2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C180 Kompressor Classic review from UK and Ireland

Reliable as clockwork.

If you want a car to cope with 40,000 annual motorway miles, you simply cannot do better than this without spending daft amounts of cash.

The supercharger means the 1.8 litre engine copes a lot better than you think it might. It's not quick, but plenty lively enough for most situations, and has lots of torque to pull the car along. On the motorway at 80-85 mph it is whisper quiet, has plenty of power in reserve, and does 35 mpg. If you live on motorways, you don't need a bigger engine than this, as it will still show 140 on the clock (approx 130 genuine I suspect) if you allow it its head. In fact, compared to my previous Peugeot 406 SRi Turbo, there's not much in it.

Much is made of Mercedes build quality not being up to scratch on newer cars, but mine is totally faultless. It still looks and feels new after 42,000 miles. It's a relaxing car to drive, and I can't seriously fault it. More power would be nice, but not enough to justify the higher purchase, running and insurance costs of one of the larger engines. In 99% of road situations, the 180 Kompressor lump is perfectly adequate.

I would recommend this to anyone looking for a beautifully engineered, comfortable and soothing motorway express. Just dig deep come service time.