W203 2004 - 2007 Which to buy

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Hi,

I currently own a C200 Kompressor 2001 Classic and it is full of rust, considering buying a newer W203 from 2004 to 2007, I have always had a petrol car, which model would be best, I'm not sure what the different trim levels are, thanks.
 

robparker

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C55, obviously!
 

alexanderfoti

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Keep in mind the M271 engine (200-230 kompressor) is known to have issues with the timing chains/gears around 50-70k so keep in mind when looking for one.
 

L John

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Your end date is around the start of the W204, a much better choice in my opinion (I believe rust issues were addressed as well as other improvements) unless you prefer the look of the W203.
 

alexanderfoti

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I agree. If you can stretch, go to a 204. It's a fantastic car all around and very very reliable in comparison to the other models around that time.
 

th3h1ghlander

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I agree. If you can stretch, go to a 204. It's a fantastic car all around and very very reliable in comparison to the other models around that time.

Your end date is around the start of the W204, a much better choice in my opinion (I believe rust issues were addressed as well as other improvements) unless you prefer the look of the W203.

Agreed, w204 is more sound mechanically however I do feel it looks a little more angular and boring, w203 does have a bit more character, and is a lot cheaper (but for good reason). However, if he is set on a w203 for cost/preference reasons, what trim options are there? (Avantgarde etc.)


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forrester

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I have a rare '03 E320 petrol with only 69k & full S/H & long mot with no advisories.
Excellent condition inside & out & is a delight to drive.
For sale at £2650!!
 

th3h1ghlander

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I have a rare '03 E320 petrol with only 69k & full S/H & long mot with no advisories.
Excellent condition inside & out & is a delight to drive.
For sale at £2650!!

Post a link to your classifieds/advert. Pix?


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L John

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W204 C350 Petrol Elegance
Preferring the shape is a good reason to buy the older model and I can see the wheels being a Brucie (RIP) bonus.
Good luck, hope you find one that meets your needs.
 

th3h1ghlander

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I prefer the shape of the W203 rather than the W204, I also have two sets of wheels for my current car, one set are AMG 18" wheels the others I think 15" with winter tyres, these could go on another W203.

Very good point, I believe that there may be variations in the hub configuration meaning that the w204/w203 alloys are not compatible without spacers/modification. I am no expert in this.


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umblecumbuz

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I have had both the 203 and 204 models, and although the 204 is a better car in many respects, I much prefer the elegant lines of the 203.

If it's a 203 you go for, post 2004 models are better built - plus being the facelift period, until production stopped in 2007.

The 204 class (first made in 2007) handles more crisply and has a better ride than the 203's, plus a few higher quality internal touches.

You pays your money ...
 

Steve@Avantgarde

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Personally I think the best 203's C55 aside, is the C320CDI. C class with a very torquey but efficient V6 diesel is just awesome, good mix of power and economy. The sport editions handle brilliantly as well.

I have a late model W203 C320CDI sport edition estate with a fully loaded spec and its just great. Compared to the early model W204 I think its a much better vehicle. I have often looked at swapping it but I don't think an early W204 with the V6 is as good. The exception to that is the command system, that is much better.

But if you want a later 203, the C320CDI would be my choice.
 

Steve@Avantgarde

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A bit poverty spec that, you can get them with comand, parktronic, heated seats etc. Usually has proper leather as well, not the usual plastic artico imitation.
 

JBell

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A bit poverty spec that, you can get them with comand, parktronic, heated seats etc. Usually has proper leather as well, not the usual plastic artico imitation.

Not many 320Cdi around, the petrol one I posted has it all
 

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