The Mercedes-Benz C 200 CDI, produced between May 1998 and May 2000, was a variant of the W202 C-Class following the 1997 facelift. This model represented Mercedes-Benz’s entry into the compact executive diesel market, offering a fuel-efficient and relatively affordable option within the C-Class range. Positioned as a more economical alternative to the petrol-powered C 200 and C 230 Kompressor models, and below the more powerful C 250 Turbo-Diesel, the C 200 CDI aimed to appeal to buyers prioritizing fuel economy and practicality. It utilized a relatively new common-rail diesel technology for the time, offering improved refinement and performance compared to older indirect injection diesel engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class (W202, facelift 1997) |
| Type (Engine) | C 200 CDI (102 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | May, 1998 |
| End of production | May, 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg, 30.7 UK mpg, 10.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.8 kg/Hp, 72.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 166.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 47.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 235 Nm @ 1500-2600 rpm (173.33 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 611 DE 22 LA LR / 611.960 |
| Engine displacement | 2151 cm3 (131.26 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.4 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 19:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1890 kg (4166.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 480 kg (1058.22 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4516 mm (177.8 in.) |
| Width | 1723 mm (67.83 in.) |
| Height | 1427 mm (56.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1499 mm (59.02 in.) |
| Rear track | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission 5G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The C 200 CDI was powered by the OM 611 DE 22 LA LR engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine was a significant step forward for Mercedes-Benz, utilizing common-rail direct injection technology. This system, supplied by Bosch, allowed for more precise fuel delivery and higher injection pressures, resulting in improved combustion efficiency, reduced noise, and lower emissions compared to older diesel designs. The engine featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit, was the only transmission option available for this variant. This transmission was known for its smooth shifting and adaptability to different driving conditions. The engine produced 102 horsepower at 4200 rpm and 235 Nm (173 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 2600 rpm.
Driving Characteristics
The C 200 CDI Automatic offered a comfortable, albeit not particularly sporty, driving experience. The 5G-TRONIC transmission was programmed for smooth, relaxed shifts, prioritizing fuel economy over rapid acceleration. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 12.7 seconds, and top speed was limited to 112.47 mph. The relatively low horsepower and torque figures meant that overtaking maneuvers required careful planning. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the C 200 CDI, the automatic offered less driver engagement but greater convenience. It also felt slightly slower due to the transmission’s inherent efficiency losses. The torque delivery, however, was quite usable, providing adequate pulling power for everyday driving situations.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 200 CDI typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment, reflecting its position as a mainstream model. Standard features included power windows, central locking, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather options were available at extra cost. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and alloy wheels. The dashboard layout was typical of the W202 C-Class, with a functional and straightforward design. Trim levels were relatively limited, with most customization options revolving around individual accessories rather than distinct packages.
Chassis & Braking
The C 200 CDI utilized the standard W202 C-Class chassis, featuring a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension with a stabilizer bar. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride, although it wasn’t as sporty as some of its competitors. The steering was hydraulic power-assisted, offering reasonable feedback and ease of use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 200 CDI was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option within the C-Class range. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and relatively low running costs. However, it was also criticized for its lack of outright performance compared to the petrol-powered models. Compared to the C 250 Turbo-Diesel, the C 200 CDI offered lower running costs but significantly less power. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with the C 200 CDI achieving around 35.1 US mpg in combined driving, making it an attractive option for high-mileage drivers. Reliability was generally good, although the common-rail injection system required careful maintenance to prevent issues.
Legacy
The C 200 CDI, while not the most sought-after C-Class variant today, represents an important step in the development of modern diesel technology. The OM 611 engine proved to be relatively durable, and many examples are still on the road today. However, age and mileage can lead to issues with the fuel injection system and turbocharger. In the used car market, the C 200 CDI is often valued for its affordability and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers. Its relatively simple mechanicals, compared to later C-Class models, also make it appealing to those who prefer to work on their own cars.
