The Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sport Coupe (CL203) facelift, specifically the C 200 Kompressor with a 163 horsepower engine and automatic transmission, was produced from 2004 to 2008. This variant occupied a middle ground within the CL203 lineup, offering a balance between performance and affordability. It represented a key offering for Mercedes-Benz in the compact executive coupe segment, particularly in European markets where three-door coupes held significant appeal. The facelift brought styling updates and refinements to the original CL203, enhancing its modern appeal and addressing some earlier criticisms.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class Sport Coupe (CL203, facelift 2004) |
| Type (Engine) | C 200 Kompressor (163 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.1-12.7 l/100 km (19.4 – 18.5 US mpg, 23.3 – 22.2 UK mpg, 8.3 – 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5-6.7 l/100 km (36.2 – 35.1 US mpg, 43.5 – 42.2 UK mpg, 15.4 – 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5-8.9 l/100 km (27.7 – 26.4 US mpg, 33.2 – 31.7 UK mpg, 11.8 – 11.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 202-212 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 231 km/h (143.54 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.7 kg/Hp, 115.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 170.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 90.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 3000-4000 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 3000-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 271.940 |
| 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 | 9.5:1 |
| 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) |
| Coolant capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1935 kg (4265.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 310 l (10.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1100 l (38.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4343 mm (170.98 in.) |
| Width | 1728 mm (68.03 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1957 mm (77.05 in.) |
| Height | 1406 mm (55.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear track | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Front overhang | 788 mm (31.02 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 840 mm (33.07 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.76 m (35.3 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| 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 M271.940 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine was a significant departure from previous Mercedes-Benz four-cylinder designs, featuring all-aluminum construction for reduced weight. The “Kompressor” designation indicates the presence of a mechanically driven supercharger, providing increased torque at lower engine speeds. This supercharger, coupled with multi-port fuel injection, allowed the engine to produce 163 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque between 3000 and 4000 rpm. The engine employed a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The automatic transmission was a five-speed unit, designed to provide smooth shifts and optimized fuel efficiency. This transmission was a common choice for buyers prioritizing comfort and ease of driving over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The C 200 Kompressor Automatic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as sporty as the manual transmission or higher-powered variants like the C 320, the supercharger provided adequate acceleration for everyday driving. The 0-60 mph time of around 8.9 seconds was respectable for its class. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in some power loss compared to the manual. Gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and comfort, rather than aggressive acceleration. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a balanced feel, although it lacked the all-weather capability of all-wheel-drive models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 200 Kompressor typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, and a basic audio system. Upholstery was usually cloth, although leather options were available. The facelift models often included upgraded interior trim and improved infotainment systems. Optional extras included sunroof, upgraded audio systems, navigation, and sport packages that added features like sport seats and suspension upgrades. The specific trim level could vary depending on the market and individual customer choices.
Chassis & Braking
The CL203 Sport Coupe featured an independent suspension system at all four wheels. The front suspension utilized McPherson struts with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear employed a multi-link setup, also with a stabilizer bar. This configuration provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The chassis was designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, prioritizing comfort and safety over outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 200 Kompressor Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and comfortable entry point into the C-Class range. It offered a good balance of performance, fuel economy, and features. Compared to the more powerful C 320, it was less expensive and more fuel-efficient, but lacked the same level of performance. The 1.8L Kompressor engine was known for its reliability, although the supercharger did require periodic maintenance. Fuel economy figures of around 27.7-26.4 US mpg combined were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The M271 engine family, including the 1.8L Kompressor, proved to be relatively reliable, although preventative maintenance, particularly regarding the supercharger and timing chain, is crucial for long-term durability. Today, the CL203 C 200 Kompressor Automatic represents an affordable entry point into Mercedes-Benz ownership. While not a performance icon, it offers a comfortable and stylish driving experience, and well-maintained examples can still provide years of reliable service. The car’s relative simplicity compared to modern vehicles makes it a popular choice for enthusiasts who enjoy working on their own cars.
