What they said when it was new
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.
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. 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.
What to pay & which one to buy
Anything less than the 2.0 litre engines feels underpowered. Our pick, if you are buying an older car, from say 2004, the petrosl are surprisingly often found to be a few hundred pounds more than the diesels. But the diesels will have an average of 6,000 miles more on the clock and tend to be more expensive to run in terms of repair costs. But the trade off is the 2.2 CDi offers 48 mpg compared to the 2.6 litre petrol’s 27 and the 2.0 litre petrol’s 28 mpg. It’s a close call, but we would take the 2.6 litre petrol as it’s a much more enjoyable drive, never under strain. It is likel to be less to keep on the rod, so the only downside is the mpg. But if you do less than 10,000 miles a year you won’t notice.
What to check
1) Timing chain Open the bonnet and unscrew the oil cap on top of the engine. Look at the colour of the oil on the inside. Also, pull out the dipstick and check the colour of oil there. The oil should be a clear-golden colour. Black oil means the car is overdue a service and has been neglected. Long-term neglect will lead to expensive timing chain problems. The car needs to be serviced and checked by a specialist. Budget £250 for this.
2) Head gasket Look at the front corners of the engine for oil dripping and running down the engine sides. Oil running down the outside edge of the engine indicates that the head gasket needs replacing. Negotiate a £400 discount or have the repair completed.