2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review

A sporty new Mercedes-Benz model that costs less than $25,000? Yes, and no jokes, please. It DOES have an engine and seats--and a whole lot more.
The new model is the $24,950 C230 sports coupe. It goes on sale today as a 2002 model and is the sportiest car in Mercedes' entry C-Class line. The coupe is meant to draw folks who don't want--or can't afford--a C-Class sedan. Mercedes said it's "for many people who haven't put us on their radar screen, let alone shopping lists."

The C-Class sedan starts at $29,950 with a 168-horsepower engine and has been the least-expensive Mercedes. The C230 has the supercharged, 192-horsepower four-cylinder from the sexy, $38,900 Mercedes SLK roadster.
The C230 shares no body panels with the C-Class sedan. It has the sedan's 106.9-inch wheelbase, but is 7.3 inches shorter overall. Nearly all the curtailed length comes from the coupe's shorter rear overhang, so it comfortably seats four 6-footers and has a roomy cargo area that can be greatly enlarged by flipping the rear seatbacks forward.

Those with long memories might recall the Mercedes 190 sedan, which cost $22,850 when introduced for 1984. But you could buy a 1984 Cadillac DeVille sedan for $17,625. And the C230 coupe is far more sophisticated than that 190E.
Some feel Mercedes is taking a big chance because the C230 is a hatchback model without a conventional trunk. Luxury hatchbacks are hot in Europe, but most Americans consider hatchbacks to be cheap economy models, However, Mercedes expects young car buyers to be especially drawn to the C230 because they're more open to versatile cars. Also, vehicle practicality has become more important to people of all ages--one reason truck sales have soared.

The solid C230 drives like a larger car and is cleverly designed. For instance, it has a high tail with an integrated rear spoiler that normally would block some rear vision. But a tinted plastic panel below the spoiler allows extra vision to help in maneuvering. A panorama sunroof option uses two expansive glass panels that provide an almost uninterrupted skyward view from the windshield to the back seat. A large glass panel slides rearward over the roof when opened.

A downward sloping hood and longer front overhang create a wedge-shaped profile that imparts forward motion even when the C230 is parked. However, thick rear roof pillars hinder visibility from the driver's seat.
The new model is well-equipped. Standard items include dual-zone climate control, supportive sport seats, AM/FM/cassette, aluminum interior trim and leather-wrapped steering wheel with pushbuttons that allow control of navigation, telephone, trip computer and audio systems.

Gauges can be quickly read, and large controls are easy to use. But seatback adjustment controls are hard to reach and operate and the big inside rearview mirror obstructs visibility. Inside door handles are too small and the front pop-out cupholder has a goofy design.
Safety features include side curtain air bags that span front and rear passenger compartments, an anti-skid stability control system and anti-lock brakes with an assist feature that reduces braking distances in quick stops.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard, while a five-speed automatic with a manual shift feature costs $1,300. You can run the car's price up with seductive options such as $1,225 power front "memory" seats, $2,190 integrated digital telephone and CD changer with voice control and $2,700 premium package that contains the panorama sunroof feature with rain sensor, Bose sound system and leather upholstery.

The supercharged engine propels the 130-mph C230 to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds. But the manual shifter has a rubbery, uncertain feel and the clutch doesn't allow smooth takeoffs unless you're careful about coordinating throttle-clutch action. The automatic transmission emphasizes supercharger lag not felt much with the manual.

The steering is fast enough, but has a numb feel. The ride is very supple, almost too soft for such a sporty car. Handling is good, although there's a little too much under steer. Optional wider tires on bigger wheels enhance handling a bit. The brake pedal has a nice linear action.
This groundbreaking Mercedes has the styling pizzazz and performance to do well.

2002 Mercedes-Benz C230 Sports Coupe

Price
$24,950
Likes
Racy appearance. Fast. Good handling. Roomy. Comfortable.
Dislikes
Numb steering feel. Awkward seatback adjustment controls. Rubbery shifter feel.