The Mercedes-Benz C 300 Coupe (C205), produced from 2016 to 2018, represented a compelling entry point into the luxury coupe market, blending performance, technology, and style. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the C205 coupe lineup, it slotted between the base C 250 and the more potent C 43 AMG models. This variant was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a sophisticated and comfortable grand tourer with a respectable level of performance, rather than an outright sports car. The C300 Coupe offered a more accessible price point than its higher-performance siblings while still delivering the Mercedes-Benz experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class Coupe (C205) |
| Type (Engine) | C 300 (245 Hp) 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 143 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.1 kg/Hp, 164.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 248.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 123.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1300-4000 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 1300-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 274.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1490 kg (3284.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2045 kg (4508.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 400 l (14.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4686 mm (184.49 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2016 mm (79.37 in.) |
| Height | 1405 mm (55.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2840 mm (111.81 in.) |
| Front track | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1546 mm (60.87 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.22 m (36.81 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 13.1° |
| Departure angle | 14.5° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The C 300 Coupe was powered by the M274.920 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, featured direct fuel injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger. The turbocharger design minimized turbo lag and provided a broad torque curve. The engine produced 245 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 273 lb-ft of torque between 1300 and 4000 rpm. This power was delivered to the rear wheels via the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. The 9G-TRONIC was designed for both fuel efficiency and smooth shifting, offering a wide range of gear ratios to optimize engine performance in various driving conditions. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 9.8:1 contributed to its efficiency and responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The C 300 Coupe with the 9G-TRONIC transmission offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the C 43 AMG, it provided ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The nine-speed transmission allowed the engine to operate efficiently at lower RPMs, contributing to good fuel economy. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 5.9 seconds. The transmission’s programming prioritized smooth shifts and seamless power delivery, making it well-suited for relaxed grand touring. Compared to a manual transmission equipped C300 (not commonly offered in the US market), the 9G-TRONIC offered greater convenience and ease of use, but some driving purists might have missed the direct engagement of a manual gearbox. The C300’s suspension tuning leaned towards comfort, providing a compliant ride over most road surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 300 Coupe came standard with a generous array of features, including MB-Tex upholstery, automatic climate control, a 7-inch central display screen, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a larger 8.4-inch display screen, a premium sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. Available driver assistance features included blind spot assist, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Interior trim options ranged from aluminum to wood, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their preferences. The standard dashboard configuration featured analog gauges with a central color display, providing essential vehicle information.
Chassis & Braking
The C 205 Coupe utilized a sophisticated chassis design featuring an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. This suspension setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The C 300 Coupe was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering system employed a rack-and-pinion design, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The standard tire size was 225/50 R17, providing a good compromise between grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 300 Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its stylish design, comfortable interior, and refined driving experience. It was often compared to rivals such as the BMW 4 Series Coupe and the Audi A5 Coupe. The C 300 Coupe offered competitive fuel economy figures, averaging around 37 mpg combined. Reliability reports indicated that the M274 engine and 9G-TRONIC transmission were generally reliable, although some owners reported minor issues with the electrical system. Compared to the C 250, the C 300 offered a significant performance upgrade, while remaining more affordable than the C 43 AMG.
Legacy
The C 300 Coupe (C205) has established itself as a desirable used car, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and technology at a relatively affordable price point. The M274 engine and 9G-TRONIC transmission have proven to be durable and reliable, making these coupes a good long-term ownership prospect. The C205 generation, and specifically the C300 variant, helped solidify Mercedes-Benz’s position in the entry-level luxury coupe segment, attracting a new generation of buyers to the brand. Well-maintained examples continue to command reasonable prices in the used car market, reflecting their enduring appeal and reputation for quality.
