1999 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Classic review from UK and Ireland

Front brake disks were diagnosed by the local dealer as being corroded beyond economical repair this cost £200 parts and labour. Not very good on a 2 year old 25000 mile car.

Engine exploded at 26000 miles. It actually blew a hole in the side of the engine casing. Mercedes replaced the complete engine and turbo assembly with a factory new engine under the UK 3 year warranty. They also paid my taxi expenses and provided me with a new E-class for 3 weeks while the work was being done. All this was without argument or any cost to me.

At 28500 miles the steering column failed. The wheels would still turn, but with a loud knocking noise. This was replaced under warranty, again a free loan car and no cost to me.

This is an amazing little car with more room inside than many other much bigger cars.

The handling is excellent and most surprising for a short and tall car. The standard electronic stability protection really sharpens up the handling and has saved me from wet and greasy road accidents several times.

The diesel engine is great and works well with the 5-speed automatic gear box. I get 55mpg from this car which is impressive considering I drive in London traffic every day. The car is a bit slow pulling off from standstill, but accelerates like a rocket when overtaking. Strangely the car is at its best on the motorway where it is both quiet and smooth.

This car has been exceptionally well designed, but very poorly engineered and assembled. It has been the most unreliable car I have ever owned. However thanks to an excellent local Mercedes dealer and an impressive warranty the unreliability has not been a problem. Well done Mercedes dealers.