Used Mercedes-Benz C-Class review: 2007-2010

Mercedes-Benz built an enviable reputation based on safe, solid, comfortable and reliable prestige cars, but in recent times it has had to add another element to its appeal: excitement.

NEW

It was no longer enough to appeal to an exclusive clientele who appreciated being part of a small club able to afford the prestige and luxury that came with the three-pointed star, the company simply had to broaden its appeal if it wanted to survive in a anew demanding world. To achieve its aims it first introduced smaller models, like the C-Class, then over time made them more affordable for younger buyers and also made them more engaging to drive.

That brings us to the new generation W204 introduced in 2007, which came in sedan and wagon forms, with a choice of three equipment levels, Classic, Elegance and Avantgarde, and petrol and diesel engines. Mercedes-Benz styling has always been on the conservative side, and the same could be said for the new model in 2004. Its lines were clean, fresh, and attractive, but still understated.

Compared to the previous model the W204 was longer and wider, had a wider track and a stiffer body. All of that translated into greater room in the front, although the headroom in the rear was tight. There was reasonable storage room inside, while the boot was generous, and it had a full-sized spare wheel.

The base engine was a supercharged 1.8-litre four-cylinder, which delivered decent performance, but anyone wanting more oomph could sign up for the 3.0-litre V6. For those looking for more economy had the choice of two turbo-diesel engines, a 2.1-litre four and a 3.0-litre V6. Mercedes-Benz cars have never been renowned for their driver engagement, they've tended to be more remote, leaving the driver feeling cossetted, but feeling disengaged.

The new C-Class addressed that issue with a much more driver involvement, while still retaining much of the appeal of a 'Benz. The seats were firm, but supportive, the ride supple and comfortable, the difference was in the handling. Despite the comfortable ride, which soaked up bumps with ease, it displayed great grip levels with little body roll, and cornered with aplomb. As you expect there was heaps of standard equipment, plus lots of options if you could afford them, and the safety was first class.

NOW

There is little to worry about with the C-Class, it seems there is nothing major that goes wrong with them on a regular basis. It's important to check for a service record to make sure that your chosen car has been properly maintained. That doesn't necessarily mean a dealer should have serviced it, as many owners seek out independent specialists to do their work.

Independent servicemen who specialise in Mercedes-Benz are able to provide expert service at a more affordable rate, and they are also usually able to source parts, often factory original components, at a real saving. It's also worth having your chosen car inspected by a mechanic who knows the brands and particularly knows their foibles.

Check for oil leaks around the engine and transmission, observe for knocking noises when driving the car, and particularly test for erratic and rough shifting from the automatic transmission. There has been some concern about the automatic transmission, and regular servicing is considered wise to avoid problems.

SMITHY SAYS

Nice blend of comfort and sportiness, with the prestige of a three-pointed star. Reward yourself.

Mercedes-benz C-Class 2007-2010
Price new: $56,990 to $92,800
Engine: 1.8-litre 4-cyl supercharged, 135kW/250Nm; 2.1-litre 4-cyl turbo-diesel, 125kW/400Nm; 3.0-litre V6, 170kW/300Nm; 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel, 165kW/510Nm
Transmission: 5-speed auto, 7-speed auto, RWD
Economy: 8.0L/100 km (1.8SC), 6.8L/100 km (2.2 TD), 9.5L/100 km (3.0 V6), 7.4L/100 km (3.0 TD)
Body: 4-door sedan, 4-door wagon
Variants: C200 Kompressor (Classic, Elegance, Avantgarde), C220 CDi (Classic, Elegance, Avantgarde), C280 (Elegance, Avantgarde), C300 (Elegance, Avantgarde), C320 CDi (Elegance, Avantgarde)
Safety: 5-star ANCAP

COMING UP

Do you own a BMW 5-Series? If so tell us what you think of it by sending your comments to Graham Smith at grah.smith@bigpond.com or Carsguide, PO Box 4245, Sydney, NSW, 2010.