The Mercedes-Benz C 220, powered by the M111 E 22 engine and equipped with the 4G-TRONIC automatic transmission, was a key variant within the W202 C-Class range produced from September 1992 to August 1996. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it bridged the gap between the entry-level C 180 and the more performance-oriented C 280. The W202 represented Mercedes-Benz’s entry into the compact executive car segment, aiming to attract a younger demographic while maintaining the brand’s reputation for quality and engineering. This particular configuration, the C 220 automatic, was popular for its blend of reasonable performance and the convenience expected from a luxury vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class (W202) |
| Type (Engine) | C 220 (150 Hp) 4G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | September, 1992 |
| End of production | August, 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11 l/100 km (21.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 207 km/h (128.62 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 4000 rpm (154.89 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 111 E 22 / 111.961 |
| Engine displacement | 2199 cm3 (134.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89.9 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.6 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1890 kg (4166.74 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 | 1424 mm (56.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1493 mm (58.78 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.74 m (35.24 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | 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 220 was the M111 E 22 engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine was a significant departure from the older CIS-E (Continuous Injection System) fuel injection found in some earlier Mercedes models. The M111 utilized multi-port fuel injection, providing more precise fuel delivery and improved efficiency. It featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output for its displacement. The engine produced 150 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 210 Nm (155 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The 4G-TRONIC automatic transmission was a four-speed unit, known for its smooth operation but not particularly quick shifts by modern standards. It was designed for comfort and refinement rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The C 220 automatic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 10.1 seconds, which was adequate for the time but not particularly sporty. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did detract from the engine’s potential, resulting in a slightly lethargic feel compared to the five-speed manual versions. Gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and cruising comfort, rather than aggressive acceleration. The rear-wheel drive configuration provided balanced handling, but the relatively soft suspension setup prioritized ride quality over sharp cornering. Compared to the C 280, the C 220 felt noticeably less powerful, but it offered better fuel economy. Against the diesel-powered C 250 D, the C 220 provided quicker acceleration but lacked the diesel’s superior fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 220 typically came standard with features such as power windows, central locking, and an AM/FM radio. Upholstery was usually cloth, although leather was available as an option. Air conditioning was a common option, as were power-adjustable front seats. Higher trim levels could include features like a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and wood trim. The dashboard layout was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time, with a functional and understated design. Safety features included ABS anti-lock brakes, which were standard equipment.
Chassis & Braking
The W202 C-Class utilized a double wishbone suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The C 220 typically featured ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system was effective, aided by the ABS anti-lock system. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering was a recirculating ball system with hydraulic power assistance, providing a relatively light and easy steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 220 automatic was generally well-received by critics as a comfortable and refined entry-level luxury sedan. It was praised for its build quality, ride comfort, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission dulled the engine’s performance and that the car lacked the sporty character of some of its rivals. Compared to the BMW 320i and Audi 80, the C 220 offered a more luxurious interior and a smoother ride, but it wasn’t as engaging to drive. Fuel economy was competitive for its class, averaging around 21-34 mpg depending on driving conditions.
Legacy
The M111 engine, in general, proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant. The 4G-TRONIC transmission, while not known for its speed, was also generally reliable if properly maintained. Today, the W202 C 220 automatic is a relatively affordable classic car. Finding well-maintained examples can be challenging, as age and mileage have taken their toll on many vehicles. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components, corrosion, and potential problems with the automatic transmission. However, with proper care, these cars can provide years of reliable service and offer a taste of classic Mercedes-Benz luxury.
