W201: you have god tier taste in classic cars W202: you like rust, or you're broke W203: you want a reliable car that doesn't stick out W204: you like big engines and style W205: you like being the center of attention W206: you overpaid for a W205 facelift Those are pretty much the stereotypes for C-Class owners here in Germany.
My first car was a w203 200 kompressor, not very fast, but still was fun. 18 year old going 220kph on the highway all day on my way to uni. Surprisingly economical and stable
So right, they have like some kind of heritage from old ones but with a new design. They make my head turn whenever I see a clean well looked after one.
That thing rusted worse than Opels. My best friend uncle had 250td and it rusted away. Also it was extremely cramped inside. Rear leg room was non-existent. Audi A4 B5 had more leg room and thats a small car on the inside. W204 is undeniably the best overall C-Class.
W202 C220 was our family's first (used) Mercedes when I was in high school, and I still love it. Currently my parents (now in their 70s) drive the last new car they brought - a W203 C180K - it has well over 250.,000km on the clock.
@@cmpunk8546 is gonna get more numbers on the dashboard maybe even 500k if u will take care of it ..mine is a c 180 TDI and has more than 450k+ and as I know old clk s are as durable as they can be
For me, the W203 was the best built C Class ever but only the facelift version. My dad has a W203 C220 CDI with 320,000kms on and it is rock solid, tows a 1200kg caravan twice a year over 3000kms in one trip, has zero rattles and the interior still looks brand new. I had a facelift W204 C180, and I absolutely hated it. The ride was awful and the build quality was very poor. At 28,000kms, it rattled like a bucket of bolts. The ride quality and refinement was even worse than the W203. My dad's W203 drove smoother, quieter and the seats were far more comfortable. The 204 had hard plastic in places where the 203 had soft touch. And the 203 had excellent details and quality. for example: 1) The 203 has a roller shutter type thing behind the steering wheel where it goes in and out of and up and down while the 204 has a cheap piece of vinyl like material to close the gap 2) The 203 has rubber seals all the way down the front of the front doors and even at the bottom of the doors where a lip would go perfectly into a groove on the door sill with another piece of rubber inside (this probably explains the fact that it is quieter with less wind and road noise) 3) The 203 centre armrest is softer and the sides of the centre console is soft touch plastic and not hard like the 204 4) The 203 has a beautiful piece of plastic cover in which the spare wheel sits so you don't see the metal beneath. The tools sit in a plastic compartment which screws in to the hollow of the spare. The spare even has an extra set of wheel nuts attached to it in a plastic holder. The warning triangle feet is also very hefty and solid feeling metal unlike the cheap thin one used in the 204. 5) The 203 main door seals are covered in fabric so they never stick or make a noise and look very high quality. The 204 is just plain exposed rubber like every other car. 6) If you knock on the panels of the 203 it has a solid sound to it versus the 204, 205 and cheaply made 206. 7) Other little details like the wipers stopping when you open the driver's door was ingenious on the 203 and not carried over in to their cars subsequent to that generation. This is just some of many small examples having owned the 204 and 203. I wanted to replace my 204 with a 205 but the 205 build quality is simply horrendous. It had nowhere near the level of build and material quality of the 203. Many that I went to test drive had cracking centre armrests and the button to open the split armrest was peeling (the metal look on them was peeling). Most had the glossy black centre console all of which held up so badly showing many micro scratches. These had less than 100,000kms. Completely unacceptable. Everything also felt hollow, brittle and cheap to operate. Even worse is the new 206. While it looks great, the interior is so sparse in the base model it just looks and feels cheap. I was shocked to see that the entire bottom half of the doors and dash (including the glovebox door) is entirely hard plastic. Cheap city car plastic. What a far cry from the soft dense materials of the 203. The engines of the 206 scream like hair dryers when revved and sounds unrefined. Window switches feel brittle and cheap. All the switch gear does not have a consistent feel. In the 203, all the buttons had the same high quality push feel to it and were all consistent. In the 206, some buttons are clicky, some are mushy and some are capacitive. It seems engineers no longer build Mercedes but accountants do. Cost cutting wherever they can while covering it in a thin veneer of what they think is technology. This is why the 203 C Class was the best they ever made. It truly had S Class levels of details and build quality in a smaller package all while still being modern and having that solid Mercedes, German quality feel. I miss Mercedes as they once were.
As a pre- facelift w203 owner with only 96k miles on the odometer, I strongly agree. My mother had a w202, and while that's a great car, the w203 is more refined in every way. I think the w203 is the most underappreciated and underestimated C-Class generation.
W202 will always have my heart, that said my W203 C55 with 6 speed is a car I’ll never sell and I do plan to own W204 C63 eventually! Great video as always!
Man, if only my C209 CLK 55 had a 6-speed manual lmao it probably changed your C55 entirely! That sounds like a sick ride(and not common!). 6-Speed Manual?
As a W202 C43 and C230K owner, i have fallen in love with these cars. They give the styling of the 90s and the robustness of the class Mercedes-Benz era. Regardless of the the Chrysler partnership.
My 2014 W204 is all that and also hella reliable, never had a problem with transmission or drivetrain. It's as bullet proof as one can expect from the star logo!
I’ve owned 203,204,205 and I think I agree with your ranking. The 204 overall is my favourite , the 205 was brilliant tech wise and all the track modes etc but the 204 was just a beautiful combination of true raw literage and modern car feel
W204 is a most beautiful car i have ever seen. but W202 & W201 are just different. My dad bought a W202 straight from Germany , and its still working like a factory new one, OM604 is basically indestructible even though its been more than 23 years. i am from Georgia and 9 out of 10 man drives 202 here and i can only say 1 word about W201......Incredible
W204 is my favorite as I am biased I still drive a 2014 W204 as my daily driver and it's almost bullet proof as far as craftsmanship goes. I have many chances to trade in but I never seriously considered it and was recently thinking of another German luxury brand trade in but that also didn't last long. This car is just perfectly designed!
@@victon460 yeah agreed...just old mercedes cars were built to be used daily and as needed..."even 2014 ones are old nowadays" my first car is W202 bur for sure my next one gonna be W204 "I hope its gonna be C63, but any will go"
My 204 AMG has only had two parts replaced in 12 years. One water pump and a sensor on the gas pedal. Its fantastic to drive. and the most reliable car I have had.
I wish Mercedes didn't discard the striped rear lights graphics. I think they can still look cool if modernized in a certain way. A unique Merc design que signature imo
I'm seeing a lot of love for the 204. I own two of them. Bought the first , a coupe, about six years ago, and have had no issues. Bought a 2012 wagon about a year ago and, aside from an unpleasant day 1 repair bill, it's also been a dream.
Almost a decade of owning my 2014 W204 and although technology has advanced since then, I'm still not giving her up. W2014 was the last great C class design, performance and modern appointments.
i had a w203 180 compressor with amg sports . last year 2022 i sold it to my son as i could no longer get in and out of it (i am 72). with 64,000 kms on the clock it will do him for many years.
I recently got a 30-year old (1993 model) W201 190e. Very happy about it. Newer ones feel like you're riding a car. The W201 feels like you're driving a car. The W201 is the best, indeed. At 300k++ kilometers on its odometer, I recently drove it to my mountainous hometown 500kms without any problems.
I've owned a w202, w203, w204 and I've driven several w205's and I, by far LOVE my w204. Its such a good mix of classic solid mercedes quality with a touch of modern amenities and just enough technology to still be useful day to day. The W202 charmed me though, I LOVED the very simple understated looks and interior, and the w203 was quite fun but something always broke on it. The w205's are cool but I don't know if I would want to own one long term, I personally prefer the boxier benzes.
Thanks for vid..i'm from Edinburgh Scotland and last 6 years own a 39000 genuine mile 2006 C180 Kompressor Coupe but 'Evolution' model...so quite rare ...
The 204 is a revolutionary generation and brilliant design. It is this gen Mercedes started to attract young drivers and the first time able to compete with BMW in this section.
Had a lot of experience with the C Class over the years. My dad previously owned a W201 190D, a W202 C200, a W203 C220 cdi, and a W203 320 cdi. I currently run a 2003 W203 C200 Kompressor. Great car. Love it.
I have now owned 6 W202 and I absolutely love this generation. The build quality and reliability is unmatched. It was WAY ahead of its time. Its almost like a baby W140. Even today it drives flawlessly and makes a fantastic daily driver. Fuel consumption is absolutely comparable to modern cars (I drive it with 7,5 L / 100km or 31,6 mpg). It was so unfortunate that this model had terrible rust problems. Otherwise this would be a car for literally eternity.
@@ibradeybunch Very good engine. The M112 is bulletproof! However the fuel consumption is not the best. I think 13-14L/ 100km is realistic. Maybe a little bit less.
Fully agree with this list, i thought the 204 would be on top, but when i saw you rated it 2nd i already knew the incredible 201 is king, love the hell out of bruno sacco designs.
As a W203 owner, I 100% agree with this list. That said, the W203 is still a brilliant car. It's quite comfy for a C class and it's very stable at higher speeds. It's also very reliable, no matter the engine. The only things I dislike about it are the front end and headlight design on the pre-facelift model and the heavy steering at low speed.
As always, a thorough collection of undisputable facts. However, personally, will always adore the W204 the most. Not only it looks the best (from launch), it's the pinnacle of AMG theatre. Even the civilian versions were pretty much perfect, come to think of it...
@@Corvolet5you don't see them in Germany because they got sold to other countries, where they are still plowing along today. This isn't dicing w203 wich are equally champs
I totally agree with your ranking and I even Own a C250 Turbo Diesel w202 amazing car to drive for long and confy travels with no issues and really reliable, I love it.
Owned a 205, 201 and 202. My favourite is the 202, they're just at that sweet spot of classic and technology whilst still being built like tanks, just unfortunately they rust a bit too much after MY1994. The 204 is always going to be iconic with that 6.2L engine but I'm really not a fan of the M156, I'd rather have the M113K E55 AMG if I wanted a uber AMG from that kind of era.
Yep, my '99 C180's sunroof leaked like a sieve, rusted like an 70s Japanese car. I've just covered the whole roof with vynil wrap for now till I can get the roof panel replaced, fortunately I know a guy.....
owned a c63 w204 facelift, so with the mct 7 speed. the car had the sound, the looks, and the fun behind the wheel. but I'm glad I swapped it for the m113k - in an SL55. tbh the 5.4 supercharged V8 is not as loud, and not as high revving, and the 5 speed is a bit slow, but it is so much more daily driveable, and boy once the supercharger kicks in its SO MUCH FUN. I enjoy it much much more, also the c63 had a terrible ride quality, the seats were horrendous. it's only fun for the weekend. I'd get a standard w204/c204 350 rather than the c63, if I'd have to get one again.
@@matteiasm.3618 what didn't you like about the seats? Personally it's one of my favorite things about the car, the only thing I don't like about them is they're only heated and not cooled. 😖
Great video. The W202 and W203 generations are some of my all time favorite C-Class models. And even more so in AMG form. But I love any and all C and E Class sedans. I’ve _never_ been into S-Classes, or Mercedes station wagons (and I’m a major wagon fan) but the C and E Class sedans are some of my fav Sedans. They age well visually. They feel solid. Just can’t go wrong.
I highly recommend doing a video on the top AMG Mercedes SUVs since AMG made some good offerings before the recent crossover/SUV craze of the past 8 years
For reliability, probably the W204. For looks, I'd go for my W205, but I know I'm in the minority. For power, the W206 is the obvious answer. But for sound, it's the W204. 3.0L V6 in the 300 and the big 6.2L V8 in the 63. The good old days.
I’ve got the c400 specifically, /c450/c43 with the M276 DELA 30. I was wondering if you could do a review on the engine. It’s been hard to find in-depth information about it. W205 is it for me, best styling, interior, sound system, tech. That’s obviously a product of a newer car, but it’s still the best. Looks wise, they were able to compliment a soft/medium and aggressive look into the car, and it’s not too ANGULAR. This duality makes it the best blend of luxury and sporty(with simple aftermarket options)
Love videos like this that take a backward glance at some of our favourite AMG Cars. How about a similar series for the often overlooked SLK AMG range?
My favourite: W203 facelift C220 CDI with OM646. Best balance of power and fuel consumption. Also very very long lasting engine. a million km is possible here. W204 also had in the beginning the OM646 Evo but with bad injectors then replaced with OM651 which has some issues (smaller fragile chain built in the backside of engine pain in the ass to change), TLDR: W205 W204 too complex, W203 before facelift W202 W201 rust issues
There's been 3 W204 in my family, early C300 and late C250 and C350. Not a single one gave us any issue, by far the most reliable not only as a Mercedes but most reliable car period. Now that I can finally afford C63 all the available ones has been molested and just impossible to find a good example.
I can’t disagree with your list but I am partial to the W204. I’ve had two of them, a new 2009 with the P30 package and carbon fiber trim and more recently a nice used 2011 with the P31 package, locking diff and carbon fiber trim. They were more fun to rip around in then the W212 E63s I’ve had (M156 and M157).
As far i understand the W202 C55 was not a standard model offered by Mercedes. The history of this car is super obscure and interesting, and it is not documented as well as i would want it to be. If you bought a C43 you had the option to special order from AMG to have your car converted to a C55. And this i think was offered only in 99' and 00', but even if you had a 98 c43 you could still do this. A lot of parts were changed and taken from the w210 E55, not only the engine. And as far as i know you had to pay a lot of money to AMG if you wanted this. Only 59 true C55 W202 exist, 30 LHD, 29 RHD, and only 7 were Wagons. Truly a unicorn car and its not nearly talked about as it deserves. If i saw one in public i would probably pass out. There is currently one i can find for sale and its in Poland. Asking price is 100k€ As far as the C-Class goes i currently own a 1999 W202 C180 Wagon and i cannot describe how much i love this car. Yea its not fast but its comfortable and extremely reliable, and very fuel efficient.
Definitely not a standard model but it's still listed as its own model in the Mercedes archive like the C32 Sports Coupe. It's interesting that it lists a conversion price of 57,420 DM for the C55 if you had your C43 converted. mercedes-benz-publicarchive.com/marsClassic/en/instance/ko/C-55-AMG-station-wagon--S-202-E-55-1998---2000.xhtml?oid=5566
Re the 202 I agree, my '99 C180 just goes and goes. Recently did the cylinder head, and despite what many think, they are easy cars for the DIY type to work on, the M111 engine is practically indestructrable
I agree with your rankings, but I still love my W205 C43 wagon for the daily driver. Not sure why the AWD doesn't get more respect, great rwd bias yet can still get me to the mountains. Head and shoulders above Audi and even the recent BMW wagons.
I love my C32 to death, it may not be the best C Class but I put it above the 201 and 204 in terms of styling. In my opinion the 204 was just too sharp in its design, and the 201 was a product of its time, but the 203 has timeless curves and shapes to itself. And I disagree on the interior as well, maybe build quality was a slight step down during the Daimler-Benz era but the design has held up incredibly well to me. The center console in its waterfall design is seen in the 205, holding the two side by side shows that and it’s aged much better in terms of looks compared to a 220 or 211 for that matter in my eyes. I personally think the 203 AMGs are the sweet spot for daily driver ownership as you get great performance in a simple easy to work on package that doesn’t catastrophically fail as the M112K and M113 engines paired to the 722.6 trans were bulletproof in most areas, especially in comparison to the M156 of the 204. Are they the best at anything? Not really but it’s a safe choice for a compact super sedan.
I own W202 C55 (LHD) in Japan. Love W202. i used to own w202 c36 before c55. V6 engine is smooth. AMGmeister,do you know exact count of w202 c55 sedan Mercedes made in the wrold? Ex owner said, Mercedes-Benz made a special order offer to a few VIP.And i heared there was 12 W202 C55 in Japan.
Personal favorite will always be the w204 but can't disagree with your reasoning behind the rankings and all are truly special. Would be great to see videos that rank the E and S-classes!
Lucky enough to own a W204 C63 AMG, absolute monster of a machine and I’ve yet to do anything to it - quite an investment piece at the moment so I’m being careful 😂
About 10 years ago I had a chance to buy a 202 C55 in upstate South Carolina. It was really cheap, it needed a good bit of work, had 125,000km, but ran and drove. I really couldn't find out much about it at the time.. and really thought it was something this euro guy had put together. He worked at Michelin and was going back to France and was taking a new Z06 Vette at Michelin's expense. I have thought about that damn thing on and off for ever.
No matter how much I try to believe that I'm is good or even better, the moment I just see a bend I realise nothing beats the best. The best or nothing Oh I'm so in love with all these cars Especially that c63s w204 1 door with wide body kit
Technically, you could say the 201 is not a C-class (in name) but the 124 was not an E-class until they flipped the badge around. The 201 "birthed" the category for MB, so should be included, just like the Audi 80 can be considered the forerunner the A4 and the E21 3-series that was actually a coupé, gave rise to the (sub) compact executive saloon segment.
W202 should be at the bottom just for the nearly catastrophic crash test results (i sadly knew someone who died crashing it). The w201 is nowhere near the newer models, forget the nostalgia or the durability. The w204 amg with its 6.2 l NA V8 is simply the best.
Just bought my first Benz a c220cdi 2013 with 14000 miles backed with a 11 Merc services high spec and in immaculate condition throughout hopefully going to have her for while …
W204 for me!
It's not even an argument
Without question.
love mine!
@@mannyfreitas5563 same
Best of all.
W201: you have god tier taste in classic cars
W202: you like rust, or you're broke
W203: you want a reliable car that doesn't stick out
W204: you like big engines and style
W205: you like being the center of attention
W206: you overpaid for a W205 facelift
Those are pretty much the stereotypes for C-Class owners here in Germany.
My first car was a w203 200 kompressor, not very fast, but still was fun. 18 year old going 220kph on the highway all day on my way to uni. Surprisingly economical and stable
nothing surprising in a small car with a small engine being... economical.
@@anastassiosperakis2869 really? Because its actually not economical, I have it.. 10.5L in a city
The W203 is my favourite its classic yet modern, beautiful car.
So right, they have like some kind of heritage from old ones but with a new design. They make my head turn whenever I see a clean well looked after one.
w202's are really good cars no matter what engine you have in them, they are bulletproof, amg versions will probably start rising in value soon
Lol they are complete junk.
@@Columbo777 clown 🤡🤡🤡🤡
@@minefarmer202 they are rust buckets…feel free to live in your deluded world 😂
That thing rusted worse than Opels. My best friend uncle had 250td and it rusted away. Also it was extremely cramped inside. Rear leg room was non-existent. Audi A4 B5 had more leg room and thats a small car on the inside. W204 is undeniably the best overall C-Class.
@@Columbo777 the e36 is the world's rustied rust bucket clown 🤡
W202 C220 was our family's first (used) Mercedes when I was in high school, and I still love it. Currently my parents (now in their 70s) drive the last new car they brought - a W203 C180K - it has well over 250.,000km on the clock.
agree... W202 and C class in general are greatest cars
My CLK 200K which has the same engine as the C180K just hit 250.000 yesterday.
@@cmpunk8546 is gonna get more numbers on the dashboard maybe even 500k if u will take care of it ..mine is a c 180 TDI and has more than 450k+ and as I know old clk s are as durable as they can be
For me, the W203 was the best built C Class ever but only the facelift version. My dad has a W203 C220 CDI with 320,000kms on and it is rock solid, tows a 1200kg caravan twice a year over 3000kms in one trip, has zero rattles and the interior still looks brand new.
I had a facelift W204 C180, and I absolutely hated it. The ride was awful and the build quality was very poor. At 28,000kms, it rattled like a bucket of bolts. The ride quality and refinement was even worse than the W203. My dad's W203 drove smoother, quieter and the seats were far more comfortable. The 204 had hard plastic in places where the 203 had soft touch. And the 203 had excellent details and quality. for example:
1) The 203 has a roller shutter type thing behind the steering wheel where it goes in and out of and up and down while the 204 has a cheap piece of vinyl like material to close the gap
2) The 203 has rubber seals all the way down the front of the front doors and even at the bottom of the doors where a lip would go perfectly into a groove on the door sill with another piece of rubber inside (this probably explains the fact that it is quieter with less wind and road noise)
3) The 203 centre armrest is softer and the sides of the centre console is soft touch plastic and not hard like the 204
4) The 203 has a beautiful piece of plastic cover in which the spare wheel sits so you don't see the metal beneath. The tools sit in a plastic compartment which screws in to the hollow of the spare. The spare even has an extra set of wheel nuts attached to it in a plastic holder. The warning triangle feet is also very hefty and solid feeling metal unlike the cheap thin one used in the 204.
5) The 203 main door seals are covered in fabric so they never stick or make a noise and look very high quality. The 204 is just plain exposed rubber like every other car.
6) If you knock on the panels of the 203 it has a solid sound to it versus the 204, 205 and cheaply made 206.
7) Other little details like the wipers stopping when you open the driver's door was ingenious on the 203 and not carried over in to their cars subsequent to that generation.
This is just some of many small examples having owned the 204 and 203. I wanted to replace my 204 with a 205 but the 205 build quality is simply horrendous. It had nowhere near the level of build and material quality of the 203. Many that I went to test drive had cracking centre armrests and the button to open the split armrest was peeling (the metal look on them was peeling). Most had the glossy black centre console all of which held up so badly showing many micro scratches. These had less than 100,000kms. Completely unacceptable. Everything also felt hollow, brittle and cheap to operate.
Even worse is the new 206. While it looks great, the interior is so sparse in the base model it just looks and feels cheap. I was shocked to see that the entire bottom half of the doors and dash (including the glovebox door) is entirely hard plastic. Cheap city car plastic. What a far cry from the soft dense materials of the 203. The engines of the 206 scream like hair dryers when revved and sounds unrefined. Window switches feel brittle and cheap. All the switch gear does not have a consistent feel. In the 203, all the buttons had the same high quality push feel to it and were all consistent. In the 206, some buttons are clicky, some are mushy and some are capacitive.
It seems engineers no longer build Mercedes but accountants do. Cost cutting wherever they can while covering it in a thin veneer of what they think is technology.
This is why the 203 C Class was the best they ever made. It truly had S Class levels of details and build quality in a smaller package all while still being modern and having that solid Mercedes, German quality feel. I miss Mercedes as they once were.
As a pre- facelift w203 owner with only 96k miles on the odometer, I strongly agree. My mother had a w202, and while that's a great car, the w203 is more refined in every way. I think the w203 is the most underappreciated and underestimated C-Class generation.
I absolutely agree with your accurate analysys
W202 will always have my heart, that said my W203 C55 with 6 speed is a car I’ll never sell and I do plan to own W204 C63 eventually! Great video as always!
6 speed that’s so badass
Man, if only my C209 CLK 55 had a 6-speed manual lmao it probably changed your C55 entirely! That sounds like a sick ride(and not common!). 6-Speed Manual?
C63 507 Edition coupe is just timeless imho! Best C (AMG) ever made
That lovely raw V8 sound that comes out of the M156 on that version is just 👌🏾...I totally agree with you
As a W202 C43 and C230K owner, i have fallen in love with these cars. They give the styling of the 90s and the robustness of the class Mercedes-Benz era. Regardless of the the Chrysler partnership.
I love my 99 C230k w202
I wish to get a C43 AMG ... tell me ur expérience ?
My W202 C220 built 1995 has been my daily used car now at 232,000 k.m. and still runs like new. Like it !!!
With 232 000 km it is still new😉
W204 ftw, Looks modern and elegant yet sporty
My 2014 W204 is all that and also hella reliable, never had a problem with transmission or drivetrain. It's as bullet proof as one can expect from the star logo!
until u park it by w203
W202 no doubt
Even to this day i am still excited when i see a clean c43 amg ❤
W203 the last generation of true mercedes
W204, I’ve owned two and work for a dealership. I’ve had hands on time with all of them.
What does that mean? Sorry didn’t understand. I’ve been wanting to get a 204 (c300/350). They reliable?
@@chiefhere1968 Yes, any powertrain option in the W204 is decently reliable. Mercedes Benz current day is absolute garbage.
@@peytonwalker8050 Thank you for your input! 🤝
I’ve owned 203,204,205 and I think I agree with your ranking. The 204 overall is my favourite , the 205 was brilliant tech wise and all the track modes etc but the 204 was just a beautiful combination of true raw literage and modern car feel
Still driving my 2014 W204 and glad I kept it over the W205 as it cannot touch the last great era from W204.
I bought my kids a 2011 C300 each last year 😁
@@MrRjnr nice - the 300’s great, my sister had one 👍🏼👍🏼
W204 is a most beautiful car i have ever seen. but W202 & W201 are just different. My dad bought a W202 straight from Germany , and its still working like a factory new one, OM604 is basically indestructible even though its been more than 23 years. i am from Georgia and 9 out of 10 man drives 202 here
and i can only say 1 word about W201......Incredible
W204 is my favorite as I am biased I still drive a 2014 W204 as my daily driver and it's almost bullet proof as far as craftsmanship goes. I have many chances to trade in but I never seriously considered it and was recently thinking of another German luxury brand trade in but that also didn't last long. This car is just perfectly designed!
@@victon460 yeah agreed...just old mercedes cars were built to be used daily and as needed..."even 2014 ones are old nowadays" my first car is W202 bur for sure my next one gonna be W204 "I hope its gonna be C63, but any will go"
My 204 AMG has only had two parts replaced in 12 years. One water pump and a sensor on the gas pedal. Its fantastic to drive. and the most reliable car I have had.
I wish Mercedes didn't discard the striped rear lights graphics.
I think they can still look cool if modernized in a certain way.
A unique Merc design que signature imo
I'm seeing a lot of love for the 204.
I own two of them.
Bought the first , a coupe, about six years ago, and have had no issues. Bought a 2012 wagon about a year ago and, aside from an unpleasant day 1 repair bill, it's also been a dream.
I owned 2 until one got wrecked by a sleeping driver. Still have the manual transmission one. They are beautiful
Sold my 203 for 204, biggest mistake ever! 203 is superior.
Almost a decade of owning my 2014 W204 and although technology has advanced since then, I'm still not giving her up. W2014 was the last great C class design, performance and modern appointments.
I drive the w204 c280 AMG.. Broe what a car.. Gives u style and respect from the massis
i had a w203 180 compressor with amg sports . last year 2022 i sold it to my son as i could no longer get in and out of it (i am 72). with 64,000 kms on the clock it will do him for many years.
going to say it again, hands down one of the best channels for benz and the best commentary!
W202 C280 Elegance, was our first car, i will never forget that emotions🔥🔥🔥
As owner of both W201 190E 2.3-16 and W204 C63. I agree with your list.
I love the w202 very reliable and very 90s looking amazing amg!
I recently got a 30-year old (1993 model) W201 190e. Very happy about it. Newer ones feel like you're riding a car. The W201 feels like you're driving a car. The W201 is the best, indeed. At 300k++ kilometers on its odometer, I recently drove it to my mountainous hometown 500kms without any problems.
I've owned a w202, w203, w204 and I've driven several w205's and I, by far LOVE my w204.
Its such a good mix of classic solid mercedes quality with a touch of modern amenities and just enough technology to still be useful day to day.
The W202 charmed me though, I LOVED the very simple understated looks and interior, and the w203 was quite fun but something always broke on it. The w205's are cool but I don't know if I would want to own one long term, I personally prefer the boxier benzes.
My 2014 W204 will always be my favorite daily driver. Bought it almost a decade ago and continue to drive it with LOVE after all these years!
I liked it when the Benz's had sharp lines and squared off shapes. New ones are just bulbous and round and don't look as aggresive.
I own a red w204 C63 sedan and non car people always ask me if it's new and think I'm rich lol. Truly one of the best statement cars ever
Thanks for vid..i'm from Edinburgh Scotland and last 6 years own a 39000 genuine mile 2006 C180 Kompressor Coupe but 'Evolution' model...so quite rare ...
The 204 is a revolutionary generation and brilliant design. It is this gen Mercedes started to attract young drivers and the first time able to compete with BMW in this section.
Agreed drives brilliant
W204 🔥 stylish n sturdy
w201 and w204 legendary cars :) w201 2.3-2.5 v16 for drift, w204 for drag races and fun
Had a lot of experience with the C Class over the years. My dad previously owned a W201 190D, a W202 C200, a W203 C220 cdi, and a W203 320 cdi. I currently run a 2003 W203 C200 Kompressor. Great car. Love it.
I have now owned 6 W202 and I absolutely love this generation. The build quality and reliability is unmatched. It was WAY ahead of its time. Its almost like a baby W140. Even today it drives flawlessly and makes a fantastic daily driver. Fuel consumption is absolutely comparable to modern cars (I drive it with 7,5 L / 100km or 31,6 mpg). It was so unfortunate that this model had terrible rust problems. Otherwise this would be a car for literally eternity.
I’m planning on getting a w202 c280 v6 model. Have you had any experiences with that model? What’s the fuel consumption like for that?
@@ibradeybunch Very good engine. The M112 is bulletproof! However the fuel consumption is not the best. I think 13-14L/ 100km is realistic. Maybe a little bit less.
@@JustinsSupercars Thank you
@@ibradeybunchmy 99 c280 gets very good gas mileage I’d say probably 27 mpg on the highway
@@ibradeybunchI have the c280 I6 model, very reliable, fun to drive. I get around 10l/100km combined on Autobahn and City
I think that w203 is by far the best c class ever because of its timing, its in the sweet spot era just before mercedes started cheeping out
Fully agree with this list, i thought the 204 would be on top, but when i saw you rated it 2nd i already knew the incredible 201 is king, love the hell out of bruno sacco designs.
W203 c55 ❤️
totally underrated, a great car
As a W203 owner, I 100% agree with this list.
That said, the W203 is still a brilliant car. It's quite comfy for a C class and it's very stable at higher speeds. It's also very reliable, no matter the engine. The only things I dislike about it are the front end and headlight design on the pre-facelift model and the heavy steering at low speed.
I own a W203 C180 compressor. It runs great, has 126800km. In the 12 years I have driven it, I have only replaced gear selector and front shocks
As always, a thorough collection of undisputable facts. However, personally, will always adore the W204 the most. Not only it looks the best (from launch), it's the pinnacle of AMG theatre. Even the civilian versions were pretty much perfect, come to think of it...
Your listing is very accurate, but I feel the W202 should be number 2, as it distinctively stands out for durability and reliability.
Yeah w202 is so reliable they were taxis. It's the work horse of the c class. Also in 94 the w202 won a dtm championship if I'm not mistaken!
So reliable you barely see them on the road anymore, yeah. For every 202 I see at least 5 or 6 203's in Germany
@@Corvolet5you don't see them in Germany because they got sold to other countries, where they are still plowing along today. This isn't dicing w203 wich are equally champs
I have a c55 and a w210 e55 and had a w211 e55. The c55 fit and finish is ok but I just love it’s agility and power.
I love my C55. Made to cross europe !
I totally agree with your ranking and I even Own a C250 Turbo Diesel w202 amazing car to drive for long and confy travels with no issues and really reliable, I love it.
Owned a 205, 201 and 202. My favourite is the 202, they're just at that sweet spot of classic and technology whilst still being built like tanks, just unfortunately they rust a bit too much after MY1994.
The 204 is always going to be iconic with that 6.2L engine but I'm really not a fan of the M156, I'd rather have the M113K E55 AMG if I wanted a uber AMG from that kind of era.
Totally agree... the C63 W204 will skyrocket in price soon enough
Yep, my '99 C180's sunroof leaked like a sieve, rusted like an 70s Japanese car. I've just covered the whole roof with vynil wrap for now till I can get the roof panel replaced, fortunately I know a guy.....
owned a c63 w204 facelift, so with the mct 7 speed. the car had the sound, the looks, and the fun behind the wheel. but I'm glad I swapped it for the m113k - in an SL55. tbh the 5.4 supercharged V8 is not as loud, and not as high revving, and the 5 speed is a bit slow, but it is so much more daily driveable, and boy once the supercharger kicks in its SO MUCH FUN. I enjoy it much much more, also the c63 had a terrible ride quality, the seats were horrendous. it's only fun for the weekend. I'd get a standard w204/c204 350 rather than the c63, if I'd have to get one again.
@@matteiasm.3618 what didn't you like about the seats? Personally it's one of my favorite things about the car, the only thing I don't like about them is they're only heated and not cooled. 😖
Your ranking is perfect. Fortunately I own a manual aftermarket 190E
perfectly put together👌🏻
Great video. The W202 and W203 generations are some of my all time favorite C-Class models. And even more so in AMG form. But I love any and all C and E Class sedans. I’ve _never_ been into S-Classes, or Mercedes station wagons (and I’m a major wagon fan) but the C and E Class sedans are some of my fav Sedans. They age well visually. They feel solid. Just can’t go wrong.
Been waiting on a video 🔥🔥
I highly recommend doing a video on the top AMG Mercedes SUVs since AMG made some good offerings before the recent crossover/SUV craze of the past 8 years
I agree with this list 100% it’s between the 201 and 204 for me. Good job
For reliability, probably the W204. For looks, I'd go for my W205, but I know I'm in the minority.
For power, the W206 is the obvious answer. But for sound, it's the W204. 3.0L V6 in the 300 and the big 6.2L V8 in the 63. The good old days.
Your list is perfect.
i driving the w203 sportcoupe (cl203) i love it!
Would you do a video on the CL - S coupe? Thx
W204 2.2 cdi sport auto om646 engine i had in rare light grey . I loved and only had a thing for that car and still do
LOVE my W204
I’ve got the c400 specifically, /c450/c43 with the M276 DELA 30. I was wondering if you could do a review on the engine. It’s been hard to find in-depth information about it.
W205 is it for me, best styling, interior, sound system, tech. That’s obviously a product of a newer car, but it’s still the best. Looks wise, they were able to compliment a soft/medium and aggressive look into the car, and it’s not too ANGULAR. This duality makes it the best blend of luxury and sporty(with simple aftermarket options)
Take your engine apart and do a video about it.
W202 hands down. No other comes close.
Love videos like this that take a backward glance at some of our favourite AMG Cars.
How about a similar series for the often overlooked SLK AMG range?
Good suggestion. You don’t find much love for the SLK/C/XF
The w204 c63 is my dream car
I love the W204 to death but I gotta take the hat off for the W201. Such a masterpiece.
My favourite: W203 facelift C220 CDI with OM646. Best balance of power and fuel consumption. Also very very long lasting engine. a million km is possible here. W204 also had in the beginning the OM646 Evo but with bad injectors then replaced with OM651 which has some issues (smaller fragile chain built in the backside of engine pain in the ass to change), TLDR: W205 W204 too complex, W203 before facelift W202 W201 rust issues
W202 remains my favourite 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜
There's been 3 W204 in my family, early C300 and late C250 and C350. Not a single one gave us any issue, by far the most reliable not only as a Mercedes but most reliable car period. Now that I can finally afford C63 all the available ones has been molested and just impossible to find a good example.
My 2014 W204 has never had any issues with drivetrain or engine/transmission issues. Best generation C class IMHO!
Awesome as usual material , thx ;)
I have w205 and I would do anything for getting C63 W204.
I can’t disagree with your list but I am partial to the W204. I’ve had two of them, a new 2009 with the P30 package and carbon fiber trim and more recently a nice used 2011 with the P31 package, locking diff and carbon fiber trim. They were more fun to rip around in then the W212 E63s I’ve had (M156 and M157).
I currently own 2 of them (a coupe and a wagon), and I have every intention of driving them until either they or I check out.
W204 C63 507 Edition. Probably just as rare as the black series. My buddy used to own one. OMG....that thing was a beast.....😳
As far i understand the W202 C55 was not a standard model offered by Mercedes.
The history of this car is super obscure and interesting, and it is not documented as well as i would want it to be.
If you bought a C43 you had the option to special order from AMG to have your car converted to a C55.
And this i think was offered only in 99' and 00', but even if you had a 98 c43 you could still do this.
A lot of parts were changed and taken from the w210 E55, not only the engine.
And as far as i know you had to pay a lot of money to AMG if you wanted this.
Only 59 true C55 W202 exist, 30 LHD, 29 RHD, and only 7 were Wagons. Truly a unicorn car and its not nearly talked about as it deserves.
If i saw one in public i would probably pass out.
There is currently one i can find for sale and its in Poland.
Asking price is 100k€
As far as the C-Class goes i currently own a 1999 W202 C180 Wagon and i cannot describe how much i love this car.
Yea its not fast but its comfortable and extremely reliable, and very fuel efficient.
Definitely not a standard model but it's still listed as its own model in the Mercedes archive like the C32 Sports Coupe. It's interesting that it lists a conversion price of 57,420 DM for the C55 if you had your C43 converted. mercedes-benz-publicarchive.com/marsClassic/en/instance/ko/C-55-AMG-station-wagon--S-202-E-55-1998---2000.xhtml?oid=5566
Re the 202 I agree, my '99 C180 just goes and goes. Recently did the cylinder head, and despite what many think, they are easy cars for the DIY type to work on, the M111 engine is practically indestructrable
You really LOVE W202, I can feel it in your views. Thanks for the info.😊
I agree with your rankings, but I still love my W205 C43 wagon for the daily driver. Not sure why the AWD doesn't get more respect, great rwd bias yet can still get me to the mountains. Head and shoulders above Audi and even the recent BMW wagons.
I love my C32 to death, it may not be the best C Class but I put it above the 201 and 204 in terms of styling. In my opinion the 204 was just too sharp in its design, and the 201 was a product of its time, but the 203 has timeless curves and shapes to itself. And I disagree on the interior as well, maybe build quality was a slight step down during the Daimler-Benz era but the design has held up incredibly well to me. The center console in its waterfall design is seen in the 205, holding the two side by side shows that and it’s aged much better in terms of looks compared to a 220 or 211 for that matter in my eyes. I personally think the 203 AMGs are the sweet spot for daily driver ownership as you get great performance in a simple easy to work on package that doesn’t catastrophically fail as the M112K and M113 engines paired to the 722.6 trans were bulletproof in most areas, especially in comparison to the M156 of the 204. Are they the best at anything? Not really but it’s a safe choice for a compact super sedan.
201 is so awesome. what a design! But I prefer the W124 500E
Can you make a episode of W124, one of the most important Mercedes model🙏
Have a w202 c280. Would love a w204 c63 amg. And have owned a w203 c320.
Love the w202 for the box light body and class.
I own W202 C55 (LHD) in Japan. Love W202. i used to own w202 c36 before c55.
V6 engine is smooth.
AMGmeister,do you know exact count of w202 c55 sedan Mercedes made in the wrold?
Ex owner said, Mercedes-Benz made a special order offer to a few VIP.And i heared there was 12 W202 C55 in Japan.
Great list! but I would prefer the 203 to 202.
Bought a facelift w204 c180 as my first car. Love for that
i love the w204.
you’re a fool if you don’t think the w204 amg is the best lol
Love the 204. We have two 2007 C200 Kompressors (Supercharged) in the family.
Personal favorite will always be the w204 but can't disagree with your reasoning behind the rankings and all are truly special. Would be great to see videos that rank the E and S-classes!
W204 C63 amg, ....I still feel the privilege!
Well done
I have an old 2004 C230 , It seems to be reliable! has 160,000 kms. I hope it lasts a long time! It's my first Mercedes Benz!
The W203 is my favoirite
Lucky enough to own a W204 C63 AMG, absolute monster of a machine and I’ve yet to do anything to it - quite an investment piece at the moment so I’m being careful 😂
How many miles? Coop?
About 10 years ago I had a chance to buy a 202 C55 in upstate South Carolina. It was really cheap, it needed a good bit of work, had 125,000km, but ran and drove. I really couldn't find out much about it at the time.. and really thought it was something this euro guy had put together. He worked at Michelin and was going back to France and was taking a new Z06 Vette at Michelin's expense. I have thought about that damn thing on and off for ever.
I love them all, and while the 204 will always have a special place in my heart as my first Mercedes, I absolutely agree with this ranking.
What’s the name of the song in the video?
No matter how much I try to believe that I'm is good or even better, the moment I just see a bend I realise nothing beats the best. The best or nothing
Oh I'm so in love with all these cars
Especially that c63s w204 1 door with wide body kit
Great video bro!!
i agree with this list, own the w204 and the w201 { but in 2.3L trim } love both these cars. the w204 is my daily driver. w201 is now my project car.
A clean, white, 202 C280, face lift...is my darling..❤❤❤
Technically, you could say the 201 is not a C-class (in name) but the 124 was not an E-class until they flipped the badge around. The 201 "birthed" the category for MB, so should be included, just like the Audi 80 can be considered the forerunner the A4 and the E21 3-series that was actually a coupé, gave rise to the (sub) compact executive saloon segment.
W204 and 205 for me
W202 C36 & C43 are my favourites.
Do one whit s class plz
W202 should be at the bottom just for the nearly catastrophic crash test results (i sadly knew someone who died crashing it). The w201 is nowhere near the newer models, forget the nostalgia or the durability. The w204 amg with its 6.2 l NA V8 is simply the best.
Would love a s class video like this. Any chances you’ll do one ?
Just bought my first Benz a c220cdi 2013 with 14000 miles backed with a 11 Merc services high spec and in immaculate condition throughout hopefully going to have her for while …