What do some meber think of the C220
 

1997 models too about 2002 models I guess.
Such as gas mileage?
Reliability?
other?

Thank you

What do some members think of the C220 1997 >
 

1997 models too about 2002 models I guess.
Such as gas mileage?
Reliability?
other?

Thank you

Agent Smith,

I don't believe there was a C220 in 1997. The C220 (W202 chassis) premiered along with the C280 in 1995, and in 1997 was uprated to the C230 -- same horsepower, a bit more torque.

Mine was a good car until its early-model electronic transmission began to misbehave. I got about 23 mpg in 70/30 city/highway driving. The A/C compressor needed replacing at 60,000 miles, and there was the tranny issue, of course. Otherwise, it was quite reliable, fun to drive, and easy to change the oil on.

I think the W202 chassis was replaced by the W203 in 2001. Anybody?
.

There was a thread on this basic subject recently. MB Doc liked the 97. I thought maybe the 98, 99 were a little better.

Here is the thread:

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=198537

Mike

C220 was only made '94-'96.
Great little car ..if you can find one .
Replaced w/C230..not as good and early trans were problems

We had a '95 for four years. No problems except the air mass sensor and the biodegradable wiring harness around 85K. These items were expensive, and are well-known failures in this car, so it is worth checking to see if they have been done.

Whenever I search the various MB forums I find a lot more
posts from people complaining about mechanical problems with their C230 than C220. Sort of gives credence to the urban
legend that MB quality dropped off after 1995.

No matter what anyone says, in all likelihood you will be fine with a 5-speed automatic model c230, 97 and up. Just have the adaptation values checked (for wear limits, etc - also nice that you can actually check something like that, since it is an electronic trans :) ). The extra gear makes cruising a hell of a lot quieter and more economical, not to mention you don't have a slug (94-96 had 2nd gear start, which you can override with a switch on 97-up). I had a lot of repairs done on mine because it was under warranty and I chose to be picky (as an insurance policy for post-warranty life). At 164k miles and counting, the only things that have ever left the car undriveable were transmission conductor plate (warranty for me, $300ish if you have to pay for it), air flow sensor, $300ish, plug wires, $120ish, and a water pump most recently, $350 installed. For 11 years and 164k miles, I don't think $1000 in repairs over a span of 3 years and 80k miles is too shabby, and certainly no more than a less-enjoyable 94-06 model with the 4-speed auto.

Personally, I think a well sorted 2000 C280 would be the pick of the litter. The 722.6 trans is good by then, and the harmonic balancer troubles have been solved by a recall.

You also get ESP, side bags, and a slighty updated interior/exterior.

It is possible to find well cared for one-owner 2000 models, where pre 96's are increasingly becoming multiple owner cars with low prices that discourage attention to service and repair.

Yeah, and a C280 Sport being a really nice and pretty rare ride. If I weren't in a hurry to buy something, that's what I would search for.