The Mercedes-Benz C 200 Kompressor, produced from April 2004 to March 2007, was a key variant within the W203 facelifted C-Class range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it aimed to balance performance and fuel efficiency with the convenience of an automatic transmission. This iteration of the C-Class, internally designated as the W203, represented a significant update to the original model, addressing earlier criticisms regarding build quality and refinement. The C 200 Kompressor with the automatic gearbox was particularly popular in markets where driver convenience was prioritized, offering a comfortable and relatively economical entry point into the premium compact executive segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-class |
| Generation | C-class (W203, facelift 2004) |
| Type (Engine) | C 200 Kompressor (163 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 2004 |
| End of production | March, 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 12.8 l/100 km (18.4 US mpg, 22.1 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 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 | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1965 kg (4332.08 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 | 740 kg (1631.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4526 mm (178.19 in.) |
| Width | 1728 mm (68.03 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1980 mm (77.95 in.) |
| Height | 1426 mm (56.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1476 mm (58.11 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 the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 V |
| Wheel rims size | 7 J x 16 H 2 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the C 200 Kompressor was the M271.940 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine was a significant departure from previous Mercedes-Benz four-cylinder designs, utilizing all-aluminum construction for reduced weight. The “Kompressor” designation indicated 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 featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The automatic transmission paired with this engine was a five-speed unit, designed to provide smooth and comfortable gear changes. This transmission was not known for its sportiness, prioritizing refinement over rapid shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The C 200 Kompressor Automatic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the supercharger provided adequate acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 8.9 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did detract from the overall driving engagement compared to the available manual transmission. Gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising, rather than aggressive performance. The engine felt responsive in everyday driving situations, with the supercharger providing a noticeable boost in power when needed. However, it lacked the outright punch of the larger-displacement engines offered in the C-Class range.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C 200 Kompressor Automatic typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, and a basic audio system. Upholstery was generally cloth, although leather options were available. Higher trim levels could include features like sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and automatic climate control. The interior design was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time, emphasizing quality materials and a functional layout. Optional extras included navigation systems, parking sensors, and various cosmetic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The W203 C-Class featured an independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t as sharp-handling as some of its competitors. The C 200 Kompressor was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over outright handling, making it well-suited for everyday driving.
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 230 Kompressor or C 320 models, the C 200 Kompressor was less expensive but also offered less performance. The diesel-powered C 220 CDI was a popular alternative, offering superior fuel economy. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the supercharger and automatic transmission over the long term.
Legacy
The M271 engine family, including the 1.8-liter variant found in the C 200 Kompressor, proved to be relatively durable. However, the supercharger could be a potential source of maintenance issues as the vehicle aged. The automatic transmission, while reliable, could require servicing to maintain smooth operation. Today, the W203 C-Class, including the C 200 Kompressor, represents an affordable entry point into Mercedes-Benz ownership. Well-maintained examples are still relatively common on the used car market, offering a comfortable and reliable driving experience for those seeking a classic Mercedes-Benz.
