What they said when the Mercedes-Benz C-Class was new… (Mar 6 2001)
The Mercedes-Benz C-class is the car that has set a new standard in its class. Completely revised it is an entirely new model and it's the one Jaguar must beat with its forthcoming X-Type.
Using 20 technical innovations from the acclaimed S-class it also boasts enhanced equipment levels over the former C-class, six more powerful engines, very high safety standards and superb aerodynamics to cut noise and fuel consumption.
Under the skin it has been extensively reworked to enhance and sharpen handling and produce a much more compliant ride. In all, MB spent £820 Million creating the new C-class and it shows.
I tested the £30,250 C320 Avantgarde which was also equipped with £2,600 of extras including heated memory seats, luxury climate control, multi-disc changer and metallic paint.
The 3.2 litre V6 cylinder engine is new to the car and it packs 218bhp to give truly effortless and smooth performance with immediate and strong pick-up and provided restrained and quiet motorway performance.
Fortunately it was also matched to a creamy five-speed automatic with imperceptible changes up or down and the ability to switch between modes to optimise opportunities and performance.
The smoothness of the power train was matched by that of the anti-locking braking system which was extremely powerful but needed only modest effort to produce rapid deceleration.
I would have personally preferred greater feel to the steering but its tight turning circle and lack of vibration made it very useful around town and enjoyable on longer journeys.
The secondary controls are now much more complex and need greater familiarisation than before and some of the buttons may be considered small by some of those with large fingers. The luxury climate control system was very complex but did not appear to work any better than a more conventional automatic system.
I loved the straightforward instruments and their clarity.
Oddments room was fairly good and the boot held a useful 16 cuft but the cabin was very roomy and easy to access with excellent adjustment on the comfortable front seats and well shaped cushions behind as well.
Visibility was clear with efficient wipers and very powerful lights. You could therefore make the most of the performance and that came in abundance. The 0-60mph gap closed in under 8 seconds and MB claim it tops 150mph. I managed to achieve 27mpg.
The new C-class is a much better car than before, a more complete model in so many ways but most of all it is now a driver's car as well as a very sophisticated car for passengers.
Words: Robin Roberts
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