2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Road Test
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2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class ▼
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- MSRP: $25,850 -$53,900
- Invoice: $24,041 -$50,127
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Our road test for the 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class help you decide if a 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| C240 Lux. Sdn, auto. | C320 Lux. Sdn w/nav. sys., auto. | C320 4Matic Lux. Sdn | C320 Sport Cpe, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 6 |
Test C320 sedan did 0-60 mph in 7.2 sec, coupe in 6.9; both had automatic transmission. Test automatic-transmission C230 sedan took 8.1 sec. Manual-transmission C240 sedan took 9.2 sec, weak for this class. No opportunity yet to test C55. 4Matic adds about 200 lb, but AWD models accelerate virtually the same as rear-drive counterparts.
FUEL ECONOMY
| C240 Lux. Sdn, auto. | C320 Lux. Sdn w/nav. sys., auto. | C320 4Matic Lux. Sdn | C320 Sport Cpe, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 5.3 |
Test automatic-transmission C230 sedan averaged 23.4 mpg. C240 sedans averaged 19.3-22.2 mpg. Test C320 sedans averaged 15.7-19.2 mpg. Test C320 4Matic sedans averaged 19.2-21.1 mpg, test C320 coupe averaged 17.6 with automatic, just 15.6 with manual. All engines require premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| C240 Lux. Sdn, auto. | C320 Lux. Sdn w/nav. sys., auto. | C320 4Matic Lux. Sdn | C320 Sport Cpe, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 |
Supple, composed on most surfaces with base suspension; a bit stiffer and more fidgety on models with 17-inch tires, but still comfortable. AWD does not affect ride quality.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| C240 Lux. Sdn, auto. | C320 Lux. Sdn w/nav. sys., auto. | C320 4Matic Lux. Sdn | C320 Sport Cpe, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.3 |
Assured and highly capable. Firmer Sport Coupe and Sport Sedan suspension and 17-inch tires enhance base chassis' already good grip and steering response. Coupe has slightly sharper moves than sedans, but isn't sports-car nimble. Standard antiskid/traction control a security plus for any rear-drive C-Class. Get 4Matic for impressive all-season roadholding. Brakes deliver short, undramatic stops, but pedal action slightly touchy on some test cars.
QUIETNESS
| C240 Lux. Sdn, auto. | C320 Lux. Sdn w/nav. sys., auto. | C320 4Matic Lux. Sdn | C320 Sport Cpe, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 |
Little wind rush. All engines quiet, refined. Road noise relatively high in sedans with 17-inch tires and in coupe with Panorama sunroof.
CONTROLS
| C240 Lux. Sdn, auto. | C320 Lux. Sdn w/nav. sys., auto. | C320 4Matic Lux. Sdn | C320 Sport Cpe, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6.9 |
New gauge cluster with simple round dials a legibility plus over previous design. Navigation system takes time to sort out. The '05 changes enhance upscale feel of luxury models, reinforce sporty ambience of Sports versions. Still, coupes have more plastic panels than deserved at these prices.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| C240 Lux. Sdn, auto. | C320 Lux. Sdn w/nav. sys., auto. | C320 4Matic Lux. Sdn | C320 Sport Cpe, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
A bit cozy feeling, but 6-footers have plenty of space. Standard tilt/telescope steering wheel helps tailor good basic driving stance. Tail design hampers coupe visibility astern and over the shoulder, but tinted glass panel below hatch window aids parking.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| C240 Lux. Sdn, auto. | C320 Lux. Sdn w/nav. sys., auto. | C320 4Matic Lux. Sdn | C320 Sport Cpe, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3.6 |
Riders sit knees-up if front seats are more than halfway back. Under-seat foot room also at a premium. Coupe's rear seat not as cramped as in most rivals; medium-size adults ride in relative comfort, but entry/exit a chore.
CARGO ROOM
| C240 Lux. Sdn, auto. | C320 Lux. Sdn w/nav. sys., auto. | C320 4Matic Lux. Sdn | C320 Sport Cpe, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 6 | 4 |
Sedan's usefully shaped trunk holds more than its 12.0-cu-ft volume implies. Wagon beats Audi A4 and especially BMW 3-Series rivals for volume. Coupe has good luggage space even with rear seat up. Split folding rear seats enhance versatility, but are sedan options. All C-Class cabins short on small-item storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| C240 Lux. Sdn, auto. | C320 Lux. Sdn w/nav. sys., auto. | C320 4Matic Lux. Sdn | C320 Sport Cpe, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 6 |
The C320 sedan is the best overall value in this line. It's a desirable premium compact in its own right, and vies with the best in class for driving composure, features, and long-term value. The 4Matic C240s and C320s impress with all-season security. C-Class coupes are less accommodating than the sedans, and lack the performance or styling to score with enthusiast buyers.
Total Score
| C240 Lux. Sdn, auto. | C320 Lux. Sdn w/nav. sys., auto. | C320 4Matic Lux. Sdn | C320 Sport Cpe, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 53 | 57 | 58 | 59 | 57.4 |
Total Score: 57
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