![]() But the climate control worked quickly and effectively. No indicator points to exactly where the temperature is activated. Temperature is adjusted by a thumb-wheel and is split for each side of the cabin. Two twist knobs control air-flow and fan speed. As in other Mercedes Benz models, it’s easy to hit the stalk accidentally. A second, smaller left-hand stalk activates the cruise control. The stalks are also normal, with turn signals to the left, wipers to the right. The headlights are activated with a simple twist knob. Gauges were typical Mercedes - clear and easy to read. Other rear-seat amenities include an armrest with integrated cupholders and a first-aid kit. The rear seatbacks are nicely reclined and headrests ensure passen ger safety. Rear seat room was sufficient for two passengers, three if they’re really friendly. Finding a comfortable position behind the wheel was easy, despite the fact that the wheel didn’t adjust. The driver’s side seat is eight-way power adjustable the passenger-side adjusts manually. The front bucket seats are firm and comfortable, although after a couple hours in the saddle, you’ll find them a little too firm. New standard equipment on the C230 includes leather seat inserts (full leather is an option) and a new audio system that integrates radio and cellular phone controls into one unit. The car also features Brake Assist, a system that detects an emergency braking situation and applies the brakes more quickly and with more force than the driver. The front passenger-side air bags are deactivated when a BabySmart-compatible seat is detected. Of course, safety is always a high priority with Mercedes, so you’d expect front and side, door-mounted air bags, not to mention ABS and tract ion control. For that sum, your Mercedes will get larger 16-inch wheels, performance tires (205/55R16), leather front sport seats, an even firmer suspension and a telescoping steering wheel. Road noise was a little high as was tire noise on concrete surfaces.Īlthough the test vehicle wasn’t equipped with it, enthusiasts will want their C230 with the optional $890 Sport Package. The upside is cornering was great - the car handled the twisties as if it was riding on rails. The ride never became punishing, but this vehicle is not for those who like a soft ride. The ride was firm, revealing the pitiful state of most roads in Pennsylvania. The recirculating ball, power-assisted steering was responsive and direct, steering the car exactly where it was pointed. A good performance for a rear-drive automobile. Although the electronic stability program isn’t offered, the car never fishtailed, even in wet weather. ![]() Braking was excellent in all kinds of weather, with short straight stops. Traction control is standard as is four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes. Power is fed theough a five-speed automatic transmission that adopts its shifts to suit the driver’s driving style. With the exception of the engine noise, you’ll forget you’re driving a four. Power is well-controlled, with full power available closer to highway speeds. While not the quietest engine ever encountered, it lends the car a sporty edge. The engine initially seems every bit of four-cylinders, but the crankshaft-driven supercharger kicks in with a hearty whine and lots of power. It also makes this car a real alternative for someone looking for a car in the low 30s price range, something that couldn’t be said of its predescessor. That’s only 0.1 second slower than the more expensive six-cylinder model. Zero to 60 now takes a mere 8.1 seconds, two seconds quicker than last year and closer to other cars in this class. You’d expect double-overhead cams and four valves per cylinder, but it’s the Eaton supercharger with an intercooler that adds the oomph. The numbers: 185 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque from a 2.3-liter in-line four-cylinder engine. That translates into a 37 horsepower increase and 38 pound-feet of torque increase. Thankfully, this year the standard engine comes from Mercedes Benz’s SLK coupe. When it debuted last year, the underpowered C230 came with a mere 148 horsepower, less than a Nissan Altima. After having redone its entry-level line for 1998, you’d think the folks at Mercedes Benz would leave well enough alone for their most affordable sedan, the C230.īut with increasing competition in the near-luxury class - those cars with base prices from $30,000 to $40,000 - the folks at M-B addressed one of the C230s biggest deficits: power.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |