1999 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review

The luxury car market has become so competitive that even Mercedes-Benz is giving models a lot more zip to stay one of the leaders in it. For instance, the entry-level Mercedes C-Class sedan has been given the supercharged four-cylinder from the automaker's SLK sports car.

C230 Kompressor: This $31,200 sedan is the least expensive car in the big Mercedes line. The C230 Kompressor has a long-winded name, which simply means it's an entry-level C-Class model powered by a 2.3-liter engine with a supercharger (Kompressor). It has the only supercharged engine in its class. The next C-Class model has a V-6 and stickers at $35,600.

The 1998 entry C-Class model came with a 148-horsepower four-cylinder, which provided only adequate acceleration with a driver aboard--and lazy acceleration when carrying four adults.

But the supercharged, dual-overhead-camshaft engine generates 185 horsepower and far more torque than its predecessor. The result is a dramatic increase in acceleration.

The sedan is fast off the line and hits 60 m.p.h. in only 7.6 seconds. It also provides quick merges into fast traffic and brisk 65-75 m.p.h. passing.

So far, so good. But the 16-valve, intercooled engine sounds like a diesel when started cold and often emits a coarse, gruff sound when warmed up.

The engine works with an advanced five-speed automatic transmission, instead of a less flexible four-speed unit. The automatic is generally efficient but sometimes feels confused about what gear it should be in instead of providing consistently crisp, confident shifts.

The engine is at a high 3,000 r.p.m. at 65 m.p.h. But it still feels comfortable during highway cruising and provides a decent, estimated 29 m.p.g. on highways and 21 in the city.

The C230 Kompressor has an anvil-solid feel. It reminded me of 1970s Mercedes sedans, with its conservatively styled boxy body, upright seating, firm seats and stiff-but-supple suspension. Doors close with a reassuring thunk and have easily gripped outside handles for quick entry in public parking areas at night.

Safety items include side air bags. To prevent theft, there's no metal ignition key. Rather, a driver inserts the pointed tip of a key fob into the ignition slot and turns it to start the car; an infrared data exchange between the car and a remote locking/anti-theft system electronically unlocks the steering column and engages the starter motor.

As with the old model, a fair amount of road noise enters the no-nonsense interior. The traditional Mercedes gauges can be read at a glance, but the driver's seat doesn't move back far enough for tall drivers. There's only one windshield wiper, but it's big and does a good job.

The power steering is quick and precise but feels leaden and too heavy in the on-center wheel position. Handling is quite good, and the powerful anti-lock brakes stop this sedan as if it were a sports car. A standard traction control system kicks in on slippery roads.

A key option is the $890 Sport Package, which contains front leather sport seats, a more-responsive suspension and larger wheels and tires.

This Mercedes is billed as a five-seater, but only four adults fit comfortably. And those in back will wish for more room if they are 6-footers. However, the rear fold-down armrest contains sturdy pull-out cupholders.

The big trunk is easily loaded with its low opening and lid that pops up well out of the way. But the plastic rear bumper cover looks as if it could be easily scratched.

The C-Class sedans are five years old and are showing their age. But they're stout, safe cars with good resale value.