Not long after the 20th century turned into the 21st century, Mercedes-Benz Cars Introducing the C230 Kompressor sports coupe to the world — a slim, sexy car One reviewer called it “the best-looking two-door hatchback on the market.”
So: A coupe. A hatchback. A Mercedes car. Affordable and under 200 horsepower. Manual transmission available. Any problems here?
Good.
Some people complain that the adjective “sporty” doesn’t fit, and that the C230 coupe is too flashy and not powerful enough. In fact, the car has a rather refined aura, and 192 horsepower might have been enough two decades ago. This “sporty” coupe was never marketed as a muscle car, and in fact, it’s the opposite of one. It’s ambitious, but not in the way that a Wild horse used to be.
Perhaps Mercedes should give the C230 more time to become popular: Production of the model ended in 2007.
Why is the Mercedes-Benz C230 Kompressor a future classic?
In its five years on sale, the C230 Kompressor has attracted, among other models, younger people. Golf owners who want to upgrade their driveways to a Mercedes, and ignore the compromises. For example, rear-wheel drive. A cramped back seat. A supercharger, flashy on paper but a maintenance monster.
But did we mention it’s a Mercedes?
2002 (unrelated) BMW Cars (The C230, which bears the same name), is the lowest-priced Benz sold in the United States, starting at around $26,000. Critics were angry that a two-door hatchback undermined the brand’s “prestige quotient.” Still, buyers seemed impressed.
In sportier situations, the rear-wheel-drive coupe is made for fun driving, with 16-inch wheels and a six-speed transmission. The coupe inherits the SLK’s 192-horsepower (at 5,500 rpm) 2.3-liter supercharged four-cylinder, with upgraded fuel injection and a streamlined exhaust, both of which are said to improve low-end torque. Torque isn’t what you’d call plentiful, but it’s there low down, peaking at 200 pound-feet at 2,500 rpm.
Admittedly, the C230 was aimed at the suburbs, not the track. Enthusiasts at the time might have considered Audi TT or BMW 325Ci are more viable options (for $5,000 more), but the target audience is happy with the Benz’s halo, and clearly isn’t deterred much by the small rear seat and two doors. Plus, cargo space benefits from the hatch configuration: Open it up and fold down the rear seats, and you’ve got 38 cubic feet of storage space for a variety of things.
And its looks are undeniably handsome, a forward-leaning wedge that can withstand stares two decades after its debut. Even if potential buyers aren’t put off by the short rear end… well, it’s the front view that counts: the three-pointed star on the hood.
What is the ideal Mercedes-Benz C230 Kompressor model?
Since the C230 had a short lifespan in the US, what you see when it debuts is what you get when it disappears. Low mileage models are pretty hard to find.
The 2002 version, a variant of the CL203 Class CInitially powered by a 2.3-liter supercharged engine, from the 2004 model year onwards it was powered by a 1.8-liter supercharged inline-four, with output down slightly to 189 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 192 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm.
Since a manual isn’t fast enough, consider an automatic coupe, which typically comes with leather and starts around $28,000. The $995 panoramic sunroof option tilts and slides, helping to alleviate claustrophobia for those stuck in the back.
The interior is understated but elegant and comfortable, at least for those sitting up front. There’s also an aluminum dashboard, a leather-wrapped tilt/telescopic steering wheel, power windows, and dual-zone climate control.
There are plenty of color options and variety. Shades of red seem to suit the C230 quite well: Over the years, the Germans have offered Paprika, Bordeaux Red, and Magma Red. You might not want to check Citron Green in your search filter, though.
Be sure to check Our used car list; they can be helpful in finding a good deal. You can narrow down your options by the radius around your ZIP code, and be sure to pay attention to the deal rating on each listing to see how a car compares to others in the area.
Are there any good alternatives to the Mercedes-Benz C230 Kompressor?
The above mentioned Audi Cars and BMW should top this list. Mustang and Camaro also factored into the shopping process, especially for drivers who want a more masculine look and a more powerful powertrain.
Definitely worth considering Car GTi and Honda Accord Convertible.
