The Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202) C 250 D, produced from June 1993 to July 1996, represented a significant step for Mercedes-Benz into the compact executive car segment. Positioned as a diesel-powered variant within the first generation C-Class (replacing the W190), the C 250 D offered a blend of fuel efficiency and practicality aimed at buyers prioritizing economy and long-distance comfort. It was a key model in establishing the C-Class as a competitor to vehicles like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, particularly in European markets where diesel engines held a strong preference. This model utilized the OM605 engine family, known for its durability and refinement, and was typically equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, though automatic options were available.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class (W202) |
| Type (Engine) | C 250 D (113 Hp) |
| Start of production | June, 1993 |
| End of production | July, 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.8 kg/Hp, 77.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm, 117.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 113 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 45.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 2800-4600 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 2800-4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 605 D 25 / 605.910 |
| Engine displacement | 2497 cm3 (152.38 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 22:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1450 kg (3196.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 480 kg (1058.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 430 l (15.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4487 mm (176.65 in.) |
| Width | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Height | 1418 mm (55.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.74 m (35.24 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15; 205/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15; 7J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the C 250 D is the OM 605 D 25, a 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilized a precombustion chamber injection system, a common technology in diesel engines of the era, designed to improve combustion efficiency and reduce noise. The OM605 series was known for its robust construction and relatively smooth operation for a diesel. The engine produced 113 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) of torque between 2800 and 4600 rpm. The five-cylinder configuration offered a good balance between refinement and power delivery. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual, providing drivers with good control over the engine’s powerband. A four-speed automatic transmission was also available, though it typically resulted in slightly reduced fuel economy and acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The C 250 D with the manual transmission offered a reasonably engaging driving experience, though it wasn’t a performance-oriented vehicle. Acceleration to 60 mph took around 14.3 seconds, and top speed was approximately 118 mph. The engine’s torque was readily available from relatively low revs, making it suitable for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, dulled the driving experience somewhat, with noticeable delays in gear changes. Compared to the more powerful C 280 or the sportier C 36 AMG, the C 250 D prioritized fuel efficiency and practicality over outright performance. The manual gearbox allowed for better control and maximized the available power, making it the preferred choice for drivers who enjoyed a more involved driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 250 D typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as a more affordable variant within the C-Class range. Standard features included power steering, central locking, and cloth upholstery. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. Interior trim was generally functional and durable, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury. The dashboard layout was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time, with a clear and concise instrument cluster. Higher trim levels offered more luxurious interior appointments, such as leather upholstery and wood trim.
Chassis & Braking
The W202 C-Class featured a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The C 250 D was equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels, along with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard, enhancing safety. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort and stability, rather than outright sportiness. The steering was a recirculating ball system, providing a reasonably direct feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 250 D was well-received in European markets, where diesel engines were popular due to their fuel efficiency and lower running costs. Critics praised the engine’s durability and refinement, as well as the car’s comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted the relatively slow acceleration compared to petrol-powered C-Class models. Compared to the C 220 D, the C 250 D offered a noticeable power increase, making it a more capable all-rounder. Against the C 280, the C 250 D offered significantly better fuel economy but lacked the petrol engine’s responsiveness. The C 250 D represented a sensible choice for buyers seeking a practical and economical compact executive car.
Legacy
The OM 605 engine family, as used in the C 250 D, has a reputation for exceptional reliability and longevity. Many examples of these engines are still in service today, having covered hundreds of thousands of miles. The W202 C-Class, in general, is considered a well-built and durable car. On the used car market, the C 250 D remains a relatively affordable option, appealing to buyers seeking a classic Mercedes-Benz with low running costs. However, potential buyers should be aware of the age-related issues common to older vehicles, such as corrosion and wear and tear on suspension components. The C 250 D stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess and its commitment to building durable and reliable automobiles.
