berrill

I have a 2002 C Class Coupe (1.8 litre compressor engine) this car has given me endless problems, from endless rattles to failing ABS.

Due to my frustration I have upgraded to a 2003 model, im expecting it next month. Are there any changes from the 2002 to the 2003 models of the C Class Coupe? I have heard something about the seatbelts and a wind deflector. Both Cars have the Evolution package.

Thanking you

Antony (Cape Town South Africa)

R4ND0M_AX3

Here is what I've found in comparing '02 to '03 US coupes.

Deletion of cold air wheel between center dash vents.
Possible deletion of control wheel for upper dash vent.
Possible addition of "1.8" badge on front fenders.
Different control stalks on steering colum (shape and response to movement is different)
Possible addition wind deflector on roof.
Possible addition seat belt extenders.
Deletion of mechanical lock on trunk.
Relabeling of button on climate controls from "EC/Rest" to "AC Off".
Deletion of error icon in lower right corner of MFD (looks like two squares).
Bi-Xenon available in C4 package.
Relocate power seat option (C1) steering wheel control switch from door to a lever on lower part of steering colum.
Tunnel mode works with the sunroof by default.
Tires may have changed.
And of course the engine change from the M111 to a M271.

steffen

I think they eliminated the REST mode as well - apart from relabeling that button.

R4ND0M_AX3

Rest still works for my 2003. At least the fan comes on at a low speed. Not sure if there is supposed to be anything else going on.

galaxygrrl

I thought the 2002's only came with a 2.3 engine, not a 1.8 are you sure about your engine? Maybe in another country it's a different story.

I hope your new car is better!

Lynn

The 2002 coupes come in 1.8 and 2.0 versions in addtion to the 2.3 in many countries. Berrill is in South Africa.

berrill

In 2002 we had a new spec change. The C230K Coupe changed from a 2.3 compressor motor to a 1.8 Compressor of similar power, albeit lower torque.

The car still retained its original 2.3 Compressor signage on the rear. These cars are imported from Germany; we can tell the spec change quite easily as the old 2.3 engine has a bright red tappet cover whilst the new 1.8 has a matt black tappet cover.

It seems as if there has been a change in the design of the sunroof in the 2003 model, I just hope my new 2003 model has the new design. I will look for the changes as identified by R4ND0M_AX3 and Steffen.

Are these cars popular in the US? In South Africa we favour small engine cars with excellent handling, i.e. the C230K. The USA seems to favour larger cars with much larger engines where road handling is not much a criteria. With this in mind what has been the reaction to this car.

Thanks for all your advise I hope I have better luck with the new one.

jpb5151

There seem to be plenty of people buying both styles of car here (central Ohio, USA). OTOH, our MB dealer told us that their 230K's are selling very quickly and seem to be the latest popular thing.

MBSJ

I have 2002 C230 Coupe and I took in for first service A. I got to drive 2003 C230 as a loaner from the dealer. 2003 model definitely got the smoother (and quieter) engine. And also 2003 model is a bit more tighter and comfortable however I still like my 2002 C230 for more torque and bigger engine.