The Mercedes-Benz CLC 200 Kompressor Automatic, produced between April 2008 and February 2011, was a coupe variant within the CLC (CL203) model range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it aimed to provide a blend of performance and comfort within the compact executive coupe segment. The CLC itself was essentially a three-door coupe derived from the C-Class sedan (W203), offering a sportier aesthetic and a more focused driving experience. This particular 200 Kompressor model, equipped with a supercharged 1.8-liter engine and a five-speed automatic transmission, represented a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance between efficiency and respectable power.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLC |
| Generation | CLC (CL203) |
| Type (Engine) | CLC 200 Kompressor (184 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 2008 |
| End of production | February, 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.6 l/100 km (20.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 231 km/h (143.54 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 2800 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 271.957 |
| Engine displacement | 1796 cm3 (109.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1950 kg (4299.01 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 310 l (10.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1100 l (38.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4452 mm (175.28 in.) |
| Width | 1728 mm (68.03 in.) |
| Height | 1405 mm (55.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16V |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CLC 200 Kompressor is the M271.957 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is notable for its supercharger, a mechanical device driven by the engine’s crankshaft via a belt, which forces more air into the cylinders than natural aspiration would allow. This results in increased power output without the turbo lag often associated with turbocharged engines. The supercharger, coupled with an intercooler to reduce intake air temperature, produces 184 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque at 2800 rpm. Fuel is delivered via multi-port fuel injection, and the engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The five-speed automatic transmission, a common unit in Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era, provides smooth shifts but lacks the efficiency of more modern transmissions with a greater number of gears.
Driving Characteristics
The CLC 200 Kompressor Automatic offered a comfortable and relatively refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8.3 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 143.54 mph. While not a sports car, the supercharged engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat sluggish compared to the available six-speed manual transmission, particularly during quick downshifts. The gear ratios were tuned for comfort and fuel economy rather than outright performance. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to balanced handling, although it wasn’t as sharp or engaging as some of its competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CLC 200 Kompressor Automatic typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, and a basic audio system. Upholstery was generally cloth, although leather options were available. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, navigation, and sport seats. The trim level could vary depending on the market, but generally, the 200 Kompressor sat in the middle of the CLC range, offering more features than the base models but lacking the premium appointments of the higher-spec CLC 350.
Chassis & Braking
The CLC 200 Kompressor utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and reasonable handling. Brakes consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over aggressive cornering. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll, but they were typically smaller in diameter than those found on the more powerful CLC 350 models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CLC 200 Kompressor Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a stylish and comfortable coupe. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could detract from the driving experience, and the engine, while adequate, wasn’t as exciting as the larger engines available in the CLC range. Compared to the CLC 350, the 200 Kompressor offered significantly lower running costs and a more accessible price point. Against competitors like the Audi TT and BMW 1 Series Coupe, the CLC 200 Kompressor offered a more luxurious interior and a more comfortable ride, but lacked the same level of sporting prowess.
Legacy
The M271 engine, in general, proved to be a relatively reliable unit, although the supercharger can require maintenance over time. Common issues include belt wear and potential problems with the electromagnetic clutch. The five-speed automatic transmission is generally durable but can exhibit wear and tear with high mileage. Today, the CLC 200 Kompressor Automatic represents an affordable entry point into the Mercedes-Benz coupe world. Well-maintained examples are still relatively common on the used car market, offering a stylish and comfortable driving experience for those seeking a compact executive coupe.
