Longjevity is the key word.. price is second. performance is best recognized in adverse driving conditions...

Black Beauty

4.6
jacenglish on 05/04/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I love this car and it has given me a little taste of the good life. I now have been bitten by the Benz bug.

MB Does it again!

5
OKBenzo on 05/03/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my third Benzo, and will certainly not be my last! I have had the most pleasant experiences of my life since becoming a Benz owner, now 5 years ago. The customer service (when you need it) is impeccable, the design, reliability and safety of these cars is second to none. I have owned Volvos, BMWs, Lexs, Mazda (Although the RX8 is SICK!, MUST have one of those soon!)and drove the X series Jag (sad!), but Benz has my heart and my loyalty as a life-long customer! It's not just the car either, the MB Dealership in OKC is a class act, Superior Professionals that take care of their customers!!!

Fun on the road at last!

4.9
Reuben on 05/02/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After years of the "family" card, I decided to purchase this beast of the road. I havent been disappointed in one thing as of yet. It is a "good day" car for me, It has seen rain maybe once so the milage is pretty low after 2 years (9K). It is actually quite comfortable on long trips and looks great!

Love this car

5
artadvice on 04/28/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love everything about this car except the heater/air..it is so noisy and takes a long time to kick in. Other than that, it's been a great car, zero problems in 55,000 miles.

GREAT CAR

4.9
jon6558 on 04/23/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a great car, I have had BMW, VW, Acura and the feel of this car is 2nd to none. It just feels good to drive it. I have only 1 complaint: The brakes on this car are out of control squeaky. It's unreal... I blame this problem more on the local Mercedes dealer than anyone else. They have refused several times to address this issue under warranty. They just say it has 25k on it, it needs new brakes. It clearly does not need brakes, they are 80% still. So like with any other car, you vehicle is only as good as the local dealer (Kansas City).

2002 320C Review

4.3
Jeannie19 on 03/31/2004

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my second 2002 C Class. I bought a 2002 230C and traded it in 18 months later for the 320C. I enjoy driving the car and like the feel of the larger engine. I had a lot of lights blow out in my 230 and have not had that problem in the 320.

myreview

4.6
TomBlairli on 03/30/2004

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

At 6'3" tall, my biggest problem is with legroom, my VW golf had more, I'm a little cramped on longer trips. Ride, handling are impeccable. Watch that speedometer, you can easily be going 20 mph faster than you realize.

My Perfect 10

4.9
cybergypsy on 03/08/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Don't let these reviews scare yo away from this car... I had yes 34 cars in the last 3 years and I love this car much better then the BMW which i had 4 of. This car rocks...

Better than BMW

5
Chitapita on 03/02/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car, fun to drive. I had two 3- series BMW's before this car and this is by far a superior vehicle. I think that it is more compatable with a 5- series BMW (and at a 3-series price). I will buy a Mercedes again and am encouraging a family member to trade a Jaguar in for an s-class.

Where's your C240 Manufactured??

4.9
Wheres your C240 fm? on 02/28/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I see a distinct divide in the reviews for the C240 - and I can tell you why. The 2002 C240s were made in both Germany and in Brazil. I was alarmed one day when a friend showed me the plate in the car stating it was manufactued in Brazil. He was having a lot of problems with the vehicle. I couldn't understand why, because I have the same car and he bought his on my recommendation. I checked my car and it indeed was manufactured in Germany. If you are considering this car, make sure you buy one made in Germany, not Brazil!!

From VA to IL

4
from VA to IL on 02/20/2004

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

This car has been by far the most fun yet most complicated car I've ever owned. When people see it I usually hear things like: wow! Mercedes. If they only knew the depreciation I've taken on it, Hyundais would be Maybachs per comparison. Based on its current value it is like a yugo made by MB. As reliable as the wheather man (but hey I always get a mercedes benz loaner so who cares) when it works it is a jewel, controls easy to reach but seat comfort is relegated to passengers rather than driver. Overrall it is okay, it looks agressive so it appears fast. Tires R-bad but so- R our other car's.

Love this Car!

5
mtujague on 02/02/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I am a case manager so I travel a lot. I love this car and don't know if I will ever let it go. It is fun to drive and handles like a true mercedes.

Little monster

4.1
AO on 01/31/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Awesome performance! This car is a "sleeper". It looks like run of the mill C-class sedan but it is real fun to watch the astonished faces of the drivers of Mustangs, BMWs and such, including kids in tricked out Honda Civics, when it rockets off the traffic light.

Lot's of fun

4.6
jcv on 01/15/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I don't know how Mercedes makes and sells these cars for so little, this thing is great. Solid MB build, excellent performance and reliability, what you'd expect from a Mercedes Benz

MB Wagon

4.8
anguslost on 01/12/2004

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had very little trouble with this automobile. I have found the climate controls to be unnecessarily confusing. What little problems I have had have been due to electrical difficulties. It is a fun, responsive car to drive and does not tire one out on trips. I would certainly look at another one, when I decide to trade cars

Great Car...and its only my first

4.8
Berat3k on 12/26/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

great speed and performance. I like the way it handles and the way you can zip around turns. The only problems i have had with it is that is hard to see your blind spots and look behind you went parking or anything like that. Exterior has an awesome look and the interior is cool awesome!!

Piece of junk

2.9
ctpan on 12/26/2003

Performance: 1 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

Bought new and within the first week noticed a crack in the steering wheel. Dealer replaced. Then the brake light went out. Replaced. Then the license light went out. Remote refuses to work at times. About 3 months in, tried to back the car out on a winter day and as soon as I engaged reverse, the engine died. Should have been a sign along with the weird engine noises. Then at 18000 miles, a few weeks over a year old, the engine stalls on the highway. A plastic piece on the under side of the rear passenger door is also loose. The c240 is a complete waste of time and money. Stay away!

Not Impressed

3.1
Underwhelmed on 12/24/2003

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

I bought this car as a present to myself. Who knew I would be so underwhelmed by the experience. Too many 'minor' repairs in the first few months (purge valve, wind noise because stuff around door jam not secure, and rear sun shade worked only when it wanted to). These things were fixed and now I'm experiencing other prblems! The back of the passenger seat fell off, the driver side door handle broke off (no unusual use!!!), and the gear shift moves when you change gears. And don't get me started about the squeaking brakes. UGH!!!!

C320 Wagon

4.6
FAH on 12/24/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car has been a nice treat to drive and own. It pampers and cossets you with all it's gadgetry and convenience features. Drop your foot on the gas and the propulsion is downright amazing, if ESP does not intrude on your launch. The back seat has been a sore spot among friends - smaller than a 300TE by quite a bit. The engine seems more responsive than in our CLK 320, although it's the same engine.

Perfect Ride

4.5
kst823 on 12/24/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We bought the car used from a MB Dealer in Boston, MA. After I drove the BMW 325i & 330i, I decided that comfort style & quiteness make-up for the less power. We love it.

Good looking, horrendous quality

3.4
KenS on 12/23/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Quick, responsive, fun to drive fast or slow. Lots of wow factor for passengers (voice command, navigation). Integrated phone is very handy. Great dealership and service, too bad I am there all the time. What have I had replaced in the past year? Keys (5 times), floor mats, purge valve, a/c controls, voice command (3 times), rear seat belts, drive train shudders, pneumatic seat pump, phone, shifter trim, washer/turn signal stalk (3 times), washer pump (4 times), cd changer, driver seat frame, seat memory, mildew, outside mirror malfunction.

Best Quality and Looks of any compact.

4.8
mcflemming on 11/23/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After more than two years it is still exhilirating to get behind the wheel of this vehicle. Quality, look and respect are tops in its class. Although some competitors may offer more features and higher rated horsepower - I've had no regrets. C- 240 has more than enough acceleration and speed. Now that I have a toddler its a bit cramped with the baby seat, diaper bag and stroller though. I would buy again, but go for E class or a minivan/suv if you're starting a family.

Disappointed

4
HB1187 on 11/21/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 2

We purchased this car for my wife to drive, hoping for fun luxury with MB quality. The car looks great and is fun to drive, but we have been very disappointed in quality. It is been in the shop several times and we have already replaced the instrument panel, alternator, and two tires. I bought a Ford Explorer one week before and I have had no problems. Overall, I have had more problems with this MB than any car I have ever owned.

2002 C230 six speed C7 C5

4.8
mayday51000 on 11/16/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very comforatble and economical car to drive. Very quiet and economical with the six speed transmission. Vehicle requires four snow tires in winter/snow belt climates

Quality issues

3
ShadowNeko on 11/14/2003

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I have a 2002 C230K for around 1.5 years. It has been in services for number of times: . 5 times for SRS light. . 2 times for ESP and BAS lights. . 2 times replacement for CD-changer. . 1 time malfunction front-end stabilizer bar. . 1 time broken instrument button. . 1 time loosen weather strip. . 1 time replace all rusty wheels' fasteners. . 1 time broken speaker mesh cover. . In addition, a very rust break caliper but refused to be replaced.

OK CAR

4.5
VLADIMIR THEODOROF on 11/07/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

IS A HIGH QUALITY COMPONENTS CAR CHEAPLY BUILT. I WOULD OPT FOR 3.2L ENGINE ANY DAY (UNFORTUNATELY WAS NOT AVAILABLE IN 2002)

A Chrysler in MB clothes

3.6
irlfan72 on 10/30/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

Don't fool yourself that MB quality is great.Car has 16,300 mi and been in for;supercharger,hatch,foglight,cupholde r,hatch repaint. It starts rough at times and I'm concerned it's another repair waiting to happen. Thankfully, it's all under warranty. Upon recent B service at MB of Hagerstown, rims came back scratched. I wouldn't expect that of your local garage, let alone an award winning MB service department! They promised they'd be "touched up" next service. Despite its faults, a blast to drive. Overtaking is easy and onramp/offramp driving loads of fun. However, we will be getting rid of ours prior to the warranty expiring for fear it will be a burden.

Solid Performance

4.8
TD199 on 10/27/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Purchased a 2002 C320 Wagon off of Ebay. The car has a solid; heavy ride with great performance. Sports Car performance with sedan ride is the best way to describe. Bose Sound is awesome along with being a very tight, quiet automobile.

C230 Coupe

4.9
mayday510 on 10/24/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Some minor problems initially (oil leak and rattles)that were corrected by the dealer within the first 7K miles. I've got 27K miles on it now and the car has been flawless. I ordered this car and have been driving it daily since Nov 2001. Great in the snow as long as you have four snow tires mounted.

It's a love/hate thing

4.4
Love it/Hate it on 10/24/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought this car b/c I love hatchbacks and Mercedes. I love the drive, feel and performance of this car. BUT, I have had problems similar to other owners: tape deck replaced, fuel pump/tank replaced, front differential replaced, squeaky sunroof. The service is excellent but that's I'd prefer to not know my service rep on a first name basis. I will definitly buy another MB, but will consider turning this one in at the end of the warranty.

DON'T TRADE-IN

4.8
J & B POWELL on 10/22/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

OURS NEEDS CHANGED SO WE WERE TRADING IT IN FOR THE MERCEDES SUV. WE HAD ALL THE UPGRADES (LEATHER) IN, WHEN WE WENT TO TRADE IT IN THEY ONLY WANTED TO GIVE US$18,000 AND ONLY 7000 MILES ON IT. THEY DEPRECIATED IT HALF WHAT IT COSTS. NEEDLESS TO SAY WE STILL HAVE IT, UNFORTUNATELY A CAR WE LOVED, NOW WE FEEL STUCK WITH. ON TOP OF THAT THE MERCEDES DEALERSHIP WE TOOK IT TOO WAS EMABARASSED TO HAVE THESE CARS ON THE LOT. SAID IT WAS A MISTAKE MERCEDES MADE BY PRODUCING THIS MODEL.

i geess i got one of the good ones

3.8
robsmx-5 on 10/20/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

not alot of people are happy with the c230. the only reason i purchesed mine is because the dealer drop it $6500.00.m-b gave the dealer $4k because of slow sales.discounted it another $2500 , took it. have 10,000 miles on mine and have had no trouble with it other than having to replace the sun shades.it gets 33 mpg on the hwy.i dont care for the stiff ride or the way the auto shifts. and dont even try to put xm radio with the m-b radio.cd is about $900 extra if the dealer puts it in, and no other cd changer will work with the bose system. i would not recomend this car as many of the coupes are having too many problems.

Smooth and sporty

4.8
PhilK on 10/13/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

A great vehicle in all aspects. Silky V6 engine provides good acceleration and excellent passing power, especially with the TouchShift transmission. Sporty styling almost makes you forget it's a sedan, back seat is good for two people with decent leg room. Trunk swollows 2 or 3 regular size suitcases but not much more.

Buy one if you can find one.

4.9
C230K-6spd on 09/30/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

If you enjoy driving a pure sports car but don't want to sacrifice passenger space, this car is perfect for you. The 6spd manual tranny provides peak power at any speed. It corners like a dream. The supercharger sounds sweet. Sometimes I put the window down just so I can hear it getting on the highway. Desite its small appearance, it fits two 6' tall adults comfortably in the backseat. After two years, $0 repair/maintenance cost. It's all covered by Daimler/Chrysler!

I love my little MB Sportwagon

4.8
Linda Timmerman on 09/24/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

After 3 SUV's--pleasant change! I can pack it as full.Wonderful on gas mileage and handles like a dream on the road..great brakes, Runs powerfully and surpises most people with the pick-up .

our c32

4.1
jhalz on 09/19/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

speedtronic tranny isn't useful for manual shifting - up or down. Kompressor's whine can get pretty annoying if no stereo on. Faster than my blown '95 Carrera. Staggering high end speed. Straight line performnace is the envy of many a sports car. Very compliant ride over bumbs, giving the overall driveability a great compromise between sport and luxury. Handles neatly, although turn in not as crisp as i'd like. very good brakes. very comfortable. very content to cruise around town at 25mph and get great gas mileage or to tear it up on back country roads. keep ESP turned off unless it's wet, out.

J-C230k

4.6
J-C230k on 09/12/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Afterall, it is a Mercedes

I want my money back

3.4
Mustang95 on 09/08/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

What a piece of good looking crap. We are in the process of trying ot get our money back. I have never owned a car with so many problems. Shock problems, electrical problems, broken plastic truck liner, sun roof sticking, rattles, We were looking forward to getting this car and now we look forward to getting rid of it.

I Wanted to Love It......

4
Giovanni Ferrari on 09/02/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

This was my dream car after reading the previews. I really wanted to love it and keep it for a long time. It was a car that I had to "reach" to pay for but I thought it would be worth it. Boy was I wrong! First the good. The car is fabulous to look at and drive. It handles very well for the level of comfort it provides. The steering could be more communicative like BMW's but overall it was a pleasure to drive. Unfortunately it has had way too many problems. It has been at the shop too many times. I've sold it recently, because I couldn't stand it any longer.

excellent car

4.8
billpa on 08/13/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

this is a great car. looks mild, but step on the gas and this baby takes off. At first it seemed like too much power until you get used to it

vibration

4.5
herb on 08/10/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

my 2002 c230 coupe is comfortable,[to sit in] fast and cool. quiet it is not. but the one thing i find unacceptable is the vibration that i feel from 35-40 mph to 60-65 mh. i feel the vibration in the seat, pedals, gear shift, steering wheel. mercedes has told me that it is normal, but ive heard no one else complaining about it. so am i the only one?

You can't go wrong.

4.5
Conradikal on 08/05/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I am a police officer specializing in traffic reconstruction. I have seen many crashes involving all kinds of vehicle makes and model. NOTHING impressed me more than a Mercedes Benz. AMG elevated Mercedes to a higher level. Not only can an owner enjoy the safety Mercedes offers, AMG provides the horse power other manufacturers strive to achieve. It has four doors. In my opinion for its price range, it is the best value. Owning one truly gives me the best of both worlds. A car that is built like a tank that can run with Porsches and Corvettes. Not that I do, but knowing I can is good enough. It is a wolf in a sheeps cloak.

Fun fun fun~!

4.3
rib123 on 07/25/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Just got my baby C 1 week ago. Man, once I start the car, I don't want to get out. A lot of power for a small car, and the 2.3L eng. makes beauifull sound...

Not A Happy Camper

4.1
terry5940 on 07/18/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

Back three times for a vibration Between 30 & 60 MPH, & dealer can't correct problem, BAS-ESP warning came on twice. First it was the computer second time it was dirty contacts. Phone had to be replaced approx. 3 months after my car was delivered.

it's a Chrysler

3.6
flipside on 07/10/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

repairs so far - differential whine - replaced p Gears; rear seals leaked - replaced; 4 new shocks; OE Micehelin sports dead after 9000 miles; replaced computer; replaced CD; replaced cupholder. Interior squeaks and rattles will drive you nuts. Engine is crudely loud and exhaust note is tinny. Gear shift is notchy. However - handles very well, has good power and gets great gas mileage. My first and likely last MB.

Could have been a contender

4.4
idealrides on 07/09/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I ordered my C32 after having seen only pictures of one from Europe, and after having enjoyed my 1999 C43 so much that I knew this new AMG was going to be the cat's balls. I was a little disappointed, the steering is decent for a Benz, but it has a bit too much understeer out the box. Living in Boston, the car is very uncomfortable on imperfect roads, it just doesn't soak up bumps the way a Benz should. It's also had a big handful of small problems, too many for a Benz in fact.

Great Ride But Fix Pull To Right

4.3
ajay on 07/02/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

CONS - Car pulls to right. Dealer & MB have checked alignment and tires several times and still no fix after a year. Advise if you have similar problem via edmunds.com review or e- mail to [email protected]. Similar sunroof noise problem fixed by dealer by removing roof liner & installing foam sheet and silicon. Brakes spongy & non-linear in feel. PROS - Good looking especially in Paprika with lots of looks from others; fantastic interior ambience with panorama roof & top quality leather ; excellent interior materials, fit & finish. Both better than A4 or X-Type. GENERAL - Ride is firm. OK if you are sporty driver, not if more comfort oriented.

Mercedes 320

5
Fineman on 06/26/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Well designed and confortable to drive. Good handling with smooth highway ride. Excellent climate control system. Reasonably gutsy engine.

By and large, a great car

4.6
ACSiliconValley on 06/03/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

This is a great car and a lot of fun to drive. Excellent handling, very solid feel, wide doors, surprisingly spacious. Also very good the controls built into the steering wheels. The only real down side so far is that the sunroof is very squeaky; I hope the dealer can fix it at the first service.

sick of Mercedes

1.8
cheapBenz on 05/28/2003

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

In shop for warranty work @ 7000, 12000, 17000 miles and heading back @ 28000 miles. Factory tires wore out at 22000. Sunshade and sunroof problems. Noisy brakes. No power brakes upon cranking. Items replaced so far: front sun visors, wipers, steering wheel switches, vent grille, front & rear sunshade, cd player. I have a BMW 325 with 33000 miles, tires still in great shape, NO PROBLEMS EVER! When I asked dealer why tires were wearing so fast and so irregular, they stated this car will just do that! Would have traded long ago but obviously dealers know this is a CHEAP MADE car. Resale/ trade value is horrible.

C-Coupe

4.6
C-Couper on 05/26/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Excellent vehicle--great value for a MB! It's fun to drive, smooth riding, and fuel efficient. The service plan is top-notch--everything from oil changes, wiper blades, tire rotations/balances, belts, car washes, etc is included. I would definitely recommend the C230 Kompressor to anyone who wants to get into a Benz for ~30K...

This is amazing......

4.9
Elliott on 05/21/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Wow, I NEVER would have thought I would be rolling in a Benz in high school! But hey hey, look at me now! This car is indiscribable, for 17k (yep, that's right!) this thing is like unbelievable. I went shopping with my parents in Jacksonville, FL for my first car. I had my heart set on a 02 or 03 Lexus ES. Well, we decided to look over at the Benz dealer right next to the Lexus dealership and just my look, I found a black Benz C240 sedan just waiting for me. I was in love! I found the car was a left over 02 demo with 10k miles on it. So far the car is the best ever and it sure beats the normal Civic or Corolla by a long shot!

Pleased, but not ecstatic.

4.3
aftp on 05/20/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Overall this has been the car I expected. Mercedes level design and support. Several problems including an oil leak have landed mine in the shop several times. Several electrical problems also (headlight assembly, multiple bulbs, window motor).

Poor quality

3.4
teener on 05/15/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I purchased this car for my daughter to take to college. The intention was to get her a sporty fun car that would have the vaulted Mercedes quality and safety. I was convinced that Mercedes would not fall victum to the dreaded first production year quality issues tha other brands have been plagued by. Unfortunately the car has been a resounding disapointment. In the shop for repairs 7 times in 15 months is rediculous. The fact that the car can not be trusted has forced me to look into replacing it. This is not a car that I would trust with my daughters safety as she travels back and forth to college. I would not recomend this car to anyone.

Not designed for rear seat passengers

3.9
Amy Nicora on 05/14/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased this vehicle after being involved in an SUV rollover accident. I purchased the vehicle solely because of the extensive safety features. However, after reading the manual I realized I could be doing more harm than good to my children who sit in the back seat. The manual states that children should not lean against the doors because of the airbages but most children sleep on the raod and they have no where else to rest their heads but on the door. Also, this vehicle has very poor rear leg room for adults as well as children. The rear air conditioner does not produce enough air to cool the rear passangers.

Great Cruiser

4.5
SteveYang on 05/12/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Had more comfort features than the 3 series even has memory settings for the passenger seat. Suprisingly SMOOTHE.... ride for the size of car. All the comparison articles I've read state the same thing. Ample power and handling to get you in and out of trouble.

Edmund's review under value this car

4.6
hugobossmntw on 05/02/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Visibility: 8 Rattles: 10 !! (Not a single rattle) Wind noise: 10 !! (This is more personal) Secondary climate Cntrl: 7 Build Quality : 10 !! (Every single control works on my car, not a signle scratch on the plastics) Cupholders: 6 (awkward a little).

Don't miss this car when you shop

4.8
andkovacs on 04/25/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Since 1991 I had two dodge stealths because of the qualtity, the handling and the winter performance (ah yes). I live in Canada ... Finnaly I saw this Mercedes C230 a couple of month ago. Before I never even thought about buying a Mercedes because of the old 20 years old look. Mercedes didn't change its look since a while. However this car is a beast. All new styling and handling. The quality and desigh of the inside perfect. I am tall and I have enought space too. The radio is not outstanding but it's still a good quality. I don't recommend the soon roof because even the demo cars had problem with. Also the heating fan is a little noicy.

The Best AMG

5
dghdfg on 04/08/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is amazing in performance, luxury, style and safety. I urge you to buy one!

Great Car

4.3
slywun0467 on 03/29/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I love my C230. I've had it since Sept 2001 and it has performed admirably. I put ~20,000 miles on a my car a year (up to 37,000) as of this writing and it's been great. Service and support of the dealership is top notch.

Great Car!

4.8
Andyd987 on 03/17/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I wanted somthing somewhat luxurious, sporty, comfortable and partical. This car fills the requirements almost perfectly. My car is a gourgeous bright red 6-spd with the stereo upgrade, heated seats and handlamp washers as the only options. Even after owning the car for a year and one-half, I get almost as many looks as I did in the C3 Corvette I sold to make room in the garage for the Benz. I get 27 MPG highway and 19 MPG mixed, mostly city. My experience with this car has been trouble free. When my 17 year old every day use VW GTI expires this car will replace it and I am sure will last even longer.

Guide Missile disguised as a Wagon

4.8
PMGURU on 03/13/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Tested the G35, Passat GLX-V6, Volvo S/60, C240, C230K sedan and C320 wagon. Bought a 9 mo old dlr demo for less than Blu Book wholesale (had 10k miles on odo). Immaculate Body & interior. Power aplenty. Refined chassis & powertrain. Car exudes with understated luxury. Is roomy enough for 4 tall adults. Powerful brakes, better handling than sedan, quiet on highway. Extremely confortable on long trips. Had couple of minor issues w/ key release - fixed without questions by dealer. Fuel gauge went zero for 20 minutes. Again fixed by dealer. Road side assistance is impressive...Bub Bye AAA. 26mpg at 95mph. Bottom line. It's a Benz!

Great deal.

4.9
Brabus on 03/07/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The car is built well, with German eginering and the Mercedes desgner looks and performance, this car runs great, it protects your transmission by locking your 1st gear when speeds go past 10 MPH...its built well, no bad comments on this one...

No longer the best or nothing

3.8
fedakj on 03/06/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

This is a fine car, however quality problems are magnified by equaly poor service. Vibration at 33-45mph, mb claims this to be harmonics of the car, otherwords we can not fix it.

C230 Kompressor

4.6
rjwjr on 03/05/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

The only problems to date have involved error messages regarding the traction control/ESP. The dealer claimed to have fixed the problem with a new cable, but they have returned. Beyond that the car is an absolute joy to drive, The torque from the engine is pletiful and the gas mileage (with 4 adults) has been over 32 mpg on the highway.

C 240 in Maryland

4.4
tjkinmd on 02/24/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

My C 240 is a pleasure to drive. I upgraded from a '98 Mazda 626 and it has made my 30-mile commute 10 times more enjoyable. Often driving in heavy traffic, I find comfort in the firm, but cradling seats. On the open highway, this car is responsive enough to quick needs for accelerating into a lane change and very quiet in the cabin. It handles well under the direction of tight steering that gives the car a stable and solid feeling. If you're on the fence between this car and a 325i and luxury is more a priority than performance, this is the car for you.

C230 Hatchback - fun

4.5
nancie on 02/24/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

this car is really fun to drive. It has acceleration when you need it and is easy to manuver in and out of traffic etc. We have three Land Rovers so this is a nice change!

Love it but . . .

4.9
Boricua on 02/21/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My wife and I just bought this car (C- 240) model and simply love it! It's extremely comfortable and drives very quietly. Smaller than the average Mercedes but has big car feel. Highly recommend it! We love the exterior look and the beautiful and easy to use interior features.

C230 Problems problems

3.1
uhBenz on 02/20/2003

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

Poor quality vehicle, not up to Mercedes standard. In the 14 months I've owned it, replace r/f bushing, new sunroof bracket, reset ECU, replaced fuel guage, new transmisson, driver windows sometimes closes, sunroof doesn't open/close all the time. How do u turn the a/c off? It's the same temp. with auto on/off. Steering wheel is squeking now. I would never buy a Benz again..look for Porsche or BMW.

Good Car, Little Problems

4.4
andrewk on 02/17/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Overall this is an excellent car, but it seems to be bothered by small, nagging problems with reliability. Over 7500 miles several small problems (none are close to being critical) have come up, which is a little disappointing. But, compared to the positives (decent power, crisp handling, excellent brakes, solid feel, safety, luxury), the shortcomings (rattles, notchy 1-2 shift) are easy to overlook.

C32 AMG

4.9
peebs on 02/06/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A beast. More horses than a standard Corvette. A neck jerker that roars like a lion and runs like a cheetah. Hate have to replace those tires every 15K, but oh well.

6 Month Checkup From Benz Owner

4.4
Benz Owner on 01/31/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

This overall still a great car, and I still have yet to see another on the road. I have dusted off just about everything you can think of that might pull up to a stop light too. [I even have the speeding tickets to prove it] The car does lag a bit froma stop before the power kicks in, but when it does. Whoa!!!! I do have to say that the car has been in for service more than I am comfortable with. I dread owning it after the warranty period. Mercedes needs to take their build quality reputation a bit more seriously. I still say "if you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up." - Ferris Bueller

Awesome car

5
underwhirled on 01/21/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I recently purchased this car, and have loved every minute of my driving time since!

Good Ride

4.6
ART on 01/21/2003

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Still new to the ride..about 2500 miles. My second Benz. So far fuel consumption excellent. 4 people and luggage, 300 miles RT...31 MPG. Power and six speed excellent. Fit and finish awesome.

Once you go MB, you won't go back

4.8
jbuck55 on 01/14/2003

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I was ordered my C240 and waited 5 months and it has been so worth it. The color(silver on silver) oozes class and sexiness and I get many compliments on the styling and design. Granted, I would love more horses, but this baby was made to cruise not bruise and it does just that. I would like to see maybe more wheel styles available and also get rid of the useless cassette but all in all I love this car. Will pray NOT to have the problems I have read about but so far so damn good!

Love My Car

4.6
Dina H on 12/27/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased my 2002 C320 Sedan in November 2002. This is my first Mercedes and don't think I'll own anything else. I am impressed with the car's power, handling and styling. I am most impressed with the service department. I receive excellent service that I believe is indicative of Mercedes Benz.

Great car

4.9
AmyS on 12/20/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

To start, I am a Mercedes loyalist. When I was forced to buy a new car, I considered the BMW 3 series, volvo S60, and the Audi A4. I am really glad I chose this car. It's fun to drive, great to ride in, has great handling, performance, etc. Long trips are fun; short trips are fun.

Over Priced Neon

2.9
Dave Proia on 12/20/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 3

Noisey! Sunroof constantly squeaks dealer unable to eliminate. Drivers seat squeaks. This is the noisest car I've owned since my 1980 Citation. Stereo system sub-par. Can't hear rear speakers (mounted in lower door trim) Way over priced

fun time

4.1
dubop on 12/19/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

The 230 has been a fun car, good power to overpass others or, to win merging wars at on ramps. radio (non bose) is fair, installing after-market radio can be a bear! tinting of windows should be done by a REAL pro if not, you will make a trip back to the dealer to replace both the am/fm powered ant and the alarm ant.! "b" piller is poor hard to see others on both sides! back seat is good for small kids front seats are not great if your a larger person. sunroof is big and fun.

Consider Before Buying

3.1
donsturdy on 12/13/2002

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

After 5k car had no power & stalling. Dealer said heads needed to be replaced(2 weeks later had car back). Told to add Tectron every 2k to reduce reoccurance as it could happen again. On way home dash lit up & indicated car needed service immediately. Returned car-found problem was result of damaged part due to replacing heads. Also passenger door lock refused to opperate. It gets better. Dealer told me to add Tectron when car was almost empty then get gas. When I went to fill up, the gas cap cover refused to open. Couldn't go further & had to wait 4 hrs for service van. There is just no confidence left with the auto. Expect to trade in for a new Lexus.

great car

4.9
john graff on 12/11/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've really enjoy the build quality and preformance. Its hard to image a hatch back could get much better. The 230K has many of the nice features from the Smart. Cool

Great Car

4.8
nPlano on 12/03/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased this car in May of 02 and always wanted one ever since I saw them on msn autos. Runs great, gas mileage could be better, the front looks awesome but the rear could look better. The front looks similar to the SL class. Still a thrill to drive and sure do get looks. Afterall, it is a Mercedes and you get a lot more for your money, definitely a smart buy for a sporty car.

Great Car!

4.6
rishi on 12/02/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

The cheapest AMG model, but definetly value for every dollar spent! Although being my first car, it's hard to judge until i drive others.

Love it!

4.1
veronica on 11/26/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

i drove the vehicle for 10 straight months to commute appro. 50 miles each way and it handled everything! it is so comfortable and smooth... difficult to keep you honest on a 65mph speed limit highway because you don't even realize you are going 80. the subtle details are absolutely appreciated... especially the way it lights up when you remotely unlock your doors. i like that they did not add rear-winshield wipers to compromise the design concidering it is not that useful and looks tacky on a small car. another great feature is whole fog light system!! i test drove several cars in it's range and none felt as solid, classy and worthy of the cost... i love it.

Unsuspecting

4.5
Summer on 11/23/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great styling, a blast to drive, super- fast. The 5.0 Mustang or the Corvette sitting beside you at the light has no idea!

Sport Coupe - Excellent

4.8
pharmon on 11/18/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought the second 230C at the dealership, a black bottom spec loss leader. It has been a fantastic car, the best I've ever owned in 25 years of driving. Fast, handles well, great mileage, versatile... everything I learned to expect from a Mercedes. When you buy American, you get a low end car with things tacked on. This has all the components and build quality of a high end car, minus "stuff" (electric seats, leather interior, etc). A great trade off.

2002 C240

4.9
asecks on 11/13/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is fun to drive when you want to be sporty but can be a luxury car at the same time. Roomy enough to fit my entire family but small enough to feel sporty.

C230K

5
JJ Luranc on 11/12/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Residual values on Edmunds.com mis- stated - much too low.

Nice Luxury - Lacking in Sport Dept.

4.8
Jimmy Boy on 11/02/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A nice comfortable car with lots of electronic goodies, however the suspension is a little soft and their is a significant amount of body roll. I drive it on a 40 mile comute, it is very comfortable and safe. Very quiet and cruises nicely at 80. When I hit the backroads it doesn't match a BMW. The car is quick and gets about 27 mpg on my commute. The Kompressor is a nice engine but again doesn't match BMW's inline sixes.The automatic is smooth with a little Kompressor lag if you are driving mildly but you get used to it. The radio isn't the best but with the CD changer it is more that adequate. Made by Alpine. Seats are firm and comfortable.

Ten thousand miles so far...

4.6
Ananda on 10/31/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have a lead foot yet still exceed 22MPG - Daily commuting plus some long trips. Absolutely nothing has broken, rattled, fallen off or otherwise caused concern. It still makes me feel good to see it light-up in welcome whenever I press the remote. I have gotten to tolerate the rear view - the three pointed star helps. Still cannot believe the value for money. One of the best value cars ever.

GREAT CAR! I LOVE IT!

5
bck113 on 10/28/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I just got my new 2003 C240 about a month ago and absolutely love it! I was getting this car for my first car so i needed a car that was going to last me through high school and all of college. Im so glad I got this car, it looks great, performs well, and is extremely high quality. I haven't had any problems yet. Many people love to compare the BMW 325i and the MBZ C240, yet i think they are incomparable. My brother just got a 325xi and they are both awesome cars, just differences in style. If you are thinking about getting this car, you will not be sorry. I love my C240 more and more everyday.

Excellent car, minor glitches

4.5
on 10/16/2002

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

My first MB. Problems: 1. Central air duct broken at delivery - replaced at no cost (warranty). 2. Key receptor dead at 8000 miles - replaced at no cost (warranty). Note: Service arrived on the spot in < 10 minutes! Handled the case superbly. Overall: Rides wonderfully. Seats are great (lateral support + comfort). Steering feel excellent. Brakes very good. Stereo (BUT: NO CASSETTE NEEDED, THANKS!) Very quiet, yet engaging.

Wife's MB

4.9
Robin Jenn on 10/09/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Excellent car overall, but air conditioning fair, could certainly be improved! Little annoying things like drink holder not opening and door seals having to be replaced within the first 3 months that our local MB dealer Hoelm MB quickly took care with very friendly staff at service.I prefer this car over our previous BMW 3 series.

Loads of fun, but at what price?

3.5
Speedmaster on 09/30/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

This car is fun to drive, but a sturdy performance car it's not. Nothing but problems since day one of ownership. First the suspension had to be reinstalled, as the car wasn't level. Next, all of the brakes and tires had to be replaced due to severe vibrations at speed. Then the supercharger had to be replaced due to excessive noise. To top that off, a couple of interior cosmetic items had to be replaced as well. All of this under warranty of course, but the depreciation of this car is outrageous. I guess that's the price you pay.

C200K Elegance

4.5
JMurray on 09/28/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Drives as good as it looks. Never liked a car as much as this. Mercedes really got it right in most areas with this car. Very nice and a joy to drive. Will put Xenon lights and timber laminated steering wheel (aftermarket)will put the icing on the cake.

Needs a New Stereo System

3.9
M Owens on 09/26/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

The car is enjoyable to drive. It responds well to the throttle. Nice size for carrying groceries and making trips to the beach. Controls are fairly easy to use. Good commuter car.

Could have better intial quality

4.1
axion on 09/25/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Had to replace - gas tank (over spill) - Driver side seat belt (clicking noise) Rattling noise from center console.

Fun for the price tag

4.4
yongra on 09/25/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my first MB. I had a great deal that I could not pass up. Now, after about a month. I don't regret it. I love the car. Handles well in corners, performance is above average. The supercharged engine really helps. When I need pick-up, it is there.

Fun to Drive

4.6
C230KFAN on 09/17/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is simply fun to drive. The automatic transmission matches very well the engine characteristic and the manual shift option is just perfect for those mountain roads. With black interior and leather option it looks and feels very high quality. The seats are perfect, the huge glass roof is gorgeous and there are just too many little useful implementation details to list. The list of safety features is just complete matching high end full size cars. However the major difference to my previous new cars is that 9 months later it still totally excites me to drive this car very much like in the first week.

Best Choice

5
SanDiegoC230K on 09/15/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I never associated MB with value, but that's what the C230K gives. It is incredibly fun to drive, and lots of looks from other people as I drive by. The Kompressor growl going up hills is great. The C230K can easily accomodate 4 adults (its bigger inside than it looks). The panoramic sunroof makes an ordinary sunroof look downright inadequate. The C7 wheel package is a steal, and makes the car look even better. Like others, I was considering an Acura RSX hoping to save some bucks. The C230K is worth every penny of the price difference, and more. Drive the two cars and you will know immediately which one you want.

Great car but mine cuts out too!

4.5
Benzilla on 09/15/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Have had car 3 months. Had BMW and Porsche in past. Both had electrical problems. Car has been great to date. Fun to drive and feels safe. Figured perhaps with a Benz, may have better luck with mechanical problems. WRONG! For some unknown reason the car has cut out twice while going down the road @ 45 MPH! (looks like a few other have had the same problem?) Car now going to shop to see what the problem is. I sure hope we don't end up in the same boat as the other 2 German cars!

Benz

4.8
ronfenn on 09/14/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Got my C230 in Jan. love the way it handles, good speed in the mountains.

Mercedes C-240 ? This is Mecedes Quality

3
Going Back To Lexus on 09/14/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Rear window fell out, Dash went out, Alternator went out, head gaskets went out leaking anti freeze into motor, oil pump and sensor went out, front end squeaks, back sunshade broke, seats lost leather color in less than 6K miles, drivers seat broke " back fell off" need I say more? think I have a true Lemon Here. Working with MB to Buy car back however...not sure what they want to do yet however.

Athletic

4.9
Jon H on 09/10/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Can only be described as an athletic car. Durable, fun, quick, handles solid, built like a tank. Manual Transmission is a MUST. Good on gas. Engine sounds nice with sports package. Great wheels. Fantastic interior. Leather is of the best quality. I like everything about it.

MB AMG First Timer

5
Firsttimer on 09/09/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great automobile, the best balance of performance and luxury that I have experienced to date with an emphasis on performance. Outstanding brakes, suspension and drivetrain. Some minor ergonomic/design issues with interior controls such as cruise control and heated seats. Better quality and structure than BMW M3. So pleased that I am ordering a next generation SLK AMG for my wife!

I am growing to love this car

4.8
thom20818 on 09/09/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I could not pass up purchasing a MB for under $30K. I was luke warm on the back end styling and really wanted more trunk space and 4 doors, HOWEVER, after owning the car for over a month it has really grown on me. It does so many things well that I have changed my mind on the styling and found that I can easily live with 2 doors. I had two minor cosmetic flaws which are being taken care of. Otherwise, the car is fun to drive, full of gadgets (I am still not finished reading the owners manual), and has real curbside appeal.

Quality?

3.8
mercedes quality? on 09/06/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

Got it instead of a loaded Passat. Fell in love with the handling, the pick up, and how quiet it is. Now that I have had it for almost 6 months, the true mass market to America is rearing its ugly head. Mercedes cannot seem to get the rattles fixed, the A/C is spazzing out, the sunroof shade sticks and sounds like a shotgun going off when the spring pulls it away, and the cupholder is already jamming up. This is a great car performance wise (quick, great cornering, and quiet), but not worth the 31k that I spent. I am probably going to sell it now before the 2003's come out,so I can get the best bang for my buck.

C320 Sedan is great

5
Andy J on 09/05/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Fun to drive, lots power C320 with attrative styling especially the head lamp

Problems and more problems!!

3.4
PDE on 09/01/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Love the styling, handling and performance, but I'm not sure I made the right buying decision. I have had the car (with only 15000 miles) in for repairs four time so far. All the problems have been with the electronics systems going bad and having to be replaced. Thes have included... stability control (twice), alarm system (twice), sunroof (twice), rear sunshade, infrared keys, rain sensing intermittent wipers. I have owned the car for less than a year and a half! With a Yugo, I would expect this, but a Mercedes?

THIS CAR ROCKS!

5
MarchingBearCat on 08/24/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my second car ever and I love this one. I love how little it is without having to compromise confort. Even people that sit in the back have plenty of leg room because of the way the back of the front two seats are curved in. My dad, who has had tons of cars, most more expensive than mine had fun playing with the automatic wipers .. with the hose!

Incredible Value

5
raylaz on 08/23/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Mercedes has an absolute winner with the C230. BMW, Audi nor Porsche have a similiar entry-level offering at this price. Great Mercedes marketing strategy to hook new buyers, I'm sure this will be the first of many more Benz autos that we will purchase.

Great Car with horrible Build Quality

4.1
babo21 on 08/23/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

smooth V6, good handling, looks luxurious and the name Mercedes However, it is seriously overpriced, i bought mine for 4 grand under MSRP. No in dash CD, CD changer cost $800 becuz stupid fiber optic cable. horrendous build quality.. one of the speaker went out on first day..electronic key failure on second day.. kinda scared what's up next..

A DREAM COME TRUE

5
PENICHET on 08/16/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

THE SPORTS PACKAGE IS THE BEST $3010 I HAVE EXPENDED; IT BRINGS TOGETHER COMFORT & EXCITEMENT. THIS IS A SOLID CAR, AND EVEN WHEN THE V6 HAS LESS HP THAN THE 4CYL SUPERCHARGED IT FEELS STRONGER AND MORE REFINED.

C320

4.5
DVP on 08/15/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Having owned a 3 series and driven most other sports sedans, I think this car is underrated by the BMW-biased media. For everyday driving, city/rural/sports/casual, this car has an exceptionally well executed blend of competence, composure, speed and safety....without the attitude of the BMW sales & service staff. Add the "Evolution" package rubber and rims from the C230 for even better handling and appeal.

I love my wife's car.

5
C ME GO on 08/08/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I warm up to cars slowly but this latest C-Class by MB with the big 3.2L twin-spark V6 won me over quickly. And, it's big enough for 95 percentile males to drive and has many comfortable seating positions. The engine just loafs, even on the biggest hills, and the whole package delivers comforting feelings of security, competence and value.

sweetness

5
sweetness233 on 08/06/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It's a miracle I love this car!!!!! I never thought that I would be able to afford a mercedes untill the C230 came out. this is one of the best deales around!!!!!!

WOW

5
FBANKS on 08/02/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

GREAT CAR TO DRIVE.

Great Car

5
dro1 on 08/02/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The 2.3L is fun to drive, has good hp and torque over a rather large rpm band. The Editor's reviews have cupholders getting as much weight as the engine performance. No, the cupholders aren't too functional (although their "ejection" mechanism is cool), but I'll take the car's performance/value ratio over the cupholder/big gulp ratio.

Best and nicest car I have ever owned.

4.6
ktmolloy on 07/31/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I would like the standard radio to produce a better-quality sound. In addition, I would like the passenger outside mirror tilt-down to be standard. The a/c on high or auto could be quieter. For some reason the parking brake (which I appreciate on the floor like American cars) seems to have loosened. However, when I called the 800 number, the person with whom I spoke (who was very attentive, interested, and nice) told me it could be normal. Yet he advised me to take it to the Dealer, and he would send me a tow if I were worried about driving the car (much appreciated).

Great car!

5
Myles on 07/27/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love this car. It isn't that old but it has made me take the long route just because it is such a great car!

Nothing but problems

3.6
Cent45 on 07/26/2002

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

It's been in twice for engine work. The sunshade has broken twice as well first the front and then the back. The shift casing is constantly coming off. They had to replace my radio once because it kept fading in and out. It's too bad because I love it when its working, but now I'm trying to get rid of it. Also any dealer that has voicemail in their service dept. should be flogged.

Good car but......

4.1
blox on 07/20/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

I was interested to read the many comments from owners of the 320 regarding the tires. I have needed new tires since I reached 10,000 miles! I do not drive hard miles! MB has agreed to pay for two tires as well as an alignment! In addition, the outside mirrors do not work in conjunction with the electric seats! MB has promised to fixed that as well. All in all, the car has been a disappointment since I expected much more from Mercedes.

Value you just can't beat!!!

5
SF Bay Area Fan on 07/18/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had it for 3 weeks now and have already passed the 1000 mile mark and I love the car. I got it because I drive alot for my job and needed a fuel efficient, comfortable car...and I got it! It cools well. The sunroof is great. The Bose sound system is better than other Bose systems I've heard. But, I wish I could fit a full set of golf clubs in the trunk (I also have a convertible BMW 328, and they managed to do that). Also, I have the Nav and w/o the CD changer, you can either listen to CDs or do the Nav (not both).

The Ultimate in Stealth

5
BenzOwner on 07/17/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my first Mercedes. Having been a loyal Cadillac owner for over 8 years, I do find the C32 AMG a bit cramped at times, but that's pretty much the only complaint I have. The C32 has a sporty enough exterior, but still gives no real clue of its awesome power to unsuspecting challengers until it's too late. "Stealth" I also like the fact that this is a rare and special car. I have not seen another one like it to date. It is 100% Mercedes quality too. Powerful and handles like a dream. "If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up." - Ferris Bueller

Best of the Best

5
T-Bone on 07/11/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The New Mercedes C230 Sport Coupe is so fine I can't believe they are able to sell this car for under $30,000. Of course one can add enough options for a price well into the 30's but it is worth every penny for the Quality & Satisfaction packed into this Car. The sunroof is the best in the market and nothing is safer than a Mercedes - nothing. My Black 230 turns heads and gets lots of smiles and waves around town! (I've smoked quite a few sportsters around town too) Highly Recommended! Peace...

Sweet Car

5
MrWabam on 07/11/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Had this car for a few weeks now, the Bose sound system definitly impressed me. I have the c5 and c7 package, and the increase in fun on the c7 package is definitly worth it, can't go wrong with the 17" wheels.

To be young again!

4.5
Speed on 07/08/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Wish I was 25 again and had this car. Who would think old old man's Mercedes could eat unsuspecting Camaro/Mustangs for lunch. Most of them won't even look at you at a stop light because who would race a Mercedes? When the light goes green and you wave Bye-Bye, it is such a trip. Is the car perfect? No. But I have never seen one yet that is. Is the car FUN to drive? ABSOLUTELY!!!

Great Fun

4.4
Welshy on 07/07/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Great fun to drive, six speed gears are very close in ratio, sticks to corners like glue, looks good and turns heads.

SURE BEATS WALKING

4.6
socalwx on 07/05/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I THINK THE REVIEW BY EDMUNDS MISSES THE POINT, ITS NOT ABOUT GETTING THE CAR ALL LOADED UP WITH A BUNCH OF STUFF, BUT HAVING THE CHOICE TO PICK OUT A COUPLE OF THINGS THAT YOU REALLY WANT TO HAVE IN A GREAT LITTLE CAR. MINE CAME IN WELL UNDER 30 WITH TAXES, I SMILE EVERY TIME I SEE THE CAR. I STILL CANT HANDLE THE FACT THAT ITS MINE. I LOVE THE WAY IT DRIVES AND THAT ITS NOT SOME BIG HACKIN SUV, THAT HAS AN OWNER TO MATCH. YEAH WELL I JUST GOT MY SOUND IN AND THE CD'S ARE KICKIN ON MY BOSE :) SO I AM HAPPY. OUT

"02 Merc Benz C320 Sportwagon - O.K. ?

4
soflor1 on 07/04/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Car is pretty solid, drives well, good power and speed for size. However, nagging problems with computer - mirror controls don't hold, ESP program shorts - and dealer can't find the origins of the problems - "wait for MB service bulletins", they say. Transmission seems to go hunting at times. Bose "bass" is non-existant. I also own a '99 CLK320 - much better quality materials in and out. MB seems to be catching up to Chrysler in quality control - too bad!

Even rush hour is fun!

4.9
Chuck , Boston on 06/30/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I knew the C32 was an awesome performance car. What I didn't fully appreciate was the ability to handle "everyday" driving so well, and then exhibit outstanding performance on command. No compromises! It transitions magnificently from daily driver to exhilarating fun weekend car. The AMG transmission is truly outstanding.

What an Amazing Car

4.9
pjc on 06/29/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had my new 2002 C320 for 7 months now and no repairs needed yet -- at all. The power moonroof occasionally gets out of sync, but by checking the manual, I discovered that I just have to hold the rear pop-up button for a couple of seconds to resync it. Other than that, no glitches at all in 7 months. Amazing! It's an absolute joy to drive. Amazing power, tho not quite as agile as my '75 MBZ, which had a tighter suspension

Nice

4.8
Benzy on 06/27/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Great car...definately mercedes quality

Great Car

4.5
Floyd McKissick on 06/24/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I also have a 2000 CLK and this car has just as much "go" to it. I also like it much better than my '97 Z3. This is a great car. Fun to drive.

Great car poor radio

4.1
mreckitt on 06/22/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

This car is much improved over my 96 220.

"Baby Benz"

4.8
dnisely on 06/20/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The "Baby Benz" is a fun car to drive. It hugs the road while giving a sensation of floating over the surface. It is made for high speed driving. Although I wish the hatchback/rear-end design could be modified, I find the car is a very practical yet sporty vehicle. I love my b-benz. For the money it's a exceptional vaulue. It is a Benz!

Don't care what it would have cost

5
winglow on 06/19/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Where do you get this kind of performance without MB or BMW? I have a new Corvette convertible, have owned Ferrari's and Porsche's too. Loved them all and the Corvette is not exactly the crude vehicle that others consider it... but I want another C32. The M3 is a totally different car. Both good but this was perfect for my wife when she wanted to ditch her 2000 S class Sport.

Sinply Mercedes

5
sburrell on 06/14/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Having once been a car salesperson I have driven quite a few. Dollar for dollar our C230 is probably one of the best. The auto transmission is a joy, all of the controls are right where you need them and after you aclimate yourself to the radio and other features the logic behind them is apparent. I'm getting used to the abbreviated rear end but my wife loves the look.

Love this Car!

5
mel6008 on 06/12/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love this car! It's comfortable and drives like a dream--very stable and smooth.

Great Car

5
sadamb on 06/06/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

So far I have loved this car. The looks you get while driving this car are great. Its affordable for being a Mercedes and I feel good about the safety features.

MBZ 2002- C 320

5
WHALER on 06/05/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Attention to detail is excellent as is the layout and comfort features. Finish and fit is flawless. Bose sound system is without peer and the CD player works well. Layout of controls a little different and take getting used to,but once you are used to their placement they are convenient and make a lot of sense. Car is consistant with MB reputation and quality.

Mercedes Benz C230K "Car of the Year"

4.9
Jigga on 06/05/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love my C230K. I have the Alabaster White w/ leather interior and moonroof. The car handles real well and I love the power for such a small car. It accelerates like a champion. The only complaint that I have is the stock tape deck. Who's idea was it to make this stock? Why didn't they throw in a CD player?

Incredible Car

4.6
blando on 06/04/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

So much can be said about this model. Mercedes/AMG has struck the perfect balance and created a classy performance machine that can be driven everyday as your daily driver while also capable at any moment, and without hesitation, of mixing it up with almost anything out there.

Awesome!!

4.9
Magic on 06/04/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

What a sweet ride!! I love this car. It is fast and good looking. It handles like a dream. It is hard not to go on a highway and see what the top speed is. As fast as I go, the car always seems to want to go faster. The only complaint is a slight rattle noise that seems to be coming from the drivers side door at low speeds. It doesn't do it all the time which makes it a diagnostic nightmare. Other than that, I love the car.

No regrets!

4.9
capt_blondbeard on 06/03/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have been quite happy with this car, and have found no build quality issues of any kind. There are a few things I would have preferred they do in the design, but generally it's a fun, sporty feeling car. BMW has been making their 3-series less sporty and more luxurious, and Mercedes has been going the opposite way (now if they'd just make the AMG models available with a stick!)

C230 - Sauerkraut Burner

5
duellist on 05/31/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have enjoyed the C230 for 6 months and it is definitely one of the best cars I have driven. It is smooth, yet sporty. The C-class sedan is smoother and faster with the V6, however the sweet high revs of the kompressor engine is a different feel all together. The drive brings the boy racer out in everyone. The engines sounds so cool in 1st and 2nd gear up and down Yorkville. On the highway the kompressor engine really comes out to play. Passing was a breeze and torque was strong even in 4th gear. The C230 is very refined and provides all the luxury, status and fun for us Gen- Xers.

Best Car on the Market in its class..

4.8
Voltaire on 05/30/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A lot of people will say different things about a lot of different areas of a car, this is quicker, that is faster, this handles better, but when all is said and done and when everything is taken into account and you look at the entire package you just can't beat a Benz! The C-320 holds true to its nature, offering comfort, luxury, safety, reliability, and performance all in one, that is truly admirable and like no other in its class.. I'm a first time Benz owner and I have to say, its the best car I've ever driven..and I've driven them all (under 100K that is..).

Great Car

5
Ed99 on 05/28/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my first Mercedes. Grate car to own, excellent service provided by MB.

Love It

4.9
MSP on 05/28/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had my C240 2002 since August of last year and had no problem. Why buy another make of car, when you can buy a Mercedes in the 30's.

My C230 Baby

5
AMS on 05/25/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I Love this car!!! The features that this car has is worth the money, by FAR!

Great Alternative To SUV's

4.5
Dave in Indy on 05/24/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

Growing tired of SUV's, we looked at a number of wagons (BMW, VW, Audi, Volvo, & MB) before deciding on the C-320 Sport Wagon. The engine is very strong. Fit & finish is typically perfect Mercedes. The car has a slightly heavy feel during cornering, but there is very little body lean and NO noise from the body or chassis. The dash display is a little clunky, not matching the simple elegance of the rest of the interior. And the Bose stereo is pathetic at reproducing the lower frequencies. Shockingly pathetic. Still a VERY nice car. Give it a try, ... you'll probably love it.

Betters BMW's hatchback in every way

4.9
dmichael on 05/24/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is what most 4 cylinder cars lack and this car despite is hefty weight can really pull you along in almost any gear. The thing you will notice most on first drive is the tourque in every gear, and the ride comfort and quiet cabin. It soaks up the bumps (even with the 17 inch wheels) and if you really want to blast through a turn it will grip it and rip it with the some of the best cars I have ever driven. Very good combination of relaxed ride and balls out handling. My car has been very reliable too. Only little annoyances to report after 5 months of ownership. Enjoy the ride!

So Far So Good

5
benzi on 05/21/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased a 2002 C240 with Automatic Trans in Oct. 2001, after looking at VW Passat, Volvo and BMW. I am very surprised at the reviews I've been reading, because so far this car has been wonderful. No problems what so ever, it drives great, it shifts extremely smoothly, it is very quite and I still love the way it looks in the inside and outside. Maybe I got lucky. You have to get used to the controls and the complex computer, but so far I have nothing but praise.

Great Car for the Money

4.9
ShadowNeko on 05/19/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I got a white ext. with Oyster Leather with C2, C5, C7 and NAV for $32K. Get the leather seat and the Sunroof. The rain sensor is nice so you don't have to keep turning up and down on the wipers. Get the Sport package if you wants all the teenagers to look at your car. And get used to the questions and the stares by the by-standers and Toll-men, Gas-men. and not to mentioned (again) to all the teenagers! The Kompressor was great! No lag at all. Solid car for the money.

A Worthy Successor

4.8
huntzinger on 05/18/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I drove a VW Scirocco for 11 years, partly because I could not find a suitable replacement. The Scirocco has been gone for 7 years and I think I've finally found its worthy successor. I wanted a Teutonic vehicle comparable to the Scriocco, plus a bit more: equal utility & performance, less interior cabin noise (NVH), slightly more back seat head & leg room. Plus good vehicle safety systems (head/side airbags, ABS, etc). The other cars on my short list were the Audi A4 Avant, BMW 325i Wagon, and the VW GTI. Each had their pros/cons. But I found that the C230 was "rightsized" for me - not too big, not too small, and because I skipped buying all but two options, a good value.

C320 IS PERFECT

5
ALAN0917 on 05/16/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

have had my C320 for about 7 months now. mechanically excellent. Very satisfied.

C320 wagon

4.9
Newby MB Owner on 05/15/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Our MB C320 wagon is a wonderful car. It has plenty of power, is loaded with safety features,and can swallow tons of luggage. Build quality is typical MB: no squeaks, no rattles, and little body flex. Material quality is excellent. And the car handles very well, with great brakes and admirable cornering.

German Cars Are Superior

5
Samad Beg on 05/09/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had my c230 for a few months and this car rules. I make 90 degree turns at 50mph and the car doesent even squeak. The acceleration is great, and this car handles like a more expensive car than it is. It totally outperforms BMW by quality and sticker price. The panarama sunroof is awesome and the three spoke steering is really comfortable.

The Service Manager is my best friend

3.6
ranbou on 05/08/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

I have had my C320 for 3 months and I have had 5 service visits. Items like windows and sunroofs not operating are one thing, but when the car stalls out on you 5 times in different traffic situations, it's time to move to another vehicle. Yesterday was the last straw. Driving around 70 on a packed Interstate, the engine lost power. From the fast lane, I have to negotiate to the shoulder of the road. It was a pretty hair-raising and frustrating experience. When I hit the shoulder, the engine perked up again and I was able to drive to the dealership. I am very disappointed and I will be getting rid of it ASAP. I expected more from MB.

Truely a Disappointment

2.9
Johnny-Benz on 05/08/2002

Performance: 2 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 2

Great looking car, but TOO MANY Probelems. I had to go to the dealer 9 times for repairs like linkage, shifter, sunshade, 3 sensors, keys didn't work, seats and more. From what I read from other C-class owners, I think it might be time for a class action lawsuit against Mercedes Benz !

My Mercedes C230

4.9
Dnice on 05/07/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Thanks to Mercedes for a car that performs, looks great, and feels solid. I have no regrets in my selection. It rides smoothly on the road and goes around curves with ease. Even on wet roads, it's performance is uncompromised. I did opt for the "wheel package option" which is probably a good part of the reason the ride is simply wonderful.

C230 Coupe

4.9
c702000 on 05/05/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

4000 Miles no problems excellent car and value for the money.

WHAT A FANTASTIC AUTOMOBILE!

5
groovology on 05/03/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my 1st German car- what a difference. It is SO solid! And quiet, and powerful! I chose the MBZ over the Passat GLX wagon & BMW 325 wagon. The choice came down to quality and quietness. The BMW was cramped and really noisy (by design, I know), and the VW seemed "plasticky" although it too seemed nice. The MBZ has more feature than either of them, and I think the long term value will hold up far better than either of them. I definitely believe it is worth the extra money (hint: buy it over the internet to save $$!) I'm sure I'll be happy with it as long as it lives up to MBZ reputation for reliability.

GAZER'S C230 REVIEW

4.9
GAZER'S BENZ on 05/01/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

THIS CAR IS A PURE PLEASURE TO DRIVE- IT IS VERY HARD TO PARK AND GET OUT! RATED AT 26MPG HWY BUT AM GETTING OVER 29MPG HWY RUNNING 70 - 80 MPH FOR OVER 400 MILES -- ONLY HAVE 2500 MILE ON CAR. CONSIDERED - NISSAN ALTIMA, MAXIMA, VOLVO S240, PISSAT, CAMARY, TRADED IN NISSAN 2001 XTERRA

c230

4.6
Cira on 04/29/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

The enginneering of this car is spectacular. MB has thought of everything. The ride is supreme and the handling is awesome. The "fun factor" is off the chart. Only complaint is lack of lumbar support. Strongly advise panoramic roof, Bose stereo and power seats. Still a great value.

spend elsewhere

3
errand boy on 04/28/2002

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I have had this car for about 15 months and been to the repair shop 5 times with problems. Including a one week siesta for my benz with no loaner.The car is slightly underpowered. Since my wife and I wanted manual, the 320 was not an option.She drives it most of the time. The most serious problem was when the car stalled suddenly.They claimed it was the ac compressor disengaging the clutch. We got it back the first time and it drove fine, but the ac still did'nt work. Nowadays I pretty much only drive the car when it has to go in the shop, which is about every 2 1/2 months. I drive a 2001 passat v6 and have no problems. One would expect some quality control from mb.

A nice example of good engineering . . .

4.9
chronopassion on 04/27/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I am amazed that there can be so much variability in this car. Everybody I know seems to have only occassional issues that arise. The vast majority of people I know with this car do very well with it. Makes me wonder how legit some of the complaintes are. Anyway, I have only had a couple very minor cosmetic issues and nothing I would even describe as a minor problem. Wonderful fun car to drive.

Good, but...

4.6
Phil Sabah on 04/22/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I got my 2002 C240 3 months ago, brand new from the dealer. I like the looks of it. when i went to pick it up, i noticed a malfunction msg on the board (Rear lamp), was a loose wire. Few weeks later, i had a tape stuck in the cassette, and took it back to the dealer. Now, three months later, i have 2200 miles on it, and drives good. Yestrday I noticed the left window button lost its one-touch charm, so i need to take it back..i also had 3 occurances where i hear a loud whistle when i start the car in the morning...the dealer couldn't pin-point the problem.

NICE CAR

5
LILY on 04/22/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

COMFORTABLE CAR AND I LOVE IT.

GREAT CAR

5
MERCEDES on 04/22/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I LOVE THE CAR, VERY NICE BODY AND COMPUTER SYSTEMS.

C32 Review

4.9
Norm C32 on 04/16/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Impressive power from the supercharged V6 mated to automatic transmission with Speedshift. The handling is the best match for the street and track but with quality that passengers that pass through its 4-door will not find uncomfortable. Interior has a nice heavy weighted feeling to the controls which give it a rich quality which other drivers found very substantial. I am very please overall with the C32.

Excellent Value for a Benz mobile!

5
Lacoste on 04/14/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

What a car for the Suggested MSRP of $25K! Car is extremely fun to drive and after testing both Manual and Auto transmissions... both are great - just matters which on you prefer. Car seems after two months of ownership to be still rattle free. Car is a blast to drive with the moonroof open. I recommend getting the upgraded tire package of $750.00 and the leather option and the sun roof!

Not like they used to be

3.6
benz gal on 04/12/2002

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

I just purchased a C240, 4 door sedan, after much research on edmunds and other consumer websites, comparing the BMW 325I and Audi A4 quatro. I consider my self very loyal to Mercedes- - this is my 3rd one. However, the day after I took delivery on my new C240, the instrument panel indicated that my engine was overheating. Only 4 days of ownership, Mercedes had to replace the cooling system fan unit! We'll see whether this solves the problem. However, now I'm noticing that my fog lights are not working properly. Needing to bring a new car into the service department is really a bummer, not to mention a waste of time! Mercedes quality seems to have deteriorated over the years.

poor build quality

2.8
wc on 04/11/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I never thought I could write a review after only putting less than 2000 miles on my brand new 2002 C320. I guess I was simply one of the most unfortunate MB owners(but fortunate enough to be able sit here and write this review). In the past 3 weeks, I had two very scary experiences. The car engine suddenly died on the freeway in two separate incidents. There was no warning nor malfunction code. The car had been in two separate dealers. Numerous parts had been replaced. As of today, I am still not convinced that the problem is 100% solved.

Thumbs UP!

1.1
c320happy on 04/11/2002

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

I love this car. Couldn't be happier. Only gripe is the digital instument panel menu. Took awhile to master... a bit confusing. But the car is powerful, quiet, and fun to drive.

The BEST!!!!!!

5
busybody on 04/11/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Unless you are really that unlucky to get a lemon, otherwise it is the best car- dolloar 4 dollar! I got the C1 and C5 packages plus teleaid and navigation... Find me a car that can pack all that yet still cost less than 34K. It is the "BEST"! Mercedes Benz rocks!!! Smooth ride, excellent build quality, German engineering and relatively powerful engine. Handling is better than Acura CL or BMW 3 ci.

a great value car

5
cheche on 04/08/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

i love it

What a Turkey....

3
SP on 04/08/2002

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

This car looks lovely, but is an absolute piece of junk. First, the purge valve was so noisy that it could be heard above the stereo. It took 4 visits to 2 dealerships to get it fixed. The ABS has failed twice in the past 3 weeks, and just today, the climate control system as well as the automatic mirror adjustments have stopped working. The car, as well as MB service are stuff that nightmares are made of.

Great Car!

5
Chrystal on 04/08/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the best car purchase I have ever made. This car is smooth as silk when you are driving it. It is a great car for the price! You can't do any better.

pleased new owner

4.8
cme4brain on 04/07/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Just bought a new 2002 C240 and traded in 1998 Volvo S70. Smaller car, not as fast, but as satisfied (I have 800 miles on Merc). No problems yet, build quality seems excellent, have non-Bose stereo and am pleased with it. Handles like a Mercedes whick is to say very solid- doors shut like a bank vault. I like the trip computer (mpg, miles to empty, outside temp, etc.). Overall I am very satisfied and hope that the build quality evident now allows long term ownership.

Love it - but not perfect

4
WilliamV on 04/04/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

Overall I love this car. Performance is very good, handling great, interior suprising roomy for the size. More than that, it makes you want to drive it - often and hard. Eats up highway miles, great fun to toss around. The ride is a little stiff. Steering is stiff. Controls are stiff. Not bad, but an adjustment if you're coming from a more pampering car. One serious complaint - more rattles and squeeks from the roof area that I would expect from a Mercedes.

Value

5
taxswiz on 04/02/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Cant get a better value in a vehicle for performance and comfort.

Love my C Coupe!

5
B on 03/28/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The car is a great value. Handles well, comfortable seats for normal sized people (e-class seats are for heavier folks) It feels secure and extremely stable like a much larger car.

c230

3.9
egregory on 03/28/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

loving it so far, this car makes my hour long commute tolerable. on had one minor problem with the sunroof, i think i made the right choice for my first car.

great car

4.8
zimmer26 on 03/27/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is the real deal, and noone was initially more skeptical than me- the only reason I own it now is purely due to my cynical curiosity of what type of car MB could offer for 25k and one drive sold me. I was waiting for the 24 valve vr6 GTI but I fast forgot about it. The C230 provides an excellent mix of ride/handling, quality, utility, value and panache that I found irresistible.

WARNING, I got a lemon(READ THIS)

2.5
adrian cox on 03/22/2002

Performance: 2 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

This has been the worst car that I have purchased. I am 24 years old I finally was able to afford a mercedes and look what I got.I have 16 problems with the in 6 months.I had to a lawyer.I only can use 700 characters that is not enough for me to exlpain all of the problems I which I could.Lots engine, fuel problems, and sunshade failures.

new mercedes benz

4.4
f42oc on 03/21/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Car is fun to drive; service is great. Fun car

What a Car........

5
hazzard on 03/21/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have a brillent silver 2002 that I have had for about a month. I can find nothing wrong with this car, it's far better than the Acura or Jag-Xtype, and quiter than both the 3 & 5 series BMW's. I alreay have 2500 miles on it because it's so much fun to drive/be in.

Help

2.9
sick/and tired on 03/20/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

I am utterly disappointed with Mercedes Benz. I spend $46K CDN on this car and on average I make a warranty claim every 6000KM. I have had alignment problems that have ruined my tires and now the dealership wants me to pay for new tires due to uneven wear, when they claimed I never had an alignment problem. My key stopped working once, and I change a headlight every month due to alternator problems. My dealership will do nothing for me. I am really going to trade this car in for another brand.

Not Worth My Money!

3.1
Christine on 03/18/2002

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

I am a former owner of a Toy Solara 00'. Then I did something stupid and trade it in for the C230 because when I 1st test driven it I thought wow what a cool car.I waited 3 mons for my order and finally got the car in Dec of 01, I ended up paying $35k for it. BUT I HAD NOTHING But PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR!! continue....part 2

small but loaded

4.8
c.chan on 03/18/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The car is small on size but even the base model equipment is first rated. Quality is perfect. Unless you are way over 6 feet tall, I don't see a reason to but a bigger Mercedes.

continue from previous Part 2

3
ChristineL on 03/18/2002

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

Right before X-mas which was 3 wks right after I got the car, my sunroof stopped working and later found out that I got a deffect one, and it took the Dealer two wks to fix it. Anyways, the front tires kept going flat on me for like the past two months, so I thought maybe I've ran over a nail or some sort so I kept filling it up with air everytime it goes flat and today I took it to a prof. tire shop and they found out that the rim a hole in it! Can you beleive Mercedes sold me a freakin' Lemon??

2002 C240 a month old!

4.1
EXT.Warranty? on 03/17/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought my 2002 C240w/C2pkg las month for 32750 otd. Since its only a month of time, I can't tell any defective yet. But I have a feeling that I SHOULD have buy extended warranties from dealer($2400)?

no regrets

5
Teddylee on 03/16/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I was set to buy an Acura RSX Type S, and saw that that the C230 was it's competition. Went to see and test drove it, was immediately impessed. It was difficult trying to hide my enthusiam from the salesman. This car is wonderful!!! A lot of standard features that are not available on the RSX. I don't mind the stares while driving or the questions while at the gas pump. My options included the automatic, sunroof and CD changer. This much car for 28k, what a bargain. If you're on the fence...buy one. You won't regret it.

Great all-around car

4.6
Nick Bade on 03/14/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A little jewel with excellent blend of performance, usefulness and comfort. I owned Integra GSR, went to buy a new Acura RSX. But then I tested the C230, found its performance was similar while it was far quieter and more comfortable at high speeds. Aggressive style with Magna red paint catches looks and praise--while the RSX looks ho hum and outdated. M-B has a winner for people who like quality.

Amazing value

4.4
kennygogo on 03/12/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It's a lot of car for the money. I'm not just talking about bells and whistles features; there are plenty of those standard but Acura TL/CL probably includes more for the same price. I'm talking about real substance that I never realized I was missing before I drove this car. It's hard to describe, but if this car doesn't blow you away on first drive, it's probably not the right car for you.

Super cool!

4.6
myname on 03/11/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I just bought my car last week and it's awesome!! I really like the handling and all the little features and gizmos (I bought the COMAND system). I handles very well. So far the passenger headrest and the pen holder have broken, oh well... I just hope that the long term quality will be good.

mercedes c-coupe

4.9
dickson on 03/11/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

this is a great car eventhough it is a little expensive for a hatchback but consider it is a mercedes-benz a famous and well known brand. better than other japanese manufactures.

could be a great automobile

3.8
SAM on 03/10/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

multiple problems with remotes,three attemps to repair, problems with ESP,rear window defroster,whine in rear axle on acc at 60mph,with FM radio on and rear def activated sound quality diminished, Great handling, great style, build quality average to below for Mercedes Benz.

mercedes-benz C240

4.8
max neseconti on 03/09/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have c240 5-speed auto, I enjoy driving the car because the engine is so smooth and the handling is excellent.

Buy a "C"

5
FiFi on 03/08/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

6 speed is great. Lot's of performance. Get's 29 to 30 on trip 18 in city.

Solid Performance

5
Veronica on 03/05/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car. Solid performance, gas mileage as stated; zippy acceleration and powerful driving. After an eight-year SUV hiatus away from my last Mercedes, it's great to be driving a Mercedes again. I quibble with Edmunds' observation about back seat roominess; my husband is 6'2", and he sat in the back seat for a test drive with no complaints.

finally came in

4.9
agold on 03/05/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I ordered my c230k just before thanksgiving and took delivery on feb 22nd. A 1st time MB owner, I am more than happy with the car and for the $$$, it is an exceptional value. Auto, roof, wheels and cd round off the options and at well under $28k, what a bargain.

Surperb Benz!

5
Beachboy on 03/04/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love my C-Class! It's fun to drive and feels/looks like a shrunken S-Class. It is first-class luxury at a great price. I really enjoy the touch-shift feature. Mercedes-Benz has a hit with this one. It tops the Lexus ES-300 that I used to own (the new ES-300 looks too much like a cheap Camry or Maxima).

WOW ALL AROUND!!!

5
sawnrockalot on 03/03/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

i have been driving my 2002 c coupe and all though my friends call it a box i have relied o it to take me places and it has done so in an eye catching way. steering does get a bit spinny at top speeds but overall a joy to ride.

so far so good....

4.6
carbuff on 03/02/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

so far this car c320 has preform very well...i like how the car feels and handles and the looks of the car...i have read that mb has had trouble with transmission problems and electrial problems..i have a 2002 and so far no problems to speak about...hope it does continue...i have bought four lexus in the past and wanted to see how well mb is to compare...the jury is still out and waiting..to early to tell.....

Can I get heat with that

2.9
BRP on 03/02/2002

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Picked up our new C240 8hrs after arrival at dealer Thurs. Wasn't ready as promised. Heater wouldn't work. Called at 10am next day as instructed. Car ready. Arrive 12:30pm and pick up car. Minutes away from dealership, turn heater on full blast. Thirty minutes later arrive at my office and cold air still flowing. Therefore, can assume one of two things: dealer never fixed heater; dealer fixed heater and it broke a second time before driven off the dealer's lot. Lemon?

a little surprised

4.4
hosuk lee on 03/02/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 2

I had to take my car(C240) in for a warrenty job 4 times. They weren't because of big jobs.. They were just minor jobs but I was very annoyed. I expected a better car than this from Mercedes. The things I had to get fixed were windows making clicking noise when closing, remote key not working properly, and the trunk not openning unless manually opened with the metal key. I expected more of a car since I paid $37000 for a tiny car like C240.

Best car under $40,000

4.9
Paul Blinn on 03/02/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Very nice looking and drives great

Disappointed

3.4
NoMerz on 03/01/2002

Performance: 3 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I got my 2001 in February of last year. For the first 10K miles, the car drive like a dream, but after the 10K mark things started to happen.-Rear Sun Shade motor replaced-Vibration at speed 40 mph when parked over 5 hours ibration disappears about 15/20 minutes drive)-Uneven wear (wavy) on the outside treads-CD/Radio on/off intermittent (Fiber Cable replaced) -Purge Valve replaced-AC acting up-hot air out of vent -Whine in low speed (0-20 mph)

Perfect

5
mb driver on 02/28/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

No more to say

Happy-Despite the Break DOWN

5
MzDoubleR on 02/27/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Overall the car is nice, I just purchased the vehicle less than a week and it cut off on me, now I do have a loaner, but why should a brand new car cut off especially on the highway. I think actually the new cars are too loaded with the new space age devices, which probably caused my car to cut off. I still love the car though, but I'm hoping I don't go through the horror stories that has been issued pertaining to the other models.

C230 what A car!

4.9
jh007d on 02/27/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I recently bought C230. And, this is one of the kind. For the price, I actually get more than I paid for.

The all time perfect car.

4.9
c32hammer on 02/27/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have found the perfect all around car, its name is C32. Try it you will love it.

2002 MB C230 Sport Coupe

5
u0043928 on 02/26/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great bargain for an entry level Mercedes. Shared the same technology and safety features as C240 & C320 for much less. Solid, stable and agile. The 3-pointed star on the grill set it apart as the sport/performance category than the C-sedans.

Double your pleasure

4.6
double your fun on 02/14/2002

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased two C320's in October 2001. One for myself (sport model) and one for my wife (standard model). We love both of the cars. Previously, I had a 98" C280. The C320 is a major improvement over the C280. No comparison. Fun to drive but mileage is not quite as good as C280 probably due to higher displacement and horsepower in the C320. Switched wheels on my wifes car to E420 sport wheels (17") and car rides exactly like a C320 Sport Model but with a different look.

Great Baby Benz

5
skogkatt on 02/14/2002

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased my C230 in December after having researched and test driven the BMW 325i, Honda Accord EX, and Nissan Altima. After driving the C230, there was no more need for comparison. The car has a solid build coupled with great looks. The supercharger makes it fast and fun to drive. I opted for the 6-speed, wheel package, and CD player. It still came in under $27K. The true joy of life is the trip. Mercedes C230 makes it more enjoyable.

Never again

3.1
Shocked on 02/06/2002

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Owned it 14 months, visited the shop 5 times( over 30 days of unresolved issues ). A nuisance and disappointment. The last issue : the heating diverting all air flow to the driver's side. I baked and the passengers froze. MB took 20 days to get new parts from Germany!. The new part was also defective so they had to swap the good elements to the original part in my car. MB USA when approached referred me back to the dealer. My only option is trade for another brand and forget MB


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