For the 2002 model year, Mercedes-Benz broadened the appeal of its C-Class, introducing a diverse range of body styles and performance options to cater to a wider spectrum of drivers. From the sporty hatchback to the practical wagon and the high-performance sedan, the 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class aimed to offer something for everyone in the luxury compact segment.
At the entry point to the range was the 2002 Mercedes-Benz C230 Kompressor Sport Coupe. This model, technically a hatchback, brought the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand to a more accessible price point, starting around $25,000. It targeted buyers seeking Mercedes-Benz’s renowned safety, engineering, and status in a more compact and youthful package. Powering the C230 Kompressor was a supercharged 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing a healthy 192 horsepower. This “kompressor” engine, borrowed from the SLK 230 roadster, when paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, allowed the C230 to achieve a 0-60 mph sprint in a respectable 7.2 seconds.
Despite being the entry-level model, the 2002 Mercedes-Benz C230 was generously equipped. Standard features included dual-zone climate control, sporty aluminum trim within the cabin, stylish 16-inch alloy wheels, and a six-speaker sound system. While a cassette deck was standard, reflecting the technology of the time, a CD player was available as an option, along with a CD changer. Convenience features like a tilt and telescopic steering wheel with integrated stereo and trip computer controls, and an eight-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, further enhanced the driving experience. For those seeking added luxury, leather seating and a large panoramic sunroof were among the available options.
Image: Interior view of a 2002 Mercedes-Benz C230 Kompressor Sport Coupe, highlighting the aluminum cabin accents and dashboard design.
Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety was evident throughout the 2002 C-Class range, and the C230 was no exception. It came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and Brake Assist, electronic stability control, and front, side, and head-protection airbags, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers.
Moving up the range, the 2002 Mercedes-Benz C240 and C320 sedans carried over largely unchanged from the previous year. The C240 was powered by a 2.6-liter V6 engine producing 168 horsepower, while the C320 boasted a more powerful 3.2-liter V6 with 215 horsepower. In a bid to compete more directly with rivals like BMW, Mercedes-Benz offered a six-speed manual gearbox as an option in the C240, appealing to driving enthusiasts. For those preferring automatic transmissions, the C320 came standard with a responsive five-speed automatic transmission featuring Mercedes-Benz’s TouchShift system. This allowed for manual gear changes should the driver desire a more engaging driving experience. TouchShift was also available as an option on the C240. Both the C240 and C320 benefited from a sophisticated five-link rear suspension and a rack-and-pinion steering system, delivering improved handling and driving dynamics compared to earlier C-Class models, making them surprisingly capable in spirited driving scenarios.
The luxury appointments were also elevated in the sedan models. The 2002 Mercedes-Benz C240 included standard features such as dual-zone climate control, steering wheel-mounted controls, and elegant wood trim. Stepping up to the C320 added further refinements, including a premium Bose stereo system, full power memory front seats, and a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel. A stand-alone navigation system and Mercedes-Benz’s innovative Cockpit Management and Data System (COMAND) were available as options. COMAND served as a central interface for controlling navigation, audio, and phone functions. Other available options included xenon headlamps, heated seats, a six-disc CD changer, and a sport package. The sport package enhanced the driving dynamics with firmer spring rates, tighter shock valving, a thicker stabilizer bar, and larger, performance-oriented tires.
Image: Center console of a 2002 Mercedes-Benz C320 sedan, showcasing the Cockpit Management and Data System (COMAND) interface.
For drivers craving high performance, the 2002 Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG sedan was the answer. Mercedes-Benz’s in-house tuning division, AMG, worked their magic on the C-Class sedan, creating a true performance machine. The C32 AMG was equipped with a supercharged V6 engine producing a remarkable 349 horsepower. This powerhouse was paired with an enhanced five-speed automatic transmission dubbed “SpeedShift,” resulting in blistering acceleration. The C32 AMG could launch from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5 seconds. To handle the increased performance, the C32 AMG featured beefy vented disc brakes, an AMG-tuned suspension, and 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in high-performance tires. Visually, the C32 AMG was distinguished from standard C-Class sedans by a unique front air dam and side skirts, distinctive wheels, and a sporty two-tone interior.
Completing the expanded 2002 C-Class lineup was the 2002 Mercedes-Benz C320 Sport Wagon. Sharing its underpinnings and features with the C320 sedan, the Sport Wagon offered added practicality with a generous cargo area, providing up to 63.6 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded. Despite its wagon body style, the C320 Sport Wagon maintained impressive performance, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a manufacturer-claimed 7.0 seconds, only slightly behind the C320 sedan. This made it a versatile option, blending luxury, performance, and cargo-carrying capability.
In conclusion, the 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class marked a significant expansion of the model line, providing a diverse range of options to suit various needs and preferences. From the fuel-efficient and sporty C230 Kompressor Sport Coupe to the luxurious and capable C240 and C320 sedans, the high-performance C32 AMG, and the practical C320 Sport Wagon, the 2002 C-Class solidified its position as a strong contender in the luxury compact car market, offering a blend of German engineering, safety, and prestige across its model range.
