The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a great line of mid sized entry level automobiles that was first introduced to the market in 1993. The C-Class was a replacement for the 190 series and also served as an entry level automobile which provided consumers with the most affordable Mercedes-Benz during that time. The C-Class is built in Germany in both Sindelfingen and Bremen, which began in 1993, as well as a second generation in 2000.
The first generation of the C-Class was intended to be direct competition to BMW's E36 3 Series. The 190 Series had also competed with this line of BMWs. The C-Class was well received right out of the gate and quickly became the company's best selling vehicle. The sporty style and affordability have continued to make the C-Class vehicles very popular.
The C-Class was the first Mercedes-Benz model to offer a lineup of multivalve engines. The engines ranged from a 1.8 litre to 2.2 litre. The top of the line was the C280 which offered a six cylinder engine that provided great power for such a small vehicle. In 1994 and 1995 Mercedes-Benz added a supercharged gasoline version, which was the C 230 Kompressor as well as a 250D Turbo with a 20 valve five cylinder engine. The C36 was AMG was also quite noticable with a highly tuned suspension, five speed automatic with tiptronic function as well as a 3.6 litre engine.
In 1996 Mercedes-Benz gave the C-Class a makeover that provided new lights and wheel trims. A station wagon was also added to the C-Class lineup during this time under the name T-Modell. A few engines were changed at this time as well to provide the consumer with what they were looking for.
The second generation of the C-Class began in 2000 and debuted with a more pronounced sporty look than the first generation. The front end was much steeper and the rear end was much shorter than its predecessor. The C-Class second generation was available with a variety of straight four and V6 gasoline engines as well as an increased displacement. Six speed manual gearboxes became standard in almost the whole C-Class lineup at this time.
In 2001 Mercedes-Benz added the Sportcoupe which was a three door hatchback to the C-Class. The Sportcoupe was intended to compete with the BMW 3-Series Compact, but was later removed from the lineup in 2005 due to poor sales.
The C-Class received another update in 2004 with different taillights and several new V6 engines. The new engines were available as gasoline or diesel and ranged from 2.5 litre to 3.5 litre.
Chysler plans to bring a new generation of C-Class vehicles to consumers in 2007. It's thought that the new vehicles will have an extended wheelbase and tracks, as well as a more stiff bodyshell and an overall design inspired by the S-Class. The engine will probably be a straight four or V6 with six speed manuals and 7G-Tronic seven speed may be available as well. It's thought a new wagon will be introduced by 2008.
