The Mercedes-Benz C-Class T-modell (S204) C 200 Kompressor with the 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission was produced from 2007 to 2009. This variant occupied a mid-range position within the S204 estate lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel economy, and comfort. It was primarily marketed in Europe as a practical and refined family vehicle, leveraging the C-Class’s reputation for build quality and technology. The “T-modell” designation signifies the station wagon (estate) body style, a popular choice in European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-Class |
| Generation | C-Class T-modell (S204) |
| Type (Engine) | C 200 Kompressor (184 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2-11.4 l/100 km (21 – 20.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4-6.6 l/100 km (36.8 – 35.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.1-8.3 l/100 km (29 – 28.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 193-198 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 2800-5000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 2800-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 271.950 |
| Engine displacement | 1796 cm3 (109.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2085 kg (4596.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605 kg (1333.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 485 l (17.13 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1500 l (52.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4596 mm (180.94 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2020 mm (79.53 in.) |
| Height | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Rear track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Front overhang | 765 mm (30.12 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1071 mm (42.17 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.84 m (35.56 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The C 200 Kompressor utilized the M271.950 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine was a key component of Mercedes-Benz’s efforts to balance performance and efficiency. The “Kompressor” designation indicates the presence of a mechanically driven supercharger, providing increased torque at lower engine speeds compared to naturally aspirated engines. The engine featured multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The supercharger, coupled with an intercooler, boosted output to 184 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 2800 and 5000 rpm. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the engine bay, driving the rear wheels.
The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission was a five-speed unit known for its smooth shifting and responsiveness. It featured a torque converter and electronic control, adapting shift points based on driving conditions and throttle input. While not as technologically advanced as some later transmissions, the 5G-TRONIC provided a comfortable and efficient driving experience for the target audience.
Driving Characteristics
The C 200 Kompressor Automatic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8.6 seconds, and top speed was limited to 139.81 mph. The supercharger provided a noticeable boost in low-end torque, making it easy to navigate city traffic and execute overtaking maneuvers. However, compared to the more powerful C 230 or C 350 models, the C 200 felt less eager to accelerate at higher speeds. The automatic transmission contributed to a relaxed driving style, but some drivers preferred the more engaging experience of the available manual transmission. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth cruising, rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 200 Kompressor T-modell typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Standard dashboard configuration included analog gauges and a multi-function display. Common optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio system, parking sensors, and automatic climate control. The trim level could vary depending on the market, but generally offered a good balance of features for the price point.
Chassis & Braking
The S204 C-Class featured an independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The suspension and braking components were tuned to suit the weight and power characteristics of the C 200 Kompressor.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 200 Kompressor T-modell was generally well-received by critics as a practical and well-built estate car. It offered a good balance of performance, fuel economy, and comfort, making it a popular choice for families. Compared to the more powerful C-Class variants, the C 200 offered lower running costs and insurance premiums. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of its rivals. Fuel economy was respectable for its class, averaging around 29 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the supercharger and automatic transmission over the long term.
Legacy
The M271 engine, including the 1.8L Kompressor variant, proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain when properly maintained. However, the supercharger can be a potential point of failure over time, requiring periodic servicing or replacement. The 5G-TRONIC transmission is also known to require fluid changes at recommended intervals to prevent issues. In the used car market, the C 200 Kompressor T-modell remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical and affordable Mercedes-Benz estate. Its reputation for build quality and refinement continues to attract buyers, making it a relatively sought-after model within the S204 range.
