A third generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class was introduced in 2008, which coincidentally was also its 25th year in production. Longer and wider than its predecessor, it has a longer wheelbase as well. What didn't change are the classic driving qualities of a Mercedes sedan, which starts with a drivetrain that sends power to the rear wheels.
To satisfy a changing buyer demographic Mercedes gave buyers a choice of a traditional look grille with an upright hood ornament, or a no-extra-charge sport package. The sport package gives ‘C’ a more contemporary look and has a large three-point star emblazoned in the grille. It also came with an aero trim package and different (18-inch) wheels.
The ‘08 C-Class also came in two versions, a C300 and a C350. All-wheel-drive 4Matic versions of both were added later in the model run and a high-performance 450 horsepower C63 AMG version arrived the following year.
Structurally this "C" has 16 percent more torsional rigidity and it boasts near-perfect 50/50 weight balance. A new quick response suspension damping system can independently adjust each wheel to a harder or softer setting, depending on road surface. The steering is also a little quicker with 14.5 steering ratio and a tighter turn circle.
On the inside, standard equipment includes eight-way power front seats with lumbar support and two-zone automatic climate control. There's Bluetooth connectivity and a centre dash hide-away multi function display screen. A power sunroof was also standard and a new multifunction steering wheel.
The C300 comes with a 3.0-litre V6 that can provide up to 228 horsepower and fuel economy is 11.7 L/100 km in the city and 7.7 L/100 km on the highway. The C350 comes with a 3.5-litre V6 that can produce 268 hp and its city/highway fuel economy is 12.2 L/100 km and 8.0 L/100 km respectively. Both engines are mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift feature and a 6-speed manual transmission was also available with the C300.
Safety:
Mercedes claims best in class safety with over 100 crash tests to prove this assertion. Its high-strength passenger protection cell is augmented by six (standard) air bags plus active head restraints and belt systems. Visually, however, the most obvious new safety enhancements are its new bi-xenon headlamps.
Typical Used Prices: 2008 - 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (August 2014)
Year Trim Level Price Today
2008 C300 4Matic $15,000 to $19,000
2009 C300 4Matic $17,000 to $22,000
2010 C300 4Matic $19,500 to $24,500
2011 C300 4Matic $22,500 to $27,500
2012 C300 4Matic $26,000 to $32,000
2013 C300 4Matic $30,000 to $36,000
2014 C300 4Matic $34,500 to $41,000
These prices are approximate and based on advertised AutoTrader.ca asking prices for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. There are a number of factors that can influence the actual value of a vehicle and these include; local area market; vehicle condition and mileage; previous use and accident history. A complete mechanical check should always be performed by a reliable auto technician prior to purchase.
Safety Recalls
There are five safety recalls on this generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Buyers should contact a Mercedes-Benz dealer to ensure all recall repairs are up to date and register as the vehicle’s new owner.
http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/7/VRDB-BDRV/search-recherche/menu.aspx?lang=eng
Autos.ca review quotes & links:
Test Drive: 2008 Mercedes C350 4Matic
“The new C drives like a miniaturized S-class, which is no bad thing. Roll down any road and there’s that same sense of refinement that you get in the bigger car. Even with the sport suspension and its larger AMG-design wheels, the ride quality is super, taking the edge off even the sharpest pavement imperfections, gliding over big bumps as if they were barely there. The seven-speed automatic transmission swaps cogs quickly and smoothly, always keeping the 3.5-litre V6 in its ideal operating zone.”
– Laurance Yap /Autos.ca
Web link: http://www.autos.ca/car-test-drives/test-drive-2008-mercedes-c350-4matic/
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