Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate (96-01) - Review

Review by Parkers on
This excellent compact executive estate makes an fine introduction to Mercedes ownership and is a faithful family workhorse. Those high standards of engineering, finish and driver satisfaction don't come cheaply. C-Class may have become realively common, but the Estate is more sought after and there are fewer on the market so prices remain stronger than for the Saloon. Bought as much for its prestigeous image as for its practicality there are bigger estate about but few feel as special.
3.5 out of 5

Performance

Refined and plenty of choice - from non-turbo C220 D and C250 D, turbo-diesel C220 CDi and C250 TD, plus petrol engines C180, C200, C220, C230, C240 V6, C280, C280 V6 and the supercharged C230 Kompressor.

4 out of 5

Handling

Gives composed handling and plenty of grip even in the wet, doesn't encourage sporty driving as much as the 3-Series BMW but feels more relaxed. Sport versions have harder suspension.