- 2010
2007 Mercedes-Benz C Class
- Used Mercedes-Benz C Class
Mercedes-Benz C Class
Overall Score - 7.4 (Good)
The C-Class delivers a well-engineered, comfortable and predictable ride with noteworthy safety features, but its styling is becoming dated and it can't match the lower sticker price of some of its direct competitors. If you're in the market for an upscale midsize car, you should also consider the Acura TL, Lexus ES and BMW 3 Series.
Auto reviewers see the 2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class as a practical, well-equipped, and relatively powerful sedan that's perfect for those that want luxury and prestige, but don't need a lot of passenger or cargo room. The optional 3.5L engine in particular receives positive reviews from critics. Edmunds says, "Although previously disregarded as a true sport sedan, this ... more powerful C350 Mercedes should earn a spot on any BMW shopper's short list."
The C-Class first debuted in 1984 and received a comprehensive redesign in 2001. It is largely a carryover for 2007, though an all-new generation is slated for the 2008 model year. Forbes urges buyers to consider the C-Class if "you must have a Benz but are on a budget, relatively speaking; you prefer compact and nimble sedans and don't usually need room for more than four adults and their stuff."
Pricewise, most reviewers see the C-Class as expensive for its small size, though several note it offers better value than most Mercedes cars do. Forbes says "spending well over $30,000 for a compact car seems excessive." BusinessWeek echoes "It's a bit pricey, even if it's cheap by Mercedes standards. For instance, the Infiniti G35 starts at $33,750 with all-wheel drive -- and comes with a 3.5 liter, 280-horsepower V6 with as much oomph as the engine in the Mercedes."
On the flip side, Kelley Blue Book says "Although priced slightly higher than similarly equipped models from Audi, Infiniti, Saab, Cadillac and Lexus, the C-Class can certainly match these vehicles in the areas of luxury, performance and value." However, the reviewer also notes "Prestige has its price. The C-Class is tight on rear-seat legroom and can cost thousands more than comparably equipped European, American and Japanese rivals." And while the base sticker may seem low for a luxury car, "option packages can add thousands to the bottom line."
As for resale value, Kelley Blue Book says "the C-Class falls short of typical Mercedes-Benz expectations. It has only a slightly better-than-average projected residual value over a four-year period, besting the Saab 9-3 and Cadillac CTS, but ranking far behind the values expected of the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Lexus IS and Infiniti G35." IntelliChoice gives the base C230 model a "worse than average" value rating for its predicated five-year total cost of ownership, compared to vehicles in its class.
The C-Class is also offered as a sport coupe and a wagon, however, starting in 2008, the C-Class will be offered only as a sedan in U.S. markets.
C-Class Performance - 7.6 (Good)
Reviewers generally agree that the 2007 Mercedes C-Class is enjoyable to drive and solidly-engineered, delivering a refined balance of power, handling, and braking, even with the base engine. Car and Driver says "It exhibits the same refinement as bigger Benzes, while steering keenly and handling well." Read More
C-Class Exterior - 7.1 (Good)
The majority are generally pleased with the C-Class's exterior, though some writers find it bland and somewhat dated. Kelley Blue Book says "The C-Class is a Mercedes-Benz product through and through. With overtones of E- and S-Class clearly visible in the design, the C-Class fits right into the Mercedes family and should more than satisfy any entry-level buyer." Read More
C-Class Interior - 6.8 (Mediocre)
Reviewers generally see the five-seat interior of the 2007 Mercedes C-Class as comfortable and well-engineered but somewhat plain, dated, and not truly suited for five. "The Mercedes C-Class seats four adults (or two adults and three kids) in reasonable comfort, though backseat legroom will be at a premium for longer-legged riders," says Forbes. Read More
C-Class Safety - 8.2 (Very Good)
The 2007 C-Class earns decent scores in federal government crash tests, earning 4 stars out of 5 for the passenger and 4 for the driver in frontal crash tests. BusinessWeek says, "Like other Mercedes, the C350 comes crammed with standard safety features." These include electronic stability control and plenty of air bags. Read More
C-Class Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz C Class reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Based on the U.S. News analysis of reliability information from a number of different sources, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class receives acceptable marks for predicted reliability. The C-Class comes with a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty. Read More
