For 2002, Mercedes-Benz broadened the appeal of the C-Class, introducing a range of models including a practical hatchback, a versatile wagon, and a high-performance sports sedan. This expansion aimed to capture a wider audience seeking the prestige and engineering synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz brand.
Starting with the entry point to the range, the C230 Kompressor Sport Coupe, Mercedes offered a more accessible model without compromising on core values. Priced around $25,000, this hatchback variant brought the three-pointed star within reach of a broader demographic desiring Mercedes-Benz’s renowned safety, engineering, and brand cachet.
Under the hood, the C230 Kompressor Sport Coupe featured a supercharged 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing a healthy 192 horsepower. This “kompressor” engine, shared with the SLK 230 roadster, when paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, allowed the compact Mercedes to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 7.2 seconds. Despite its entry-level positioning within the C-Class lineup, the C230 Kompressor was generously equipped. Standard features included dual-zone climate control, aluminum interior trim, 16-inch alloy wheels, a six-speaker audio system with a cassette player, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel with integrated controls, and an eight-way manually adjustable driver’s seat. Leather upholstery and a large panoramic sunroof were available as optional upgrades. Reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety, the C230 Kompressor boasted an array of advanced safety technologies, including four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and Brake Assist, electronic stability control, and front, side, and head-protection airbags.
Moving to the sedan variants, the C240 and C320 models remained largely unchanged from the previous year. The C240 was powered by a 2.6-liter V6 engine delivering 168 horsepower, while the C320 offered a more potent 3.2-liter V6 producing 215 horsepower. In a move to compete more directly with rivals, a six-speed manual transmission was offered in the C240. For those favoring automatic transmissions, the C320 came standard with a responsive five-speed automatic featuring Mercedes-Benz’s TouchShift system, enabling manual gear selection. This automatic was optional on the C240. The C-Class sedans, equipped with a five-link rear suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, delivered enhanced handling capabilities compared to pre-2001 models, making them more engaging to drive. Standard luxury features on the C240 included dual-zone climate control, steering wheel-mounted controls, and wood trim. Upgrading to the C320 added a Bose premium sound system, fully powered and memory-equipped front seats, and a power tilt/telescoping steering column. Optional extras for the sedans included a standalone navigation system, Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND system (integrating navigation, audio, and phone controls), xenon headlights, heated seats, a six-disc CD changer, and a sport package. The sport package enhanced driving dynamics with firmer spring rates, tighter shock absorbers, a thicker stabilizer bar, and larger performance tires.
Mercedes-AMG, the performance division, applied its expertise to the C-Class sedan, creating the formidable C32 AMG. This high-performance model featured a supercharged V6 engine generating an impressive 349 horsepower. Paired with a modified five-speed automatic transmission called “SpeedShift,” the C32 AMG could accelerate to 60 mph in approximately 5 seconds. To complement the increased power, the C32 AMG was equipped with robust vented disc brakes, an AMG-tuned suspension, and 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with performance tires. Distinctive styling elements, such as a front air dam, side skirts, unique wheels, and a two-tone interior, visually differentiated the C32 AMG from standard C-Class sedans.
Completing the 2002 C-Class lineup was the C320 Sport Wagon. Sharing the mechanical underpinnings and features of the C320 sedan, the Sport Wagon offered added practicality with a substantial cargo capacity of up to 63.6 cubic feet. Despite its wagon body style, the C320 Sport Wagon delivered commendable performance, achieving a 0-60 mph time of around 7.0 seconds, only slightly behind the C320 sedan. The 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class range offered a diverse selection of models, catering to various needs and preferences, while maintaining the brand’s reputation for luxury, safety, and engineering excellence.
