Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sports Coupé (01-08) - Review

Review by Dan Harrison on
The C-Class Sports Coupe is an attractive alternative to the BMW 3-Series Compact - or more recently the BMW 1-Series. It was a bit if a break of tradition for Mercedes-Benz when it was launched in 2001. It was the first time that there had been a coupe in the line-up. It’s still a fresh-looking design, good to drive and has the kind of cachet three-pointed star buyers crave. As such it commands surprisingly high values on the used market. Even early, tatty examples will set you back more than you may expect.
4 out of 5

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4 out of 5

Performance

A wide range of petrol and diesel engines kicked off by the C160. Its performance doesn’t match the sporty looks and appeals only to buyers on a tight budget. The C180K is the first engine worthy of the car and, with its supercharged performance, can be quite fun. C200K and C230K petrol engines are there for drivers looking for more urge. K stands for Kompressor, which is the German for supercharger. As you can imagine all three of the 'K' engines pull sweetly. Unlike the saloon and estate there’s no ultra-quick C55 in the Sport Coupe line-up. Diesels are the C200 CDI and C220 CDI. Both offer a refined drive, loads of power and useful fuel economy. All cars get a six-speed manual gearbox, with the exception of the C350, which gets a seven-speed auto unit. A five-speed auto is optional others.

4 out of 5

Handling

It’s not quite a sports car on the road, but is still good to drive, whether on country roads or the motorway. Around town it can feel a bit cumbersome with heavy steering and a firm ride, but it never strays from being comfortable. When it is pushed, body control is tight and the Sports Coupe corners well.

  • Moving Exterior Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sports Coupé (01-08)
  • Moving Exterior Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sports Coupé (01-08)
  • Moving Exterior Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sports Coupé (01-08)

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