Mercedes-Benz C-Class

4 chassis covered · 2007–2021 · 12 engine variants

Generations

ChassisBodyYearsEnginesMAvg riskPrice spanCharacter
W204sedan2007–20144–R3€2,600–€15,250The quiet one of the three. Softer and less involving than an E90, better built than a B8 inside, and the one whose faults are concentrated in the engine bay rather than spread across the car.
S204wagon2008–20144–R3€2,750–€16,000The saloon with a useful boot and no real penalty. The estate rides marginally softer and costs a few hundred more.
W205sedan2014–20212–R3€10,500–€24,000A smaller S-Class in feel, quieter and softer than a 3 Series and better finished inside than anything else in the class. It's the most comfortable car of its size here.
S205wagon2014–20212–R3€10,900–€24,950The W205 with a longer roof and a boot that's usable rather than generous. It's as refined as the saloon and a much better all-rounder.

Timeline

Chassis070809101112131415161718192021
W204●●●●◐●●●
S204●●●◐●●●
W205●●●●◐●●●
S205●●●●◐●●●

● in production · ◐ facelift year, the changeover often splits engines mid-year, so verify the engine code rather than the registration date.

Which generation should you buy