Does anyone know if they made a c230 2001 or newer 4 door with a 2.3 kompressor, I think the 1.8 compressor that I see on some is too small for the car but the 2.3 could be perfect combo. Any opinions on the v6 that is also installed on this model From 2001 is the newer body so it looks better than the older body style my opinion only. Looking for a car for my daughter without breaking the bank. How is the gas consumption on the v6 vs the 2.3 kompressor... Thanks.

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Thanks, Juan

Not sure I've got the exact info you want, but checkout this Pelican posting "Buying Advise - 04 C230 kompressor". Member tobybul, dated 10/23/11.

I've been interested in these cars too and noting various pieces of info whenever I run across them. Here's a couple others:

--Wikipedia search "Mercedes Benz M272 Engine"
-- " " "Mercedes Benz C Class"


Hope this helps. I remember those days of buying for a daughter with the thought of keeping them safe yet having a fun car to drive. Good luck.

thanks for the info.

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Thanks, Juan

Let us know what you find out in your search and end up deciding. As I recall from some of the posts, there were certain years of this car to own and others to completely avoid.....at least according to mbdoc.

Ive been reading and it appears that anything after 2004 is good.

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Thanks, Juan

Hmm, I have the exact opposite understanding. The earlier C230K with the 2.3 liter engine (M111?) is OK, the later C230K with the 1.8 is not. I think it is the M271 that is problematic.

The V6 cars from 2001 - 2005 use two variants of the M112 engine. I think the M112 is about the most reliable engine MB ever built. The only downside is that fuel economy is a bit underwhelming, especially with the smaller 2.6 liter six.

I like the w203 cars, they are tidy, nicely sized, and drive very well. The only common problem to be aware of is the air door in the climate control. Make certain you can direct the airflow to the windshield, dash vents, and floor, and there are no ominous noises associated with the change over. The multi-function display in the dash fades out in hot weather, but whether this is a problem or a feature I haven't yet decided...

Do you think the 3.2 is better than the 2.6. I can replace the harmonic balancer.

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Thanks, Juan

The 3.2 and 2.6 are mostly the exact same engine. The smaller displacement has a shorter stroke, but the bore, bore centers, etc. are all the same. I would buy whichever one you found in the best condition at the best price. There are a lot more C240s out there than C320s, so it is likely to be the small engine.

Edit: Harmonic balancer won't be an issue. This engine family had problems with it in the '98-'99 timeframe, but you are looking at '01 and onwards.

Thanks

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Thanks, Juan