Mercedes-Benz C-class W202, facelift 1997 C 200 CDI (102 Hp) 5G-TRONIC


Overall Rating

7.4 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.0 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 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)

W202, facelift 1997 Overview:

Mercedes-Benz C-class (W202, facelift 1997). With 235 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.2 l/100km). With a weight of 1410 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 13.4 s). The top speed reaches 181 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

C 200 CDI (102 Hp) 5G-TRONIC Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

Leisurely performance, with the automatic gearbox further emphasizing its relaxed nature.

Fuel Economy

Very good fuel economy for its era, making it an economical choice for daily driving.

Best Use Case: Highway / Economical Daily Driver

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Excellent build quality and robust engineering for its age
  • • Comfortable and refined ride quality, typical Mercedes-Benz luxury
  • • Wide range of engines, from economical diesels to powerful AMG V8s
  • • Classic, understated styling that has aged gracefully
  • • Generally good reliability, though age-related issues can arise

Cons:

  • • Dated safety features compared to modern standards (no Euro NCAP rating)
  • • Petrol engines, especially V6 and V8, can be very thirsty
  • • Prone to rust in common areas (e.g., wheel arches, door bottoms)
  • • Interior technology is basic by modern standards
  • • Some parts can be expensive due to Mercedes-Benz branding

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(T-modell (S202, facelift 1997): May, 1997 - January, 2001).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:C-class
Generation:W202, facelift 1997
Modification (Engine):C 200 CDI (102 Hp) 5G-TRONIC
Start of production:May, 1998
End of production:May, 2000
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:102 Hp @ 4200 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:47.4 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:235 Nm @ 1500-2600 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:OM 611 DE 22 LA LR / 611.960 More details about the engine OM 611 DE 22 LA LR / 611.960
Engine displacement:2151
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:6 l
Coolant:8 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:88 mm
Piston Stroke:88.4 mm
Compression ratio:19:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:9.2 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.3 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:6.7 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:13.4 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:13.4 sec
Maximum speed:181 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:13.8 kg/Hp, 72.3 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:6 kg/Nm, 166.7 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:12.7 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1410
Max. weight:1890
Max load:480
Fuel tank capacity:62 l
Size:
Length:4516 mm [Same length.]
Width:1723 mm [Same width.]
Height:1427 mm [33mm less]
Wheelbase:2690 mm [Same wheelbase.]
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 typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeG-TRONIC
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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