Mercedes-Benz C-class T-modell (S202, facelift 1997) C 280 (197 Hp)


Overall Rating

7 / 10
Safety 3.0 / 5
Engine 3.5 / 5
Value 3.7 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Mercedes-Benz C-class:

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a series of compact executive cars produced by Mercedes-Benz Group AG. Introduced in 1993 as a replacement for the 190 range, the C-Class was the smallest model in the marque's line-up until the W168 A-Class arrived in 1997. The C-Class has been available with a "4MATIC" four-wheel drive option since 2002. The third generation was launched in 2007 while the current W206 generation was launched in 2021.
Initially available in sedan and a station wagon configurations, a fastback coupé variant followed and was later renamed to Mercedes-Benz CLC-Class. It remained in production until 2011 when a new W204 C-Class coupé replaced it for the 2012 model year....(Read more on Wikipedia)

T-modell (S202, facelift 1997) Overview:

Mercedes-Benz C-class (T-modell (S202, facelift 1997)). With 265 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1480 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8.5 s). The top speed reaches 230 km/h. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

C 280 (197 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Powerful V6 engine delivering strong, smooth acceleration, offering a more engaging and direct driving experience with the manual.

Fuel Economy

Higher fuel consumption, but a worthwhile trade-off for the V6 power and refinement.

Best Use Case: Enthusiast / Highway

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Refined ride comfort and interior quality
  • • Wide range of efficient and powerful engines
  • • Practical and spacious estate body style
  • • Strong build quality and durability (mechanically)
  • • Classic Mercedes-Benz styling and prestige

Cons:

  • • Prone to rust issues, especially on wheel arches and boot lid
  • • Some electrical gremlins can occur with age
  • • Maintenance costs can be higher than rivals
  • • Entry-level engines can feel underpowered
  • • Automatic transmissions can be slow by modern standards

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(W206: May, 2022 - April, 2024).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:C-class
Generation:T-modell (S202, facelift 1997)
Modification (Engine):C 280 (197 Hp)
Start of production:November, 1996
End of production:June, 2000
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:197 Hp @ 5800 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:70.4 Hp/l [275mm less]
Torque:265 Nm @ 3000-4800 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 112 E 28/112.920 More details about the engine M 112 E 28/112.920
Engine displacement:2799
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:V-engine
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
Coolant:9.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:89.9 mm mm
Piston Stroke:73.5 mm mm
Compression ratio:10:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:12.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:6.9 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 2
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:8.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:8.5 sec
Maximum speed:230 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:7.5 kg/Hp, 133.1 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.6 kg/Nm, 179.1 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:8.1 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1480
Max. weight:1970
Max load:490
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1510 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:465 l
Fuel tank capacity:62 l
Size:
Length:4516 mm mm [275mm less]
Width:1723 mm mm [101mm less]
Height:1460 mm mm [10mm more]
Wheelbase:2690 mm mm [175mm less]
Front track:1499 mm
Rear (Back) track:1464 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeCone worm with recirculation balls
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size195/65 R15
Wheel rims size6.5J x 15
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer

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