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To C7 or not to C7, that is the question

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Old 09-17-2002, 06:41 PM
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To C7 or not to C7, that is the question

Looking at the '03 C230; incredible deals in the Bay Area.

Strictly for looks, I don't see a big advantage in the C7 - stock is nice, too. But subjectively (or objectively), how significant is the handling advantage of the 17" package over stock? And is the impact in ride quality just as significant?
Old 09-17-2002, 06:49 PM
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Unless you are getting a stick I think its not worth it. There is nothing in the package that effects the ride quality other than the wheels (no suspension mods). But, if you are getting a manual its worth it as I've heard the shift quality is much improved over stock.
Old 09-17-2002, 06:51 PM
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i would go for it..it looks better for $750...I should have gotten it but too late now...the wheels alone cost more than 750...then the door handles ..i would say go for it...
Old 09-17-2002, 07:06 PM
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look around the forum...and u will see ppl complaining about the so called "larger exhaust" (which i dont see), the blackend door handle...the 17' wheels...and the shifter (which i myself didnt get to experience)

But, if you are planning to mod your BLACK coupe (which blends in with the handle)...maybe you should think twice.
Old 09-17-2002, 07:38 PM
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Re: To C7 or not to C7, that is the question

Originally posted by JHunter
Looking at the '03 C230; incredible deals in the Bay Area.

Strictly for looks, I don't see a big advantage in the C7 - stock is nice, too. But subjectively (or objectively), how significant is the handling advantage of the 17" package over stock? And is the impact in ride quality just as significant?
To me, it's a no-brainer. Wheels alone, even if you do dislike them, will bring you more cash (if sold) than the cost of the entire C7 package. That said, I do prefer the look of the C7 17" wheels over the base 16" ones. If you want comfort and don't want to subject yourself to the hassle associated with selling/bying/swapping wheels - you may want to stick with base; otherwise go for the C7. Short shifter makes quite a difference, too. Aluminum pedals also look nice, and the thumb rests on the steering wheel are a plus, as well.

Last edited by vadim; 09-17-2002 at 07:42 PM.
Old 09-17-2002, 08:00 PM
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Re: Re: To C7 or not to C7, that is the question

Originally posted by vadim
To me, it's a no-brainer. Wheels alone, even if you do dislike them, will bring you more cash (if sold) than the cost of the entire C7 package. That said, I do prefer the look of the C7 17" wheels over the base 16" ones. If you want comfort and don't want to subject yourself to the hassle associated with selling/bying/swapping wheels - you may want to stick with base; otherwise go for the C7. Short shifter makes quite a difference, too. Aluminum pedals also look nice, and the thumb rests on the steering wheel are a plus, as well.
Couldn't have said it better myself..I can assure you that you WILL be able to sell your C7 rims for more than the price of the entire option. I personally love the wheels. I like the color coded handles, aluminium pedals, and the raised thumbs on the wheel. It is very much worth it. If your getting a stick its arguably the best option you can get
Old 09-17-2002, 09:20 PM
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When I ordered mine (14 months ago), C7 was described as nothing more than 17"s and painted door handles, and I couldn't even get the sales people to admit that it was really available. I passed.

In hindsight, I wish I got it. I'm fine with the stock shifter, but the C7's really seems nicer. Add in the rest of the stuff, and all told, it's probably worth it.
Old 09-17-2002, 11:04 PM
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Value for the money wise it's definitely worth it.

I liked the 7-spoke 17" wheels. If you are going to switch wheels these probably have more resale value.

If you want a manual the short-throw shifter apparently has better feel (I only ever drove a non-C7 once, during the test drive). If you opt for the automatic all you get is a different shifter boot.

I liked the steering wheel with the extra thumb grips and the body colored door handles, the pedals and door sills really didn't make much difference to me. The larger exhaust tip is very subtle.

Cheers, BT

PS: I see more people on this forum regretting not getting the C7.
Old 09-17-2002, 11:05 PM
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I'll ring in too...

Just took delivery of mine and wish I would have ordered C7. I didn't want the 17's, but would have been much happier with the rest of the package (especially the short throw shifter) and then could have swapped the wheels with a stocker.

Hindsight 20/20!
Old 09-17-2002, 11:10 PM
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DO IT!
Old 09-17-2002, 11:20 PM
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Originally posted by trench
If you opt for the automatic all you get is a different shifter boot.
actually, you get a smaller completely leather covered funky little shifter... can we get a big WHOOP!
Old 09-17-2002, 11:23 PM
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2002 C230 K
Originally posted by young
actually, you get a smaller completely leather covered funky little shifter... can we get a big WHOOP!
Oops... Sorry I meant the shifter handle was different not the boot. My bad

young, you forgot to mention that in other countries the Evolution/C7 option comes with different floor mats - with a little flap for the dead pedal region.



BT
Old 09-17-2002, 11:25 PM
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GLB 250 4matic
Originally posted by trench
young, you forgot to mention that in other countries the Evolution/C7 option comes with different floor mats - with a little flap for the dead pedal region.



BT
you know you want it!

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