The Mercedes-Benz C-Class provides an affordable path to Mercedes-Benz ownership without sacrificing the appeal of the brand's imagery and stylish appearance. Like every Mercedes-Benz, the C-Class comes equipped with what may well be the brand's most desirable feature--the three-pointed star.
Mercedes-Benz introduced the C-Class in 1994 as a replacement for the 190E, the original "Baby Benz." A much more contemporary automobile, the new compact sedan was styled to resemble the brand's premium offerings, and it offered more interior space than its predecessor. Engine choices included a 2.2-liter four and a 2.8-liter six.
While the performance of the new C-Class wasn't in the same league as a top-of-the-line 3 Series BMW, it carried the Mercedes prestige. And with the introduction of a 302-horsepower, V-8-equipped AMG version in 1995, it got some ponies to go with that prestige.
The second version of the C-Class landed in U.S. showrooms in time for the 2001 model year. A number of new versions were added to the lineup, including a C320 wagon and a supercharged C230 Kompressor coupe. Mercedes' proven 4Matic all-wheel drive system was offered on sedans and wagons, and the AMG C55 got a 362-horsepower V-8.
Completely redesigned for the 2008 model year, today's C-Class automobile looks even more like the pricier Mercedes models than did the previous C-Class automobiles. Horsepower numbers have gone upscale as well, with the standard offering producing 228 horsepower. Continuing a segmentation that began with the first C Class, the car is now available in Sport and Luxury versions, broadening its market coverage. The AMG version is now even more potent, with a 451-horsepower V-8 putting it into the same league as the M3 BMW--fast company indeed.
