It's a nice looking car, you say the wheels look small, but because the car is not overly large, overgrown like a lot of today's cars, I think it looks right on them
I am glad you like my choice. The 18s are in the cellar and in my opinion don't better plus for long drives it is more comfortable riding on a bit more rubber
Hi from Iran. This time your Shirt with Persian Calligraphy ( one of the few styles), Make me more attentive I guess. Love your contents. We dont have 80% of the tested cars here. Nevertherless we love your channel.
My Dad had a 2005 W203 C220 cdi Aventgarde when I was about ten. The first car that got me "into cars". Great video and lovely to see a W203 on the channel. A really appealing car!
I've got a station of what your dad had and although it's visually beaten up and on 15" 190 alloys I love it for the torque and reliability. Although being a 2002 it had all its child sicknesses being a 220cdi and the previous owners not taking care of the mechanical state.
Suspension arms can get bent on these at the rear. It causes a weird swaying feeling from time to time over unsettled road. Replacing those arms sorts it out. Not cheap, but not too bad
I've always loved the shape of these but the never ending battle againt rust is something I've sworn off after selling my last E39. Very cool to see a nice example, they're becoming rare over here (NL). Thanks for the great content James.
Great video! Love an m113 video! These mercs are a lot of car for the money. Coming up to 10months ownership on a CLK500 and I think you describe it well as a 7/10 car, coming from BMWs. You can get into a rhythm with it on the b roads, even with a little dabble in manual on the 7g tronic , but I love just cruising about town with no effort and that lazy v8 grumble. So smooth on the gear changes. My next mod will be a subtle exhaust change for a little more noise as they are very quiet and somewhat too refined with the standard exhaust. You are right about the silver, I really did not want a silver car but the engine and spec led me to the purchase and when it’s shiny it really has grown on me
Of all the AMG cars, the one I always lusted after most was the W210 E55. I saw one at John Lennon airport in a beautiful dark plum colour and fell in love.
The CLS Shooting Brake AMG 63S is the ultimate and best AMG ever built... Period I own one so may be a bit biased, but having owned and driven a number of other Mercedes and AMG versions, it is far and away the best...
I am very glad these cars are getting love. I was never a huge fan of the wagon body style of these cars, but the sedans, like you noted, are very good looking cars. I own a 2007 C230 with the same staggered wheels as the one in the video with a factory AMG exhaust and a slightly lower ride height on what I’m assuming is either an AMG suspension or some type of alternate Mercedes Benz suspension. Not sure but it definitely sits about 12mm lower than other W203’s that I’ve seen. These cars are extremely solid for what they are. And they are very reliable for someone looking for a fantastic car on a budget. Here in the states you can find clean C230’s with around 85,000 miles for only about $6,500. I’ve seen a few low miles C55 for around $12,000 which is a lot of car for the money. My car was essentially a one owner car with 112,000 miles on the clock for only $5,000. And if you know anything about these W203s, it’s that no matter which one you get, they are all capable of hitting 250,000+ miles with little to no fuss.
I had a 54 plate C55 AMG many many years ago. AMG and Mercedes Benz world rebuilt the suspension on mine and it made all the difference in the world. Mind you, I used to get through a lot pf Pzero rear tyres.
Seeing a S203 on your channel makes me happy. Its a car that grew on me like no other, for many reasons. It feels so effortless to maneuver through tight city streets, it does everything so well i could not justify replacing it. IMO the old 5 speed is a fantastic gearbox, if you keep in mind that it was developed in the 90s its really the good both in terms of comfort and performance. I've had two of these, one was a elegance model that would drive like a typical mercedes, a floaty mini s class, the other now a avantgarde with the sports package, similiar experience to what you described. I can only speak for the regular cars as AMGs are out of my price range, but i would pick a 203 over a bmw 46 almost every time, with the A4 coming in (very)far behind. It offers so much for a car that size. I considered upgrading , but the W204 has a atrocious interior, at least pre facelift, if you sit in both back to back you'll notice.
@@TimLemonn what are you on about the build quality and reliability were vastly superior on the right cars, JDM and German. French, Italy, British of course were not so great. Tech was spot on, you had the right amount, then tech tookmover in 2000's and ruined cars, everuthing isnelectronically assisted or computer controlled, taking away driver feel and engagement. Also the cars you had in the 90s is incomparable, the amount of sports cars and variety ofnother types of cars is unrivalled especially from JDM who were top tier, unmatched to.this day.
Jay, please get a W209 CLK on. Preferably a 320, 350 or 500 in a Avantgarde guise as it has the sports suspension as standard. Maybe if the stars align for us both as I really want to see this video myself too, you could get a CLK 55 on.
I remember meeting a very well spoken lady that ran a wedding catering company in Surrey. She pulled up in one of these, two dogs jumped with posh names jumped out the back and I thought I've never seen anything more 'old money' in my life.
So much character over Modern AMG as a brand and philosophy. This car and other M113K, M156/M159, etc. powered big motor cars come from a time when AMG was about badassery and driving fun! Today's AMG can best be summed up as another anonymously dull corporate brick and not a professional skunkworks that was about making special cars out of the factory. M113/M113K is a legendary engine!
Surely that's Brabus you're talking about and not AMG? Brabus was the firm that took your run of the mill Mercedes/AMG and truly turned them into performance MONSTERS! Modern AMGs are the best versions they've ever made. They are much better built, more reliable, more effective and much, MUCH quicker than ever before. They are now the complete package and their engines are some of the highest powered in their class (often by a very large amount!)
I have a 2002 clk55 but same engine/trans essentially. If you just leave it in 4th so it doesn’t go into 5th and let it do its thing it’s so much better than trying to shift it. Starts from 1st at stops still and if you boot it while already moving thing only has to downshift once or twice instead of 5th to 3rd or 2nd. Seems to hold whatever gear you’re in longer too.
I had CLK270CDI for 6 years, sold and replaced it with 2012 E250CDI 4matic. Been driving it for a year now and honestly I wish to go back to CLK, but this time M113 and 7gtronic gearbox, probably the best option as daily if you dont need the extra space.
Love the W203. We have a 220D 2006. We've had it since new. Obviously nothing like this AMG but I love it still. The looks with the Avantgarde SE pack are fab. I do love the engine and autobox as well. A lot would say it was noisy, but I love the sound. It has a very distinct idle sound. On the move it's a lovely growl in the cabin and fades away at speed. It's got a great turbo whistle with the window open too. I find to drive, once you're moving the initial heaviness goes away and its very nimble. Guess it just suites my taste. Modern Mercedes I find are too perfect and soulless. I feel the same about most new stuff. All the noise, imperfections and feeling of speed that made cars special are gone. We now have cars that are about as exciting as fridges!
Good point, some cars regardless of sport or non sport aren't meant for those last 3 tenths. My 2006 Volvo S60 2.0T works best at 6 tenths max, best to ride the mid range torque and work with the old automatic
Discreet and swift - what isn’t to like. My C280 in full pipe and slippers colour and trim is a decent place to do miles whilst also embarrassing the odd boy racer so more of the same will be great.
The shirt looks like one of those posters from way back when, that when you stare at them for long enough, you still can't see a 3d image of an aquarium.
I had one of these for a couple of years, that's a really good review. I liked mine but just as you say, it's a seven-tenths car. Problem is the best I saw was 27mpg, plus it had the usual old-Merc issues (Crank Position sensor, driveshaft bearing, brakes, rusty arches etc). So then it's a bit of a commitment to run one, but it's not a heart-pounding sports car, so for me it wasn't worth the running costs to keep going with it as a 'daily'. OTOH just as you say, if you can only have one car and need an estate, then yes it's a good choice.
Just bought one of these (also an estate) and this video was what convinced me to pull the trigger. Super happy with the car based on the drive back, it's a JDM import (I'm in NZ) with under 100k miles
@KingofInterns super happy with it and feel like jayemm didn't cover all the practical aspects of the car like the dog net you can put up or how the rear seats fold totally flat and is long enough to sleep in the back if you need to
@@milesjcarter pop the rear armrest down and you will also find a ski sock. I also use the roofrack during summer for bikes. It seems like half the estates went to Japan!
@KingofInterns lucky! my one must not have that option there just a hard plastic piece attached with Allen bolts, could unbolt it I guess if do need ski hatch. It does come with this nice Japanese lady that talks to you though, good for learning foreign language 😂
@@milesjcarter fair enough! Hopefully yours does stay rust free though. I noticed rust advancing in the arch today. 2025 gearbox rebuild and new coil packs, pvc. 2026 bodywork
And here once again I am. On autotrader. Mentally spending money I don't have. I don't like this era of Mercedes. They're not as nice as the 90s era stuff that was when Mercedes was ran by engineers and not accountants. But this car is seriously cool
Very accurate review. Certainly a lot of car for the money. I picked up an absolute minter sedan for $13K NZ dollars. The leather and other materials wear so well, and the suspension on mine has been well maintained - tight as a drum. I have only really driven it 10 tenths a couple of times through some twisty NZ roads, and was very impressed at how it hung on. It is a car that takes some getting used to, unlike a Golf Gti or a 335i beemer, that have a very natural and instant rapport with the driver {at least in my case}, it takes some time to figure out the best way to drive, and trust the Merc. Hitting the apex correctly is a must, and slow in/ fast out gives you better results. My only real harsh critisism is that it doesn't come with a proper LSD - this would really transform the car, as the rear end constantly twists under load. It can be retro fitted of course, but with the low value of the car , is it worth it? I do love starting it up, and get a bit of a kick out of it, knowing, that not many people know what it is, and that is is rarer than a Ferrari 488. Enjoy
great car, the font end change I would never have noticed; the lengths manufacturers go to to get a good car to market! Would also add the similar vanguards of the sunroof are surely Subaru, also historically a producer of some very interesting estate cars. CHeers!
Agreed! This example however can get around 600km at a stretch on the highway. Enough range for most. Cruised at 70mph for 300km im convoy with a friends Tesla model Y. Petrol tank was over half full while Tesla had 30% range left 👍
Looks like a good one! Some nice upgrades by the owner too. Slightly envious of those brakes. Bit of an error removing the original wheels for a couple of reasons: 1. They look fantastic. 2. They are specific to the C55 and give the car a wider track than regular 203’s and the CLK55. The car certainly shouldn’t feel unsettled mid-corner either. My guess is that the hydro bushing in the rear upright is goosed. It was on mine and it had done less than 100k miles.
I bought my 2005 C55 new and used it daily to get to work. No better way to transport your self, until I bought an Audi S5. Have to say, the C55 is an awesome people hauler. Also, the original wheels look a lot better than these after market ones.
A freind had an E Class of this generation, a 3 litre turbo diesel one. It went very well but rusted even faster. Are the C Class ones of this era less rust prone ? The front shocks came through the suspension towers on his E.
C55 is the cheapest AMG to maintain but yes dont kid yourself on costs if you plan to drive it all over like this one (owner here). No 20 year old car driven a lot can avoid parts needing to be changed as they wear out
If you can, try finding the C30 CDI AMG Sportcoupe. I think that was the one and only diesel AMG ever made (I'm sure someone will correct me on that one if not outright calling me a hypocrite). Also, to be honest I was not really a fan of the W203-gen C-Class with its peanut eyes but sharp taillight. Kind of mismatched. And unfortunately the subsequent W204 and 205 were proper lookers. I do like the CLK though. Also is that a Gallardo 560 that I see on the title card?
the 5g gearbox is goated in my opinion it just needs a little bit of finesse. i like it better than the 7g gearbox, the weakest point on the 5g gearbox id say is downshifting. on 7g downshifting feels much much better
As much as I love the W204 C63 and many of the other AMGs from the 2010s era, I genuinely believe they simply aren't as cool (or better, or more reliable) compared to the late 90s/ early 00s models. The W211 E55 is my all-time favourite but its siblings, including this C55, aren't too far behind. With the later cars, Mercedes started going more and more aggressive with the styling and suspension, whereas these earlier cars felt more everyday-sensible, that just happened to have really special engines, AND look insanely cool while at it. Credit to the owner of this one for keeping it in absolutely mint condition!
Owner here. Thanks mate. For most it is just an old mercedes estate. For me it is the pinnacle of Mercedes. Well engineered, reliable, daily driverable and robust. Then it is completely under the radar and elegant in its own way. W204 c63 was a complete departure from that Sadly with age things start to wear out but then the same can be said for anything
I had a W211 E55AMG to replace an e60 M5 that was stolen. The M5 was the better drive by a long way. The Merc was more comfortable and usable but airmatic suspension and sbc brakes were a pain. Needlessly complicated for little obvious gain. I now have a C6 RS6 V10 so have completed the late noughties German nutter saloon trilogy 😂
When I saw the color of the calipers the first thought that crossed my mind was…rust. Personal opinion, silver or black. I’ve got a silver E400 and the silver calipers blend in beautifully. But, that’s just my taste. The content was great and I’m looking for one on Auto Tempest.
Nope, same problem on these. Only positive is that they may be worth enough for someone to pay to refurb them (DynoTorque had done the one I had for the PO).
Owner here. I considered the swap as I do a lot of miles however apparently the whole drivetrain has to come out and be swapped not just the diff. Gearbox and everything. This from the guys at PCS horndean who know these cars inside out. Just not worth it sadly.
@@KingofInterns well, i had the clk500 and clk55 at the same time one time, and they looked exatly the same from underneath with same gearbox, propshafts and different difs. and i liked driveing the 500 so much more just because of the longer gears. Got a cls55 right now. Best of both worlds :) much power, forced induction, long gears and a very nice upgraded limited slip
@@KingofInterns I loved your car though. Very tasteful wheels, suits it so much. Wish he responded to my email when I had a CLK320 B9 brabus.. That was quite something :)
Hitting many nails on many heads Mr Emm! Looking forwards to your CLK55 content… was interested to hear the C55 had an LSD, suspect you might find some sins in low speed traction zones with the CLK55 if it is lacking one. They’re a pig to launch well as std 🤣
The first AMG C class actually had a 6 cylinder engine, a 3.6 i6. It was later in the life cycle of the W202 that the C43 AMG with the V8 was produced. Those are rarer than the C36. I don't think Mercedes-Benz made a V8 C Class wagon after the W204, there was the W205 C43 AMG, but that had a 6 cylinder engine. The C63 was sedan or coupe only, IIRC.
I'll never be able to afford any of the cars mentioned in the video but I couldn't get past the auto in the Mercedes or the fact corrosion was still a problem for Mercedes during this era.
The rust issue was sorted by 2004. Most of the cars after 2004 seem to be ok. I have the 350 CLK Sport Cabriolet 2006 and there is not a spot of rust anywhere on my car. She has done 74000 miles . Immaculate really. The early cars did have issues, yes.
We have 2004 200 Compressor wagon , with over 404000miles on the clock Which I bought for my dad to enjoy in his retirement. To replace his E39 540I wagon The Merc is a better dog wagon!. I think this Wagon is better than a lot of cars I’ve owned that cost 3 times as much. Lovely to drive
I had a W203 coupe, it was junk and broke down a lot. It hadn't even done that many miles, although maybe the previous owner had not treated it very well. I had the 2.3 model.
Owner here. Pre face lift w203 was generally not good and had corrosion issues like the w202 and w210. 2005-2007 however w203/s203 became really good. Far better cabin than w204 that followed
@@KingofInterns For some reason I'm compelled to buy another one... but a pre-facelift model. I prefer the looks. I guess you can't help what you like.
I don't think you buy an AMG Merc for fast derives around country lanes. The fact that the wheels were a different diameter and wearing cross-climate tyres, may have compromised the ride and handling a little.
Summer tyres. Continental premium contact 7 at front and 6 at rear. Good quality rubber I can probably sort out the suspension but at great cost and I dont push this beyond 6/10s usually anyway. Besides road surface in Switzerland is generally better so more difficult to upset it
A car like this raises the age-old question in my mind: if it's just OK on motorways as well as b-roads, why not just get a high capacity diesel? After all, I don't think it was the AMG badge or the V8 that made these cars good.
ssssssshhhhhhh….. don’t tell anyone, but fast German estates of this era are a zillion times better than any SUV
It’s too late, the cats out the bag.
I hate the word better. Everything has pros and cons. Unless the budget is unlimited a gain in one area is a loss in another.
Yet the vast majority of GLOBAL consumers would pick a CUV.
Get off your high horse.
I do love a barge and would take one any day over an SUV. Even if they decide they don't want to sell them any more
@@Q-nt-Tf they are so much better for getting In and out of them. I don't even want clime down into my normal car anymore the effort is not worth it.
It's a nice looking car, you say the wheels look small, but because the car is not overly large, overgrown like a lot of today's cars, I think it looks right on them
Couldnt agree more
I am glad you like my choice.
The 18s are in the cellar and in my opinion don't better plus for long drives it is more comfortable riding on a bit more rubber
Agree.
Agreed.
Amazing how Merc went from tasteful refined classy cars to the absolute opposite.
Great review.
Hi from Iran.
This time your Shirt with Persian Calligraphy ( one of the few styles),
Make me more attentive I guess.
Love your contents.
We dont have 80% of the tested cars here.
Nevertherless we love your channel.
My Dad had a 2005 W203 C220 cdi Aventgarde when I was about ten. The first car that got me "into cars". Great video and lovely to see a W203 on the channel. A really appealing car!
I've got a station of what your dad had and although it's visually beaten up and on 15" 190 alloys I love it for the torque and reliability. Although being a 2002 it had all its child sicknesses being a 220cdi and the previous owners not taking care of the mechanical state.
Suspension arms can get bent on these at the rear. It causes a weird swaying feeling from time to time over unsettled road. Replacing those arms sorts it out. Not cheap, but not too bad
I've always loved the shape of these but the never ending battle againt rust is something I've sworn off after selling my last E39.
Very cool to see a nice example, they're becoming rare over here (NL).
Thanks for the great content James.
Clk500 or 550 from that era is a true hidden gem and offers incredible value for the money as it doesn't have "AMG tax" in its price.
@@iovakki that’s why I chose a CLS500 and not AMG
The CLK500 with M113 and 5 speed is an absolute gem and such good value for money, and it's very reliable.
I love this era of AMG
also, the swiss plate makes it look so nice
kudos to the owner for driving that in the very car friendly switzerland... .
Great video! Love an m113 video!
These mercs are a lot of car for the money. Coming up to 10months ownership on a CLK500 and I think you describe it well as a 7/10 car, coming from BMWs. You can get into a rhythm with it on the b roads, even with a little dabble in manual on the 7g tronic , but I love just cruising about town with no effort and that lazy v8 grumble. So smooth on the gear changes.
My next mod will be a subtle exhaust change for a little more noise as they are very quiet and somewhat too refined with the standard exhaust.
You are right about the silver, I really did not want a silver car but the engine and spec led me to the purchase and when it’s shiny it really has grown on me
Of all the AMG cars, the one I always lusted after most was the W210 E55. I saw one at John Lennon airport in a beautiful dark plum colour and fell in love.
I highly recommend the W210 E55. You won't regret it.
Absolutely. I saw a 2000 Mars Red E55 at Buffalo cars and coffee and it looked insane with the silver monoblocks. 😮
Couldn’t afford to run the AMG so bought a 2015, E220, AMG Sport, Night Edition, Wagon in Hyacinth Red.
I absolutely love it.
My retirement car.
Couldn't afford either so I'm keeping my trusty Peugeot 106d.
That is actually a Mercedes colour.... I had to look it up before I made a keeping up appearances joke :P
@@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne peugeot 106 is a lovely car
👏
@@0tispunkm3y3r Yep. That’s a popular family joke. 🤭
I LOVE THIS ERA.
The CLS Shooting Brake AMG 63S is the ultimate and best AMG ever built... Period
I own one so may be a bit biased, but having owned and driven a number of other Mercedes and AMG versions, it is far and away the best...
Owner here and agree with you :)
5.5 biturbo CLS shooting brake I absolutely love!
Perhaps my next car 😊
Couldn’t agree more, if equally biased! James reviewed my 63S Shooting Brake a few months ago.
The M157 sounds so good. If we talk 'the best (normal) AMG ever' the C222 S class as 63 cant be ignored. The early ones came with the M157 as well.
I am very glad these cars are getting love. I was never a huge fan of the wagon body style of these cars, but the sedans, like you noted, are very good looking cars. I own a 2007 C230 with the same staggered wheels as the one in the video with a factory AMG exhaust and a slightly lower ride height on what I’m assuming is either an AMG suspension or some type of alternate Mercedes Benz suspension. Not sure but it definitely sits about 12mm lower than other W203’s that I’ve seen. These cars are extremely solid for what they are. And they are very reliable for someone looking for a fantastic car on a budget. Here in the states you can find clean C230’s with around 85,000 miles for only about $6,500. I’ve seen a few low miles C55 for around $12,000 which is a lot of car for the money. My car was essentially a one owner car with 112,000 miles on the clock for only $5,000. And if you know anything about these W203s, it’s that no matter which one you get, they are all capable of hitting 250,000+ miles with little to no fuss.
I had a 54 plate C55 AMG many many years ago. AMG and Mercedes Benz world rebuilt the suspension on mine and it made all the difference in the world. Mind you, I used to get through a lot pf Pzero rear tyres.
Seeing a S203 on your channel makes me happy. Its a car that grew on me like no other, for many reasons. It feels so effortless to maneuver through tight city streets, it does everything so well i could not justify replacing it. IMO the old 5 speed is a fantastic gearbox, if you keep in mind that it was developed in the 90s its really the good both in terms of comfort and performance.
I've had two of these, one was a elegance model that would drive like a typical mercedes, a floaty mini s class, the other now a avantgarde with the sports package, similiar experience to what you described. I can only speak for the regular cars as AMGs are out of my price range, but i would pick a 203 over a bmw 46 almost every time, with the A4 coming in (very)far behind. It offers so much for a car that size. I considered upgrading , but the W204 has a atrocious interior, at least pre facelift, if you sit in both back to back you'll notice.
I’ve said it time and time again, the 00’s were peak automotive!
No it wasn't. The 90's was the golden era of cars and peak automotive. Not hideous bland estates like this merc.
@@mokodorali5975I love 90’s cars but the build quality was terrible, technology no existent and reliable atrocious
@@TimLemonn what are you on about the build quality and reliability were vastly superior on the right cars, JDM and German. French, Italy, British of course were not so great.
Tech was spot on, you had the right amount, then tech tookmover in 2000's and ruined cars, everuthing isnelectronically assisted or computer controlled, taking away driver feel and engagement. Also the cars you had in the 90s is incomparable, the amount of sports cars and variety ofnother types of cars is unrivalled especially from JDM who were top tier, unmatched to.this day.
@@mokodorali5975 Am I to assume you’re in your late 40’s or above? As this would explain this perspective.
@@TimLemonn nope in my 30's
You need to take my W210 E55 for a spin! Looks like its the only one missing from that era on your channel
Jay, please get a W209 CLK on. Preferably a 320, 350 or 500 in a Avantgarde guise as it has the sports suspension as standard.
Maybe if the stars align for us both as I really want to see this video myself too, you could get a CLK 55 on.
Saw an ultra clean C55 estate in SE London today and now I see this video, beautiful motor
I remember meeting a very well spoken lady that ran a wedding catering company in Surrey. She pulled up in one of these, two dogs jumped with posh names jumped out the back and I thought I've never seen anything more 'old money' in my life.
I was actually eyeing one of these for a while.
Immediately noticed the Swiss plates 😁
Modern Classic indeed ❤️
These M113 engines are wonderful. Would love to own one some day
So much character over Modern AMG as a brand and philosophy. This car and other M113K, M156/M159, etc. powered big motor cars come from a time when AMG was about badassery and driving fun! Today's AMG can best be summed up as another anonymously dull corporate brick and not a professional skunkworks that was about making special cars out of the factory. M113/M113K is a legendary engine!
Surely that's Brabus you're talking about and not AMG? Brabus was the firm that took your run of the mill Mercedes/AMG and truly turned them into performance MONSTERS! Modern AMGs are the best versions they've ever made. They are much better built, more reliable, more effective and much, MUCH quicker than ever before. They are now the complete package and their engines are some of the highest powered in their class (often by a very large amount!)
@@davekennedy6315Are the modern ones really going to be more reliable then the 20 year old ones?
I have a 2002 clk55 but same engine/trans essentially. If you just leave it in 4th so it doesn’t go into 5th and let it do its thing it’s so much better than trying to shift it. Starts from 1st at stops still and if you boot it while already moving thing only has to downshift once or twice instead of 5th to 3rd or 2nd. Seems to hold whatever gear you’re in longer too.
Owner here. Fully agree. Sadly in Switzerland 50 is the limit on b roads so 3rd is more than enough, even for the odd dash to 60 or 65
I had CLK270CDI for 6 years, sold and replaced it with 2012 E250CDI 4matic. Been driving it for a year now and honestly I wish to go back to CLK, but this time M113 and 7gtronic gearbox, probably the best option as daily if you dont need the extra space.
If you want 7g tronic clk v8 then go for clk 550.
Only slk55 has m113 with 7gtronic
Great to read positive comments about the W203. My 195K mile C320 petrol estate is the best car I've ever had by some considerable margin.
One uncommon AMG for sure. Not C30 CDI AMG rare but then again I've never seen either out in the wild.
Love the W203. We have a 220D 2006. We've had it since new. Obviously nothing like this AMG but I love it still. The looks with the Avantgarde SE pack are fab. I do love the engine and autobox as well. A lot would say it was noisy, but I love the sound. It has a very distinct idle sound. On the move it's a lovely growl in the cabin and fades away at speed. It's got a great turbo whistle with the window open too. I find to drive, once you're moving the initial heaviness goes away and its very nimble. Guess it just suites my taste. Modern Mercedes I find are too perfect and soulless. I feel the same about most new stuff. All the noise, imperfections and feeling of speed that made cars special are gone. We now have cars that are about as exciting as fridges!
Perhaps the last 3 tenths are not meant for that chassis and engine combo. Perhaps go for a V6 auto (non AMG) and just enjoy it?
Good point, some cars regardless of sport or non sport aren't meant for those last 3 tenths. My 2006 Volvo S60 2.0T works best at 6 tenths max, best to ride the mid range torque and work with the old automatic
Discreet and swift - what isn’t to like. My C280 in full pipe and slippers colour and trim is a decent place to do miles whilst also embarrassing the odd boy racer so more of the same will be great.
The shirt looks like one of those posters from way back when, that when you stare at them for long enough, you still can't see a 3d image of an aquarium.
I had one of these for a couple of years, that's a really good review. I liked mine but just as you say, it's a seven-tenths car. Problem is the best I saw was 27mpg, plus it had the usual old-Merc issues (Crank Position sensor, driveshaft bearing, brakes, rusty arches etc). So then it's a bit of a commitment to run one, but it's not a heart-pounding sports car, so for me it wasn't worth the running costs to keep going with it as a 'daily'.
OTOH just as you say, if you can only have one car and need an estate, then yes it's a good choice.
I bought the 2019 version, smaller engine but almost up to date tech - it’s a glorious daily workhorse for crickets bags and dogs !
I always preferred the look of the wagon W203
Just bought one of these (also an estate) and this video was what convinced me to pull the trigger. Super happy with the car based on the drive back, it's a JDM import (I'm in NZ) with under 100k miles
Owner here. Honoured to hear this influenced your decision to pick one up 😊
@KingofInterns super happy with it and feel like jayemm didn't cover all the practical aspects of the car like the dog net you can put up or how the rear seats fold totally flat and is long enough to sleep in the back if you need to
@@milesjcarter pop the rear armrest down and you will also find a ski sock. I also use the roofrack during summer for bikes.
It seems like half the estates went to Japan!
@KingofInterns lucky! my one must not have that option there just a hard plastic piece attached with Allen bolts, could unbolt it I guess if do need ski hatch. It does come with this nice Japanese lady that talks to you though, good for learning foreign language 😂
@@milesjcarter fair enough! Hopefully yours does stay rust free though. I noticed rust advancing in the arch today.
2025 gearbox rebuild and new coil packs, pvc. 2026 bodywork
I love it.
7/10th is more than enough.
And here once again I am. On autotrader. Mentally spending money I don't have.
I don't like this era of Mercedes. They're not as nice as the 90s era stuff that was when Mercedes was ran by engineers and not accountants. But this car is seriously cool
James it’s a 20 year old fast tip run car. Not an M3 what do you want from the poor old thing. I think she’s amazing.
But he's not too keen on E46 m3s so Idk
luv to see a review on the super rare C30 CDI AMG 5cilinder and only diesel AMG ever made.
YES, really looking forward to see the CLK video, hope its a W208
Very accurate review. Certainly a lot of car for the money. I picked up an absolute minter sedan for $13K NZ dollars. The leather and other materials wear so well, and the suspension on mine has been well maintained - tight as a drum. I have only really driven it 10 tenths a couple of times through some twisty NZ roads, and was very impressed at how it hung on. It is a car that takes some getting used to, unlike a Golf Gti or a 335i beemer, that have a very natural and instant rapport with the driver {at least in my case}, it takes some time to figure out the best way to drive, and trust the Merc. Hitting the apex correctly is a must, and slow in/ fast out gives you better results. My only real harsh critisism is that it doesn't come with a proper LSD - this would really transform the car, as the rear end constantly twists under load. It can be retro fitted of course, but with the low value of the car , is it worth it? I do love starting it up, and get a bit of a kick out of it, knowing, that not many people know what it is, and that is is rarer than a Ferrari 488. Enjoy
great car, the font end change I would never have noticed; the lengths manufacturers go to to get a good car to market! Would also add the similar vanguards of the sunroof are surely Subaru, also historically a producer of some very interesting estate cars. CHeers!
I used to own one of these about 15 years ago!
Very nice thing. Very fast. Had an annoyingly small fuel tank! 😂
Agreed! This example however can get around 600km at a stretch on the highway. Enough range for most.
Cruised at 70mph for 300km im convoy with a friends Tesla model Y. Petrol tank was over half full while Tesla had 30% range left 👍
The Merc C series estate W203 was the best looking estate car ever made. Just elegant unlike its successor that was crap looking.
*deep sigh
*opens up autoscout
Every damn time.
The estate is the only one to get unlike the ordinary saloon!
Looks like a good one! Some nice upgrades by the owner too. Slightly envious of those brakes.
Bit of an error removing the original wheels for a couple of reasons:
1. They look fantastic.
2. They are specific to the C55 and give the car a wider track than regular 203’s and the CLK55.
The car certainly shouldn’t feel unsettled mid-corner either. My guess is that the hydro bushing in the rear upright is goosed. It was on mine and it had done less than 100k miles.
Owner here. Sadly the car only came with AMG III wheels which have the same offset as these Hoedus wheels.
I love my e320. Economically, quick, and with 2 jump seats, wildly practical.
i need it i have c55 sedan but it is definitely one of the best AMGs ever made
I bought my 2005 C55 new and used it daily to get to work. No better way to transport your self, until I bought an Audi S5. Have to say, the C55 is an awesome people hauler. Also, the original wheels look a lot better than these after market ones.
The C55 is a peach but finding one…. Not easy
A freind had an E Class of this generation, a 3 litre turbo diesel one. It went very well but rusted even faster. Are the C Class ones of this era less rust prone ? The front shocks came through the suspension towers on his E.
Post 2004 yes. Facelift w203 is what you want basically.
Lovely review video
As someone who owned a CLS of this era, stay well clear unless you enjoy something always being broken
funny how depending on type and locatoin the S changed. the uk manual for our W211 shows comfort and standard mode (hence the s mode isnt sporty)
While you can pick them up for what seems to be a very reasonable price. Set aside a good chunk of cash for spares, they haven't depreciated.
MB parts are really cheap! Buy a BMW and then you will learn
C55 is the cheapest AMG to maintain but yes dont kid yourself on costs if you plan to drive it all over like this one (owner here).
No 20 year old car driven a lot can avoid parts needing to be changed as they wear out
@@KingofInterns I put my money where my mouth is and since last weekend I own a C55. Really liking It, should be even better once I fix It up.
@@antonio.9698 Happy driving it is a fantastic car. Look after her and she will look after you :)
Random comment JayEmm. You do this well. Live long and prosper. 👍
Why the frick would you tell on this car?? Leave it to the enthusiasts to save up for!
Haha yeah true. I might be swaying to one, coming from an Alfa Romeo 147 GTA.
The Pound Shop Clarkson. Great syrup
If you can, try finding the C30 CDI AMG Sportcoupe. I think that was the one and only diesel AMG ever made (I'm sure someone will correct me on that one if not outright calling me a hypocrite). Also, to be honest I was not really a fan of the W203-gen C-Class with its peanut eyes but sharp taillight. Kind of mismatched. And unfortunately the subsequent W204 and 205 were proper lookers. I do like the CLK though.
Also is that a Gallardo 560 that I see on the title card?
that shirt though; didn't know I suffered from migraines... until now. Can't continue !
What about SLK55 AMG?
the 5g gearbox is goated in my opinion it just needs a little bit of finesse. i like it better than the 7g gearbox, the weakest point on the 5g gearbox id say is downshifting. on 7g downshifting feels much much better
I live in the US someone on my street owns one these cars. they are a common sight
Not C55 version :) you guys dont get amg c-class wagons over there.
I suppost in 2030 you could import one..
@KingofInterns true idk why we don't have them it's like the skyline and tvr .why can't we
Funny I was just looking at a c55 sedan 😮
As much as I love the W204 C63 and many of the other AMGs from the 2010s era, I genuinely believe they simply aren't as cool (or better, or more reliable) compared to the late 90s/ early 00s models. The W211 E55 is my all-time favourite but its siblings, including this C55, aren't too far behind. With the later cars, Mercedes started going more and more aggressive with the styling and suspension, whereas these earlier cars felt more everyday-sensible, that just happened to have really special engines, AND look insanely cool while at it. Credit to the owner of this one for keeping it in absolutely mint condition!
Owner here. Thanks mate. For most it is just an old mercedes estate. For me it is the pinnacle of Mercedes. Well engineered, reliable, daily driverable and robust. Then it is completely under the radar and elegant in its own way. W204 c63 was a complete departure from that
Sadly with age things start to wear out but then the same can be said for anything
@@KingofInterns Great car you've got there mate! I doubt a lot of people would know what this car is when they see it, even those who do like cars.
I love my 335i touring, it’s been worked on with engine mods and full m3 suspension brakes and proper mechanical diff, gives a c63 a hurry up🇦🇺
I had a W211 E55AMG to replace an e60 M5 that was stolen. The M5 was the better drive by a long way. The Merc was more comfortable and usable but airmatic suspension and sbc brakes were a pain. Needlessly complicated for little obvious gain. I now have a C6 RS6 V10 so have completed the late noughties German nutter saloon trilogy 😂
When I saw the color of the calipers the first thought that crossed my mind was…rust. Personal opinion, silver or black. I’ve got a silver E400 and the silver calipers blend in beautifully. But, that’s just my taste. The content was great and I’m looking for one on Auto Tempest.
I agree, the car is too classy to have those kind of colours. Even red calipers on a CLK Black Series would be no go 😂
These are fantastic cars, sound great, look good and theyre not crazy expensive.
There is currently 3 on auto trader and one only has 14,000 miles from new, see what you think
Whenever I see W203 wagon, I think of the silver C320 in Mr and Mrs Smith.
I have this rims on my 180K '07 😅
another brilliant car we didn't get on this side of the pond :(
Hope AMG used a different rear subframe - my ordinary s203's rear subframe dissolved with rust
Nope, same problem on these. Only positive is that they may be worth enough for someone to pay to refurb them (DynoTorque had done the one I had for the PO).
Solution for the revs - rear dif from a 500 or a diesel
The 55 kompressors have that dif and you are at 100mph with 3000rpm
Owner here. I considered the swap as I do a lot of miles however apparently the whole drivetrain has to come out and be swapped not just the diff. Gearbox and everything.
This from the guys at PCS horndean who know these cars inside out.
Just not worth it sadly.
@@KingofInterns well, i had the clk500 and clk55 at the same time one time, and they looked exatly the same from underneath with same gearbox, propshafts and different difs. and i liked driveing the 500 so much more just because of the longer gears. Got a cls55 right now. Best of both worlds :) much power, forced induction, long gears and a very nice upgraded limited slip
@@KingofInterns I loved your car though. Very tasteful wheels, suits it so much. Wish he responded to my email when I had a CLK320 B9 brabus.. That was quite something :)
Great car 🎉
I very nearly bought the saloon version of this and ended up with an Audi S4 instead. At some point I will get one.
Hitting many nails on many heads Mr Emm! Looking forwards to your CLK55 content… was interested to hear the C55 had an LSD, suspect you might find some sins in low speed traction zones with the CLK55 if it is lacking one. They’re a pig to launch well as std 🤣
You would have this over an early 6.2 E63 estate?
(Asked before watching)
The first AMG C class actually had a 6 cylinder engine, a 3.6 i6. It was later in the life cycle of the W202 that the C43 AMG with the V8 was produced. Those are rarer than the C36. I don't think Mercedes-Benz made a V8 C Class wagon after the W204, there was the W205 C43 AMG, but that had a 6 cylinder engine. The C63 was sedan or coupe only, IIRC.
Yes, the C36 is rare in the states.
S205 C63S AMG existed
I'll never be able to afford any of the cars mentioned in the video but I couldn't get past the auto in the Mercedes or the fact corrosion was still a problem for Mercedes during this era.
The rust issue was sorted by 2004.
Most of the cars after 2004 seem to be ok.
I have the 350 CLK Sport Cabriolet 2006 and there is not a spot of rust anywhere on my car.
She has done 74000 miles .
Immaculate really.
The early cars did have issues, yes.
We have 2004 200 Compressor wagon , with over 404000miles on the clock
Which I bought for my dad to enjoy in his retirement. To replace his E39 540I wagon
The Merc is a better dog wagon!.
I think this Wagon is better than a lot of cars I’ve owned that cost 3 times as much.
Lovely to drive
What is the brake kit conversion? they don't look like stock c55 callipers
AMG sport package option along with LSD (from factory).
Brembo 6 piston at front and 4 at rear
TY 🙏🙏
this with a manual would be so good
So the one to go for is the E class.. got it
is the 300c 5.7 a better wagon ?
I had a W203 coupe, it was junk and broke down a lot. It hadn't even done that many miles, although maybe the previous owner had not treated it very well. I had the 2.3 model.
Owner here. Pre face lift w203 was generally not good and had corrosion issues like the w202 and w210.
2005-2007 however w203/s203 became really good. Far better cabin than w204 that followed
@@KingofInterns For some reason I'm compelled to buy another one... but a pre-facelift model. I prefer the looks. I guess you can't help what you like.
im liking the shirt Abdul Jay Emmirati
You guys get the coolest wagons. We get absolute shite over here.
The suspension on these German cars on British roads plays havoc on reliability
I want one! 😊
I don't think you buy an AMG Merc for fast derives around country lanes. The fact that the wheels were a different diameter and wearing cross-climate tyres, may have compromised the ride and handling a little.
Summer tyres.
Continental premium contact 7 at front and 6 at rear. Good quality rubber
I can probably sort out the suspension but at great cost and I dont push this beyond 6/10s usually anyway.
Besides road surface in Switzerland is generally better so more difficult to upset it
@@KingofInterns it's a perfect car then.
@@rupertorgan7749perfect is a high bar to set but I like it yes :)
It is getting a bit long in the tooth though with the issues that brings
Nothing wrong with the name Pat, I'd have kept it
A car like this raises the age-old question in my mind: if it's just OK on motorways as well as b-roads, why not just get a high capacity diesel? After all, I don't think it was the AMG badge or the V8 that made these cars good.