Mercedes-Benz C-Class (2001-2007) W203

The Mercedes C-Class is a compact luxury coupe, sedan, and wagon that has been in production since the first generation Mercedes W202 in 1993. For the second generation W203, much of the engines and drivetrains were carried over from the previous generation. Exterior styling was inspired by its larger E-Class and S-Class siblings with the front fascia being a hit or miss with the public.

The base C 160 received a 1.8L supercharged 4-cylinder engine that produced 120 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque. Higher trims such as the C 230 and C 320 were powered by 2.5L and 3,2L naturally aspirated V6 engines that made 201 horsepower and 181lb-ft of torque and 215 horsepower and 229lb-ft of torque.

For the very first time in C-Class history, the W203 offered a 3-door hatchback variation called the C 230 Kompressor. The Kompressor name was added to indicate the fact that it was powered by a 2.3L supercharged inline-four engine making 192 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. The Kompressor hatchback was a one shot, not making it to the newer Mercedes W204 generation.

For the 2005 model year, the W203 went through a mid-model refresh that saw changes to the front and rear fascia. Inside the cabin, the C-Class received updated gauges and audio systems, even Bluetooth connectivity and Apple iPod integration for the very first time. The top performing C 55 AMG debuted the same year, sporting a powerful 5.4L naturally aspirated V8 engine that put down 362 horsepower and 376lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels via a 5-speed automatic transmission.