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2004
Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Starts at:
$25,850
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 2dr Sport Cpe 1.8L
    Starts at
    $25,850
    23 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2dr Sport Cpe 3.2L
    Starts at
    $28,250
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn Sport 1.8L Manual
    Starts at
    $29,250
    22 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn 2.6L
    Starts at
    $32,650
    20 City / 25 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas/Ethanol V6
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn 2.6L 4MATIC
    Starts at
    $33,850
    19 City / 25 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas/Ethanol V6
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn 2.6L
    Starts at
    $34,150
    20 City / 25 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas/Ethanol V6
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn 2.6L 4MATIC
    Starts at
    $35,350
    19 City / 25 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas/Ethanol V6
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sport Sdn 3.2L
    Starts at
    $37,350
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn 3.2L
    Starts at
    $37,950
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas/Ethanol V6
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn 3.2L 4MATIC
    Starts at
    $39,150
    19 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas/Ethanol V6
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn 3.2L
    Starts at
    $39,450
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas/Ethanol V6
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn 3.2L 4MATIC
    Starts at
    $40,650
    19 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas/Ethanol V6
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn 3.2L AMG
    Starts at
    $51,400
    16 City / 21 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Notable features

Four engine choices
RWD
Manual or automatic
Side-curtain airbags
Available C32 AMG

The good & the bad

The good

Performance with 3.2-liter V-6
Automatic-transmission response
Interior space
Construction quality
Mercedes-Benz reputation

The bad

Control layout and usage
Price of the C320 and C32 AMG
Fuel economy of the C32 AMG

Expert 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
Mercedes-Benz’s smallest, lowest-priced sedan earned some enhancements for 2003, including newly available 4Matic four-wheel drive that is an alternative to standard rear-wheel drive. A C320 sport wagon joined the C-Class lineup for the 2002 model year, and a C240 wagon followed later. A C32 AMG sedan that is equipped with a 349-horsepower V-6 engine and AMG’s SpeedShift transmission is also available.

Sport versions of the C-Class that target younger buyers joined the group during 2003. The C230 Kompressor (supercharged) four-cylinder sport sedan and the C320 sport sedan have a sport-tuned suspension and a standard six-speed close-ratio manual transmission. The 2004 4Matic sedans and wagons with heated seats are priced lower than last year’s models. (Skip to details on the: C-Class Sports Coupe)

Exterior
Wedge-shaped styling features a steep rake to the windshield and back window. A familiar Mercedes-Benz grille with a three-pointed star insignia atop the sculpted hood sits up front. The headlights and turn signals are integrated into elliptical shapes, and triangular taillights are installed.

At 178.3 inches long overall, the C-Class sedan is 2 inches longer than the comparable BMW 3 Series. The high-performance C32 AMG rides on 17-inch tires, while regular C-Class sedans and wagons feature 16-inchers.

Interior
Five people may revel in a sizable wood-trimmed interior with leather and vinyl upholstery; full leather is available. Powered front seats have ample rearward travel to accommodate tall occupants. Split, folding rear seatbacks are optional. The sedan’s trunk capacity is 12.2 cubic feet, and wagons hold 25.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat. Tele Aid emergency communication service is standard.

Under the Hood
A 168-hp, 2.6-liter V-6 engine in the C240 teams with a six-speed-manual gearbox or an optional five-speed driver-adaptive automatic transmission. A SpeedShift feature can determine the best possible gear. The 215-hp, 3.2-liter V-6 in the C320 mates only with the automatic transmission. A supercharged 3.2-liter V-6 in the C32 AMG produces 349 hp and teams with the automatic. A 189-hp supercharged four-cylinder engine goes into the C230 Kompressor model.

Safety
Dual-stage front airbags and door-mounted side-impact airbags for the front and rear seats are standard. Curtain-type airbags deploy from above the side windows. With Mercedes-Benz’s BabySmart technology, sensors disable the airbags if they detect a child-safety seat. All C-Class sedans have antilock brakes and the automaker’s Electronic Stability Program.

Driving Impressions
The C320 is a precise, fully capable and rewarding road machine with a couple of irritating features. Rather than a full set of gauges, the driver must click through a sequence of electronic displays. The tachometer is small, and the controls aren’t the easiest to use. Ride quality is firm but highly pleasing. If the sedan hits a nasty bump, recovery is nearly instantaneous. The C320 is notably stable on the highway, and it requires minimal correction on straightaways. Extra-precise steering provides response to driver inputs that could hardly be better in a family-size sedan; however, the C320 doesn’t feel quite as sure of itself on the road as some rivals.

Performance from the 3.2-liter engine is strong and eager. The automatic transmission reacts quickly and almost seamlessly for passing and merging. Front occupants get plenty of space.

Related Model: C-Class Sports Coupe
A new three-spoke sport steering wheel, an enlarged chrome exhaust tip and body-colored door handles go into 2004 models of the C-Class Sports Coupe. Satellite radio systems can now be installed at the dealership.

No sheet metal is shared between the C-Class Sports Coupe and the sedan. At 171 inches long overall, the wedge-shaped two-door is 7.3 inches shorter than the sedan, but other dimensions are similar. A sport-tuned suspension helps deliver a more enthusiast-oriented experience.

The C230’s supercharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine develops 189 hp and 192 pounds-feet of torque. A 3.2-liter V-6 in the C320 produces 215 hp and 221 pounds-feet. A six-speed-manual transmission is standard, and a five-speed automatic is optional.

Except for a slight floating sensation on certain surfaces, the C230 Sports Coupe exhibits expert handling skills. It dives into tight curves with glee and behaves admirably even when the pavement gets rough. Even though the back end occasionally seems like it’s on the verge of breaking loose during rapid maneuvers, the Coupe remains quite well planted.

When equipped with an automatic transmission, the Coupe lacks the zip and personality that the well-matched six-speed manual provides. Acceleration is suitably swift, and the supercharger’s presence is hardly noticeable in ordinary driving. The manual gearbox shifts easily with short throws between gears, but it is slightly vague. Back to top

2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
Mercedes-Benz’s smallest, lowest-priced sedan earned some enhancements for 2003, including newly available 4Matic four-wheel drive that is an alternative to standard rear-wheel drive. A C320 sport wagon joined the C-Class lineup for the 2002 model year, and a C240 wagon followed later. A C32 AMG sedan that is equipped with a 349-horsepower V-6 engine and AMG’s SpeedShift transmission is also available.

Sport versions of the C-Class that target younger buyers joined the group during 2003. The C230 Kompressor (supercharged) four-cylinder sport sedan and the C320 sport sedan have a sport-tuned suspension and a standard six-speed close-ratio manual transmission. The 2004 4Matic sedans and wagons with heated seats are priced lower than last year’s models. (Skip to details on the: C-Class Sports Coupe)

Exterior
Wedge-shaped styling features a steep rake to the windshield and back window. A familiar Mercedes-Benz grille with a three-pointed star insignia atop the sculpted hood sits up front. The headlights and turn signals are integrated into elliptical shapes, and triangular taillights are installed.

At 178.3 inches long overall, the C-Class sedan is 2 inches longer than the comparable BMW 3 Series. The high-performance C32 AMG rides on 17-inch tires, while regular C-Class sedans and wagons feature 16-inchers.

Interior
Five people may revel in a sizable wood-trimmed interior with leather and vinyl upholstery; full leather is available. Powered front seats have ample rearward travel to accommodate tall occupants. Split, folding rear seatbacks are optional. The sedan’s trunk capacity is 12.2 cubic feet, and wagons hold 25.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat. Tele Aid emergency communication service is standard.

Under the Hood
A 168-hp, 2.6-liter V-6 engine in the C240 teams with a six-speed-manual gearbox or an optional five-speed driver-adaptive automatic transmission. A SpeedShift feature can determine the best possible gear. The 215-hp, 3.2-liter V-6 in the C320 mates only with the automatic transmission. A supercharged 3.2-liter V-6 in the C32 AMG produces 349 hp and teams with the automatic. A 189-hp supercharged four-cylinder engine goes into the C230 Kompressor model.

Safety
Dual-stage front airbags and door-mounted side-impact airbags for the front and rear seats are standard. Curtain-type airbags deploy from above the side windows. With Mercedes-Benz’s BabySmart technology, sensors disable the airbags if they detect a child-safety seat. All C-Class sedans have antilock brakes and the automaker’s Electronic Stability Program.

Driving Impressions
The C320 is a precise, fully capable and rewarding road machine with a couple of irritating features. Rather than a full set of gauges, the driver must click through a sequence of electronic displays. The tachometer is small, and the controls aren’t the easiest to use. Ride quality is firm but highly pleasing. If the sedan hits a nasty bump, recovery is nearly instantaneous. The C320 is notably stable on the highway, and it requires minimal correction on straightaways. Extra-precise steering provides response to driver inputs that could hardly be better in a family-size sedan; however, the C320 doesn’t feel quite as sure of itself on the road as some rivals.

Performance from the 3.2-liter engine is strong and eager. The automatic transmission reacts quickly and almost seamlessly for passing and merging. Front occupants get plenty of space.

Related Model: C-Class Sports Coupe
A new three-spoke sport steering wheel, an enlarged chrome exhaust tip and body-colored door handles go into 2004 models of the C-Class Sports Coupe. Satellite radio systems can now be installed at the dealership.

No sheet metal is shared between the C-Class Sports Coupe and the sedan. At 171 inches long overall, the wedge-shaped two-door is 7.3 inches shorter than the sedan, but other dimensions are similar. A sport-tuned suspension helps deliver a more enthusiast-oriented experience.

The C230’s supercharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine develops 189 hp and 192 pounds-feet of torque. A 3.2-liter V-6 in the C320 produces 215 hp and 221 pounds-feet. A six-speed-manual transmission is standard, and a five-speed automatic is optional.

Except for a slight floating sensation on certain surfaces, the C230 Sports Coupe exhibits expert handling skills. It dives into tight curves with glee and behaves admirably even when the pavement gets rough. Even though the back end occasionally seems like it’s on the verge of breaking loose during rapid maneuvers, the Coupe remains quite well planted.

When equipped with an automatic transmission, the Coupe lacks the zip and personality that the well-matched six-speed manual provides. Acceleration is suitably swift, and the supercharger’s presence is hardly noticeable in ordinary driving. The manual gearbox shifts easily with short throws between gears, but it is slightly vague. Back to top

Available cars near you

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain
4 years / 50,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
6 years old or less / less than 75,000 miles
Basic
1 year / unlimited miles
Dealer certification
164-point inspection

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Consumer reviews

4.4 / 5
Based on 45 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.5
Interior 4.3
Performance 4.7
Value 4.4
Exterior 4.6
Reliability 4.3

Most recent

  • Only 107k miles

    One of the best cars I’ve ever owned. This was my wife’s car and we just got her a newer model. I currently own 3 of these they are great cars. I have a gold one and my daughter has a black one.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    15 people out of 16 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Sporty, yet classy

    I love owning this car. It is sporty, with plenty of power yet provides a comfortable ride with roomy front seats for tall people and adequate room in the rear seat.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    5 people out of 5 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Best deal Ever!

    Car is perfect for our needs as a comfortable daily commuter. Small but not too small for parking and traffic. Plenty of get up and go.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    7 people out of 7 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Beautiful machine

    One of the best car that I never owned was a C220 CDI. Fabulous car and gives value for money. Has excellent fuel consumption and is very quiet considering that it was a diesel. Pheew. I enjoyed the ride.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Most reliable car!

    The ride is smooth and it handles almost like new.It's just the right size, has very comfortable seats and is loaded with technology! On my first 500+ mile trip, I averaged 28.8 mpg. If you're looking for a good deal and ride, put this one on your short list to test drive.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Classy, reliable, great driving wagon

    Loads of features on this car for its age; comfortable, roomy and reliable. The wagon offers an especially smooth ride due to its extra suspension for loads. Great gas mileage, and a sleek look. They are hard to find, and this size is no longer imported from Germany.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Most reliable car I owned highly recommend

    This car met all my needs and no longer need a long car in the city.well recommended car and driving in a great condition. Come for a text drive.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • MERCEDES WAGON : WONDERFUL TO DRIVE.

    This car has been my favorite for 10 years; plenty of leg room for driver and passengers, and cargo too. The most reliable car I have ever owned!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Very quiet, comfortable country cruiser

    Each time I get behind the wheel of my Benz I delight in the way it drives. It's smooth and responsive, with oodles of poke. It's extremely sure footed, even on rough roads, providing a certain feel that only seems evident with the Mercedes. Power is smooth and the car changes both up and down the box, readily without complaint even when its' pushed.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Priced to sell

    Has some miles on it but it is a reliable car always maintained, heater and air work great, love the touch screen stereo bluetooth, gps, dvd, back up cam, sunroof. Heated seats and a clean title tags until November 2019 all this at a great price
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • I own a Mercedes Benz C240

    I love my car runs great ! Reliable, beautiful, I would buy another one ! I love the way it handles very stylish . I own a burgandy color car
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great Engine!!

    This C240 met all of my needs. As of 2018, my car mileage is ~300K. I am happy with engine because it is very reliable.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is available in 4 trim levels:

  • 1.8L (2 styles)
  • 2.6L (4 styles)
  • 3.2L (6 styles)
  • 3.2L AMG (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers up to 23 MPG in city driving and 30 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class reliable?

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has an average reliability rating of 4.3 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class owners.

Is the 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class a good Coupe?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class. 86.7% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.4 / 5
Based on 45 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.5
  • Interior: 4.3
  • Performance: 4.7
  • Value: 4.4
  • Exterior: 4.6
  • Reliability: 4.3

Mercedes-Benz C-Class history

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