2001 Mercedes-Benz C-Class T-Modell (S203) 180 5AT RWD (129 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Mercedes-Benz introduced the second generation of its C-Class entry-level sedan in 2000, internally codenamed the W203, and it completely changed the way the carmaker’s models looked and felt. Less than a year later, it was followed by the C-Class T-Modell, codenamed S203, which was the station wagon version of the model.

The most obvious change compared to its predecessors was the notable design language shift in this iteration of the C-Class. The ‘four-eyed’ look reintroduced by the E-Class W210 generation was modernized and brought to the 21st century in the W203 C-Class. While the then-old E-Class W210 already featured four oval headlights, a similar change for its baby brother was introduced, only this time, the two headlamps on each side were interconnected, and the overall design was more fluid.

The wedge-shaped profile ended with a somewhat high trunk line, accompanied on each side by a pair of triangle-shaped taillights not dissimilar to those found on the S-Class W220.

Compared to its two direct German rivals, the BMW 3 Series Touring E46/3 and Audi A4 Avant 8H, the C-Class T-Modell S203 came with an extensive list of standard features no matter the trim level, overshadowing both its predecessor and its competitors at the time.

Key standard features included air conditioning, cruise control, automatic headlights and windshield wipers, and the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which was still offered only as an option even on rivals from higher segments.

The twin headlights on the front were Halogen but included an option for Xenon, while the side mirrors with integrated turn signals not only looked stylish but also improved safety. You would think that the model’s hunched profile at the rear and compact size made it look fashionable without offering the largest luggage compartment in its segment, but you would be wrong.

The stylish curved tailgate opened up to a trunk capacity ranging from 485 liters (17.1 cu-ft) to 1,500 liters (53 cu-ft), similar to what Mercedes-Benz offers on larger, more modern C-Class models.

Identical to the W203 sedan, the S203 C-Class T-Modell sported a distinctive dashboard design with a large speedometer situated right in the middle and a standard onboard computer display. Its main downside was the lack of a coolant-temperature gauge, which the driver could access only via the onboard computer menu.

Passenger space was adequate in the front but not as ample for the rear passengers, who suffered from the relatively short wheelbase and compact length.

Engine-wise, Mercedes-Benz kept some powerplants from its predecessor but also introduced a newly developed line of common-rail diesel engines and supercharged gasoline four-cylinders.

Apart from the U.S. market, where the T-Modell wasn’t available anyway, the standard transmission for the four-cylinder versions was a six-speed manual. A newly developed 5-speed automatic transmission called 5G-Tronic was available either as an option or standard for the most powerful versions.

The powertrain lineup comprised inline-four and V6 engines, both gasoline, and diesel, and ranged from the C 180 with 129 PS (127 HP) to the mighty C 32 AMG, which featured a supercharged, 3.2-liter V6 with 354 PS (349 HP).