Mercedes-Benz C-Class 94-96 buyers guide

There was something off-putting about the 180E Mercedes produced before the C-Class was launched in 1994.  It had the star on the bonnet, but the rest just didn't seem to make the Mercedes grade.

Thankfully, Mercedes corrected the situation with the C-Class.  The 180E was clearly a car for the masses, even if the asking price meant the masses had to be quite well-heeled to have any chance of getting behind the wheel.

But something about it suggested Mercedes had cut a few too many corners to get the price down as far as it did.  Anyone accustomed to the level of equipment that usually comes with the three-pointed star would have been shocked to find it had wind-up windows, vinyl seats and a seriously underpowered engine.

The C-Class was a different story.  It was an important new model in the new generation of Benz cars, one that delivered the traditional Mercedes quality in a much more affordable package without the compromises of its predecessor.  If the 180E left you feeling like a wannabe Benz owner, the C-Class made you feel like a paid-up member of the club.

Model Watch

The C-Class had to overcome some resistance when it first came out, such was the poor reputation that had built up around the 180E.  Build quality was high, as you'd expect of a car costing almost $60,000 or more in 1994, performance was much improved and there was enough fruit to satisfy most Benz owners.

Though there was nothing particularly striking about the C-Class styling, it has stood the test of time and still looks current and classy 10 years after it was launched.  A compact sedan, the C-Class offers comfortable seating for four. It can take five, but three across the back seat would be a little uncomfortable.

Power for the C-180 entry level model came courtesy of a 1.8-litre, double overhead camshaft, four-valve, fuel-injected four-cylinder engine that put out 90kW at 5500 revs and 170Nm at 4200 revs.

When the right pedal was pressed deep into the carpet it would reach 100km/h in about 12 seconds while racing through the standing 400m sprint in little more than 18 seconds.

They're reasonable times, but achieved through relatively short gearing and top-end power.  As a result the mid-range is a little lacking so it feels a little lethargic when not pushed hard.

Standard transmission was a five-speed manual with floor shift, but most were delivered with the optional four-speed, or later five-speed, automatic.  Underneath, the C-Class has double wishbone front suspension with a multilink independent rear suspension.

Isolation from bumps and potholes in the road is superb, and it doesn't come at the expense of handling, which is well balanced and precise.  Add to that four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and power steering that is well-weighted and a nice road feel, and the C-Class is a pleasure to drive.

At launch, Mercedes offered two levels of trim, the base Classic and the better-equipped Elegance.  The Classic had cloth trim, air-conditioning, central locking, power front windows, power mirrors, rear headrests and driver's airbag.

From November 1997, it also had cruise, a passenger airbag and a five-speed auto.  The Elegance added dual airbags, CD player, leather steering wheel, wood trim and power rear windows. It was replaced by the C200 Elegance in 1997.

From November 1994 a sporty Esprit model also appeared, with bright coloured seat inserts and lowered suspension.  As was the Elegance, the C180 Esprit was replaced by the C200 model.

On the Lot

The three-pointed star came at a price when the C-Class was new and it still commands a higher price than its closest rivals.  A 1994 Classic can be had for about $22,000, a later 2000 model will cost up to $42,000.

An Elegance from 1994 will be up to $24,000, one from 1996 up to $33,000.  Esprits from the same years will be about $21,000 and $30,000 respectively.

In the Shop

Mechanics report few problems with the C180.  The only problem of note mentioned is the heater fan on cars after 1996. Because it is run all the time it can burn out, and replacement costs about $800.

There are reports of some failures of the air-mass meter on cars that have covered 150,000 to 200,000km. That will cost $2500 for a factory replacement, $1500 for a rebuilt one.

Look for a service record from a Merc dealer or recognised specialist service agent and inspect closely for signs of crash damage, such as colour mismatches, poor panel fit and variable body gaps.

The bottom line

Well-built, well-equipped and very competent compact sedan with all the prestige of the Benz brand, but comes at a price.