The €700 Mercedes Nightmare: Is the W203 a "Bargain Basement" Disaster?

Originally uploaded on 31st December 2021. More than two decades ago, the famous three-pointed star luxury brand was in full process of reinventing its self, trying very hard to ditch the rigid, teutonic look of a car meant to be driven just by people of a certain age. Moreover, they (Mercedes-Benz) were trying to expand into new market segments, as the mid-sized sedan segment was very much disputed. Now, in 2021, we can have a nostalgic look back at those times, check out what this C-class had to offer, and in the midst of shifting automotive trends and technologic rifts we can almost consider the W203 a future classic. So join me, as I pose this simple question: Is this RWD N/A gasoline-powered sedan a car for the automotive enthusiast?

Added 20 May 2026