2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The 2005 C-Class lineup receives an exterior styling refresh, and interior changes include a new dash, redesigned seats and some subtle...
The 2005 C-Class lineup receives an exterior styling refresh, and interior changes include a new dash, redesigned seats and some subtle trim enhancements. A new audio system with six speakers and a CD player is now standard in all models. The C320 wagon has also been dropped for 2005.
Other changes include an improved short-throw six-speed manual transmission and a new suspension system. A DVD-based navigation system is now optional, but the Mercedes service program has been discontinued.
There are nine trim levels in the 2005 C-Class lineup. A tenth variant, the C55, gets its own model designation due to AMG enhancements. All models come standard with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate controls, an interior air filter, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, a CD player, and a trip computer.
The C230 Sport Coupe is the entry point, housing a supercharged 1.8 liter inline four. This engine provides 189 horsepower, and is also found in the C230 Sport Sedan. The second tier C320 Coupe is similarly equipped, but it upgrades to a 3.2 liter V-6, which generates 215 horsepower. The C230 Coupe also has a Sport Sedan counterpart, which adds leather upholstery, a power driver's seat, and illuminated visor mirrors. The C320 Sport Sedan adds a power tilt/telescope steering wheel, ten-way power front seats, a memory system for the driver seat, aluminum interior accents, and a Harman/Kardon sound system to the C320 Coupe's equipment list. This sedan is also available with AWD.
Positioned between the C230 and C320 Sport Sedans are the C240 Luxury Sedan and Wagon. This trim adds a few additional features and is also available with Mercedes' 4-Matic all-wheel drive system. The C240 is powered by a 2.6 liter V6, which makes 168 horsepower.
C-Class options are largely dependent on trim levels, but there are a few notable packages. The C230, C240, C320 Sport Coupe are all eligible for an Entertainment Package, which adds a harmon/kardon audio system and an a six-disc CD changer. The C230 Sport Sedan, C230/C320 Sport Coupe, C240, C320 sedan, C55 are all available with an optional navigation system.
The Mercedes C-Class lineup would be slimmed considerably for the following year, but in 2005, this group offered a variety of body style, power plant, and drive train options. Reviewers praised the C-Class for its powerful V6 engines and cutting edge safety and luxury appointments. Unfortunately, the C-Class features rather pedestrian interior styling, and value in class is rather questionable compared to options like the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class rave about its sporty performance and luxurious features. They appreciate the car's reliability, handling, and the quality of the interior. However, some drivers mention that minor issues can arise if the vehicle isn't well maintained, and there are complaints regarding the backseat space and the high maintenance costs associated with owning a luxury vehicle."
I love this car as an every day driver. Looks good, drives very well. Its the perfect mixture of a good ride and handling. Acceleration is decent with the 6 speed manual trans. The automatics in this vehicle are pretty gutless. The interior is comfortable and stylish. The ride is very quiet and no rattles or noises to annoy me like most other cars. I get 30 plus miles per gallon. As with all German vehicles oil changes are scheduled every 13-20k but I still change mine every 5k. I bought the car brand new in 05 and it now has over 100k miles. I have never had any issues. Just normal maintenance.
May 24, 2011Timeless design and very sporty looking. Handles very well and confidently. Good quality and good sound system even without the Harman/ Kardon option. Would definitely recommend a 2005-2007 C class. I have a 2007 c230 sport and I’ve loved it since I’ve bought it. Never has had any issues .
July 19, 2022Super eye-catching, quick spirited, fun to drive vehicle take loves the open road! Extremely powerful, yet very comfortable handling at all speeds. I would definitely recommend to purchase and ownership of the Mercedes Benz C230 Kompressor at any level of driver.
January 30, 2014What owners say
I love this car as an every day driver. Looks good, drives very well. Its the perfect mixture of a good ride and handling. Acceleration is decent with the 6 speed manual trans. The automatics in this vehicle are pretty gutless. The interior is comfortable and stylish. The ride is very quiet and no rattles or noises to annoy me like most other cars. I get 30 plus miles per gallon. As with all German vehicles oil changes are scheduled every 13-20k but I still change mine every 5k. I bought the car brand new in 05 and it now has over 100k miles. I have never had any issues. Just normal maintenance.
May 24, 2011Timeless design and very sporty looking. Handles very well and confidently. Good quality and good sound system even without the Harman/ Kardon option. Would definitely recommend a 2005-2007 C class. I have a 2007 c230 sport and I’ve loved it since I’ve bought it. Never has had any issues .
July 19, 2022Super eye-catching, quick spirited, fun to drive vehicle take loves the open road! Extremely powerful, yet very comfortable handling at all speeds. I would definitely recommend to purchase and ownership of the Mercedes Benz C230 Kompressor at any level of driver.
January 30, 2014With 362 brake horse power my C55 can be scary fast! Taking the car onto the track for a full weekend of driving proved to be easy, the brakes never faded, the handling was great, predictable and confidence inspiring. Build quality is way up there of course, a very solid well made car. The car is a Q ship, does not scream attention, but those who know what AMG means, it says volumes. Gas mileage is not great, about 17 mpg, but I did not buy it for fuel economy! The extended warranty has been great to cover the things that wear out and break, maintenance is no greater then any other high end car. The Fun Factor is why I got the car, and on the road or track the grins and smiles never fade or get old.
August 11, 2011When I was in the market for a new car, I chose this over others. I had driven one as a loaner car and was amazed at the ride and handling. Since then we moved a household 300 miles with many trips and no issues. It also looks great, with lovely lines. Overall this has been a terrific car
July 17, 2012Normal car, torque from low revs really helps for powerslides and economy, top-notch build quality, amazing brakes and handling thanks to evolution pack, the exterior styling could be better in the rear section, interior is very nice looking, although the space in the back isn't enough for a tall person, gas mileage is very good(in long trips you can get below 8 L/km), maintenance cost is quite high since it's a Mercedes, the car is generally really good and after the tyres are warmed up you can have a very good drive.
January 23, 2010I have owned my 2005 c230k for 13 yrs putting 205000 mile on her. Other than basic maintainable check ups, and new engine valve gasket at 180000, she has serviced well. She is due for a new catalytic converter after 15 yrs, but after that should last me another 15 yrs if kept up.
November 21, 2020I love a sedan that behaves like a true sports car. With the C55, I have just enough power, I feel connected to the road and yet it's comfortable enough that I can take it for long drives. The build is solid. Nothing about this car is looks cheap. The sound system is great though I must say most of the sounds are in the front of the cabin. I don't like the fact the steering is too heavy. The brakes are great. It's sits an inch lower and an inch wider than the other C-Class models I believe. The front end slopes down sharper than the other models as well.
November 29, 2013Very tight and sporty! Supercharger sounds and feels nice! This car is well built. It has the sport package. Excellent brakes and full of safety equipment. Nice sounding sound system and is fully loaded. Feels safe and very responsive. Love it!
February 16, 2012Rides good, runs great and drives superb! Average fuel economy is over 26 MPG and I have a very heavy foot. What an awesome car to drive. This car is truely a blessing!No doubt, I will buy Mercedes in the future.
March 18, 2010Trims & specs
Base MSRP $54,620 | Seating 5 |
Engine 5.4L 362 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 12.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $26,570 | Seating 4 |
Engine 1.8L 189 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 9.9 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $28,970 | Seating 4 |
Engine 3.2L 215 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 9.9 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $34,570 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.6L 168 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 12.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 20 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $38,670 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.2L 215 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle | Cargo Capacity 12.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 21 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $29,970 | Seating 5 |
Engine 1.8L 189 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 12.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $33,370 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.6L 168 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle | Cargo Capacity 12.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 20 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $36,070 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.6L 168 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 25.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $39,870 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.2L 215 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 12.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 20 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $34,870 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.6L 168 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle | Cargo Capacity 25.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 20 | Drivetrain RWD |
