The Mercedes-Benz C 240 V6 4MATIC, produced from July 2002 to March 2004, represents a compelling blend of luxury and all-weather capability within the W203 C-Class range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it catered to buyers seeking a step up from the base C230 Kompressor while providing a more accessible entry point into the six-cylinder C-Class models compared to the C320. This variant combined a naturally aspirated 2.6-liter V6 engine with a five-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, offering a refined driving experience and enhanced traction. The W203 C-Class, launched in 2000, aimed to modernize the compact executive segment for Mercedes-Benz, moving away from the more conservative styling of its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class (W203) |
| Type (Engine) | C 240 V6 (170 Hp) 4MATIC |
| Start of production | July, 2002 |
| End of production | March, 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 16 l/100 km (14.7 US mpg, 17.7 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 267 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 228 km/h (141.67 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 108.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 153.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 4500 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 112.916 |
| Engine displacement | 2597 cm3 (158.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89.9 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 68.2 mm (2.69 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1565 kg (3450.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2120 kg (4673.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 455 l (16.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4541 mm (178.78 in.) |
| Width | 1728 mm (68.03 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1980 mm (77.95 in.) |
| Height | 1422 mm (55.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1493 mm (58.78 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.76 m (35.3 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, 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 R 16 91 V |
| Wheel rims size | 7 J x 16 H 2 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the C 240 V6 4MATIC is the M112.916 engine, a 2.6-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine utilizes a three-valve-per-cylinder (two intake, one exhaust) single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine’s architecture is notable for its smooth operation and relatively high specific output for a naturally aspirated engine of its era. The five-speed automatic transmission (typically the 722.6) was a standard feature, chosen for its comfort and ease of use. This transmission features torque converter lockup for improved fuel efficiency at cruising speeds. The 4MATIC system employs a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, providing enhanced traction in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The C 240 V6 4MATIC offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 170 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.5 seconds, and top speed was electronically limited to 141.67 mph. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, resulting in a slightly less responsive feel compared to the manual transmission options available in other C-Class models. The 4MATIC system provided noticeable improvements in handling and stability, particularly on slippery surfaces. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of fuel economy and drivability, prioritizing smooth cruising over aggressive acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 240 V6 4MATIC typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, power windows and locks, a multi-function steering wheel, and an audio system. Upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Optional extras included a sunroof, premium audio systems, heated seats, and parking assistance features. The interior design was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time, emphasizing quality materials and a functional layout. Trim levels were relatively simple, with most options being added individually rather than bundled into distinct packages.
Chassis & Braking
The W203 C-Class featured an independent suspension system at all four corners. 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 of ride comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The chassis was designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, with a focus on safety and comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C 240 V6 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics as a capable and comfortable all-weather luxury sedan. It was praised for its smooth engine, refined ride, and the added security of all-wheel drive. However, some reviewers noted that its performance wasn’t as engaging as that of the sportier C320 or the more fuel-efficient C230 Kompressor. Fuel economy was average for its class, with combined figures around 21 mpg. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the automatic transmission and the electronic systems. Compared to the C320, the C 240 offered a lower price point but sacrificed some performance. Compared to the C230 Kompressor, it provided more power and a smoother driving experience but at the cost of slightly higher fuel consumption.
Legacy
The C 240 V6 4MATIC, while not the most sought-after variant of the W203 C-Class, remains a relatively reliable and affordable entry point into Mercedes-Benz ownership. The M112 engine is known for its durability, and the 4MATIC system continues to provide valuable traction in inclement weather. In the used car market, these models are often found with reasonable mileage and are appreciated for their comfortable ride and understated luxury. Maintenance costs are generally moderate, although sourcing parts for older Mercedes-Benz models can sometimes be challenging. The C 240 V6 4MATIC represents a solid and dependable choice for buyers seeking a well-built and comfortable compact executive sedan.
