The Mercedes-Benz C-Class T-modell C 240 2.6 V6 with the 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, produced from March 2000 to January 2001, represents a refined offering within the S202 facelifted generation of the C-Class estate. This variant occupied a mid-range position in the lineup, bridging the gap between the more economical four-cylinder models and the performance-oriented C36 AMG. It was primarily marketed in Europe as a practical yet luxurious family vehicle, offering a blend of space, comfort, and respectable performance. The S202 series, introduced in 1996, was Mercedes-Benz’s first entry into the compact executive estate segment, and the C 240 V6 aimed to provide a more sophisticated alternative to rivals like the BMW Touring and Audi Avant.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class T-modell (S202, facelift 1997) |
| Type (Engine) | C 240 2.6 V6 (170 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | March, 2000 |
| End of production | January, 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.4 l/100 km (16.3 US mpg, 19.6 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.7 kg/Hp, 114.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 162.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 4500 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 112 E 26 / 112.950 |
| Engine displacement | 2597 cm3 (158.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89.9 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 68.2 mm (2.69 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4516 mm (177.8 in.) |
| Width | 1723 mm (67.83 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1499 mm (59.02 in.) |
| Rear track | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The C 240 T-modell was powered by the M112 E 26 engine, a 2.6-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine was a significant departure from the earlier inline-six engines used in the C-Class, offering improved smoothness and refinement. The M112 featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design per cylinder bank, three valves per cylinder (two intake, one exhaust), and a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produced 170 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit, was standard. This transmission was known for its smooth shifts and adaptive learning capabilities, adjusting shift points based on driving style. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive configuration were typical for Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era.
Driving Characteristics
The C 240 T-modell with the 5G-TRONIC transmission offered a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 9.6 seconds, and top speed was limited to 215 km/h (133.59 mph). While not a sports car, the V6 engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered smoother operation but slightly reduced responsiveness. The 5G-TRONIC’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency and comfort rather than outright performance. The automatic transmission did diminish some of the engine’s potential, especially when compared to the more driver-focused experience of the manual gearbox available in other C-Class variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 240 T-modell typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Upholstery was usually cloth, but leather was available as an option. Optional extras included a sunroof, heated seats, automatic climate control, and upgraded audio systems. The interior design was typical of Mercedes-Benz, emphasizing quality materials and a functional layout. The facelifted S202 models (post-1997) featured revised interior trim and updated switchgear compared to the pre-facelift versions.
Chassis & Braking
The C 240 T-modell utilized a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The rear suspension incorporated a stabilizer bar to reduce body roll. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The steering was a hydraulic power-assisted recirculating ball system, offering a relatively direct feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 240 T-modell was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and refined estate car. It offered a good balance of space, comfort, and performance. Fuel economy was reasonable for a V6 engine, averaging around 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg). Compared to the four-cylinder C 180 or C 200 models, the C 240 offered significantly more power and refinement. However, it was more expensive to purchase and operate. Compared to the higher-performance C 36 AMG, the C 240 prioritized comfort and fuel efficiency over outright speed. The C 240’s automatic transmission was often praised for its smoothness, but some reviewers noted that it could feel slightly sluggish in certain situations.
Legacy
The M112 engine family, including the 2.6-liter version found in the C 240, proved to be relatively reliable. With proper maintenance, these engines can last for many years. The 5G-TRONIC transmission is also generally durable, although like any automatic transmission, it requires regular fluid changes. Today, the S202 C-Class T-modell, particularly the C 240 variant, is gaining popularity among classic Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts. These vehicles are often sought after for their combination of practicality, comfort, and build quality. Finding well-maintained examples can be challenging, but they represent a compelling alternative to more modern estate cars.
