The Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202) C 250 Turbodiesel, produced from September 1995 to July 1996, represented a significant offering in the compact executive car segment. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and refined option within the W202 range, it combined a turbocharged diesel engine with a four-speed automatic transmission. This variant aimed to provide a comfortable and economical driving experience, appealing to buyers prioritizing long-distance cruising and lower running costs. It sat in the mid-range of the C-Class lineup, offering a step up in performance and features from the base C 220 Diesel, but remaining more accessible than the petrol-powered C 280 or C 36 AMG models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class (W202) |
| Type (Engine) | C 250 Turbodiesel (150 Hp) 4G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | September, 1995 |
| End of production | July, 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 189.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1800-3600 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1800-3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 605 D 25 LA / 605.960 |
| 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 | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| 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 | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 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 | 1427 mm (56.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1499 mm (59.02 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 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 | 4 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| 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; 205/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15; 7J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the C 250 Turbodiesel was the OM 605 D 25 LA engine, a 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder diesel. This engine utilized precombustion chamber injection, a system common in Mercedes-Benz diesels of the era, known for its relatively quiet operation and good combustion efficiency. A turbocharger with an intercooler was employed to boost power output to 150 horsepower and 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) of torque. The torque curve was notably flat, providing strong pulling power from as low as 1800 rpm, making it well-suited for relaxed highway driving. The engine’s durability was a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz engineering, with many examples exceeding high mileage with proper maintenance. The 4G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a four-speed unit, was specifically calibrated to work with the diesel engine’s characteristics, prioritizing smooth shifts and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The C 250 Turbodiesel Automatic offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its petrol-powered siblings or even the manual diesel versions. While not a sports car, the turbocharger provided adequate acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in around 9.5 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in some power loss compared to a manual gearbox. The emphasis was on effortless cruising, with the engine providing ample torque for overtaking maneuvers. The relatively long gear ratios contributed to good fuel economy, but also meant the engine could feel somewhat strained when pushed hard. The rear-wheel drive configuration provided a balanced feel, although it lacked the agility of some front-wheel drive competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 250 Turbodiesel Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features for its time. This included power windows, central locking, and an AM/FM radio. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, although leather options were available. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and automatic climate control. The dashboard layout was typical of the W202, with a functional and understated design. Trim levels were relatively limited, with most variations stemming from the addition of optional packages.
Chassis & Braking
The W202 C-Class featured a robust chassis with a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The C 250 Turbodiesel was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was 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 over outright sportiness, reflecting the car’s intended role as a refined cruiser.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 250 Turbodiesel Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined engine. However, some reviewers noted the automatic transmission dulled the driving experience compared to the manual version. Compared to the C 220 Diesel, the C 250 offered a noticeable performance boost. Against the petrol-powered C 280, it traded outright speed for significantly better fuel economy. Its main competitors included the BMW 325tds and the Audi 80 TDI, both of which offered similar levels of performance and refinement.
Legacy
The OM 605 engine family, including the 2.5-liter version found in the C 250 Turbodiesel, is renowned for its durability and longevity. Many examples remain on the road today, testament to the quality of Mercedes-Benz engineering. The C 250 Turbodiesel Automatic has become a sought-after classic among diesel enthusiasts, appreciated for its blend of comfort, economy, and reliability. While maintenance can be more complex than with modern vehicles, parts availability remains relatively good. In the used car market, well-maintained examples command a premium, reflecting their enduring appeal.
