2004 Mercedes-Benz C230 Kompressor Sport Sedan

On the road, the C230 Kompressor Sport Sedan feels great. Power delivery is more than adequate, especially when paired with the smooth-shifting close-ratio six-speed manual transmission. Compared to a five-speed manual transmission, the six-speed's extra gear allows Mercedes engineers to narrowed the gaps between each gear and make a slightly shorter first gear for quicker acceleration from a stop, all while maintaining an overdrive sixth gear for quiet and economic highway cruising. Shift effort is low, thanks to multiple-cone synchromesh, easing cross-gate shifts from second to third and from fourth to fifth. However, for those who'd rather have the gears shifted for them, a five-speed automatic transmission is optional. The C230 will run 0 to 60 MPH in a respectable 7.6 seconds, compared with 8.2 seconds for the C240 and 6.8 seconds for the C320 Sport Sedan.


Handling is also improved on the C230 Kompressor Sport Sedan over the C240 thanks to a standard sport-tuned suspension and performance 225/45ZR17 tires wrapped around aggressive-looking 7.5 x 17-inch aluminum wheels. The result is a more crisp turn in upon entering a corner with the car feeling slightly more under control than a C240 with the 205/55R16 tires. However, with this handling advantage comes a ride that is noticeably more firm, but well within our rather conservative levels.

Thanks to a standard sport-tuned suspension and performance tires, the car feels more under control than a C240.

Besides the excellent 1.8-liter engine and other mechanical pieces, the 2004 C230 Kompressor Sport Sedan includes high-value content such as sharp-looking body upgrades including a redesigned front bumper, rear apron and sculpted side sills; modern aluminum interior trim in place of the C240's wood; and front seats with leather seating inserts that are perceptibly more rigid, yet much more supportive than the C240 seats.


Overall, the C230 Kompressor Sport Sedan's best advantage over the C240 is the exceptional value it offers. Mercedes-Benz has a long reputation of putting together sport packages that are more affordable than similar setups offered by other manufacturers. The C230 Kompressor Sport Sedan was developed with younger buyers in mind and has been configured to pique the interest of buyers who are looking to park a Mercedes-Benz sedan in their garage for well under $30,000. (www.mbusa.com)