THE Mercedes C-Class has been vastly improved over the years, from what was a rather poor effort in 1993.
All the models built after 2000 are much better and very close to the class leading BMW 3-Series.
Manual gearboxes were much better, but the vast majority of Mercs are still sold as automatic, and are worth a lot more come resale.
Like all Mercedes too, depreciation is low, although not up to Audi these days.
There is a wide range of models, with engines ranging from a 143bhp supercharged 1.8-litre, through higher output models with the same size engine to a 3.2 V6.
There are also three diesels ranging from a 200 CDi with 122bhp, to the 270 CDi with 170. All offer great economy and decent performance.
Comfort is very good and handling pretty sharp, with well weighted and precise steering and good grip.
But sports suspension, while sharpening cornering, also reduces comfort noticeably.
Interior
All come with climate control, four electric windows, cruise, stability control and part electric seat adjustment. Estates offer much more practicality.
Standard cloth seats feel a bit rough to the touch but last well and should be hard-wearing. Rear leg room is tight and much smaller than in a Ford Mondeo or Renault Laguna.
FAST FACTS
Mercedes C-Class
Price: Pay about £4,400 for an ’03 03-reg Elegance auto, £9,100 for an ’07 07-reg Avantgarde SE auto
Mechanical: 143bhp, 1,796cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving rear wheels via 5-speed automatic gearbox
Max speed: 135mph
0-62mph: 9.6 seconds
Combined mpg: 34
Insurance group: 26
CO2 emissions: 193g/km
Marks: 9/10
Main rival: BMW 3-Series