C270 CDi Elegance SE Auto (00-)

[echo200]

I am looking for the opinions of owners of this model.

Any information about build quality, driving experience, reliability, servicing costs, etc. appreciated.

Not having owned a diesel before, I am particularly interested in the response of the 2685cc engine when allied to automatic transmission.

 

[robbo]

As an owner of W203 (a C320), being brutally honest, the build quality and reliability of the current C class is far from what it should be for a premium priced car. I think the driving experience of the car is great, it is comfortable and the C270 engine is a great performer, if a little noisy. The current CDI engines also appear to have their fair share of injector and turbo problems.

This is not meant to put you off as the C class is a lovely car, but just dont expect perfection and 100% reliability.

Cheers

 

[echo200]

Value for money?

Comments about reliability and build quality are always worrying, especially in view of the premium involved in buying/running a new Mercedes.

I have, for example, read reports about uneven tyre wear, something that affects both the pre-2004 'C' Class and the current and more expensive CLK. This seems to be a ridiculously basic fault to me.

Mercedes-Benz claim to have addressed the issues concerning the previous 'C' Class range with the introduction of the 2004 models, but then they would say that, wouldn't they?

Does anyone know if the latest 'C' Class models are simply a derivative, i.e. a facelift of the W203, or is this a completely new model?

 

[alancolvin]

The latest C-Class modifications seem to me to be mostly a face-lift, including new clear-plastic lenses for the exterior lights, new instrumentation and dashboard equipment.

Mercedes also cite a new-design for the front suspension. It needed it, because there have been many problems with this. See my recent posting 'W203 C-Class front suspensions clattering and creaking noises'

The C-Class is a lovely design, attractive to look at and a delight to drive.

Sadly, at least in my case (C240 auto, September 2000), the reliability has been abysmal.