SecondHandSense:THE MERCEDES C-Class produced from 2000-2007 moved away from the older boxy model and adapted the more attractive and flowing lines and profile of the bigger E-Class. It is also a comfortable car to drive - although the lack of rear space is a main disadvantage - and well equipped.
The car was revised in 2004 and the gearshift, which had been a point of criticism for its notchiness, was improved. The diesel versions are 2.0-litre and 2.2-litre with direct fuel injection. Neither is absolutely quiet and both take a bit of time to warm up. Cruising is when they are at their best because they can be a bit cumbersome for city driving. Ride and handling are good and rear-wheel-drive may eliminate some valuable space in the rear floor area, but it does guarantee satisfying handling.
The interior is well finished and there is a nice compact feeling about the car. Instruments are large and clear and everything is where you want it. Climate control is standard and the boot is also a good size, although total capacity could not be described as over generous as the rear seats don't fold flat.
Mercedes has had its share of quality control problems in the earlier part of this decade and early models have had some serious problems, mostly with electronics.
With the diesel models, there have been problems with the sensor on the diesel particulate filter. This caused power loss on some 60,000 cars and they were recalled in 2006.
Other cars have had problems with rear seat belts having faulty locks.
The C-Class achieved a five star rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests in 2004, which was a very good result and a class-leading one.
A 2004 Elegance model with a 2.0-litre diesel engine and a full range of equipment including leather upholstery, alloys, metallic paint, multiple airbags and 127,000km on the clock has an asking price of €26,950.
A similar model with the 2.2-litre engine and 60,000km has an asking price of €36,500.