For many decades, the compact executive sedan scene were dominated by two Teutonic protagonists: The Mercedes-Benz C-Class and BMW 3 Series. It represented an entry point for young professionals to aspire to, as a social and status symbol. Today, we take a deeper look into the W204-generation C-Class.

In doing so, we give you a rundown on the W204 C-Class' prices today, reasons why you should buy one, and also what to look out for when scouting for one. By the time you finish this, you'd probably be going through the classifieds. Here we go.

Which W204 C-Class variant to get?

The W204 Mercedes-Benz C-Class was launched in Malaysia in 2007. Initially, only two variants were available, both C200 Kompressor (C200K) models, one in Elegance trim, the other Avantgarde. Powering the C200K is a 1.8-litre, supercharged 4-cylinder making 184 PS and 250 Nm, paired to a 5-speed automatic transmission. 

A C230 Avantgarde soon followed, packing 201 PS and 245 Nm from its 2.5-litre, V6 engine. A 7-speed automatic was paired for duty here. Some time in 2010, both these engines were replaced with a newer, 1.8-litre, turbocharged 4-cylinder with two states of tune: C200 CGI (184 PS, 270 Nm) and C250 CGI (204 PS, 310 Nm). Both variants were paired to a 5-speed automatic (curious).

A facelift came in 2011, boasting revisions both on the inside and out. The CGI powertrains soldiered on with the same output, but gained two extra forward cogs with the new 7-speed automatic transmission. 

Yes, engine and transmission options are rather confusing for the W204 generation C-Class. A quick search indicates that early, pre-facelift C200K models can now be had for RM 40k. Meanwhile, you can bag a final facelift C250 CGI model for just a smidge under RM 90k.

Our pick of the W204 models would be the facelifted C200 CGI. You can pick one up for around RM 60k (2011 unit). Why? A 2011 car can still be financed, and you'd be getting an a car that Mercedes has made improvements to, inside out. The CGI engines are also less finicky (more on that below). 

Also read: Timeless, beautiful, desirable. The Mercedes 190E is all of these things to me

Why buy a W204 C-Class?

First of all, this is the best looking C-Class in a while, since the lineage started with the W202. The exterior design of the W204 is so elegant and versatile, it looks effortlessly suave in the traditional Elegance trim, and also sublty aggresive in the sportier Avantgarde kit.

Facelift or not, the W204 looks properly classy and chiselled in a way that its nemesis, the E90 BMW 3 Series is not. In fact, the W204 C-Class makes the E90 3-er look a little bulbous and clumsy. Safe to say, the W204 C-Class' lines have aged very well, something you can't really say about its BMW counterpart. 

Stepping inside, you're greeted with a well-appointed interior that typifies Mercedeses of this era. Build quality and materials are pretty much par for the course in a compact executive sedan such as this. There are a few interior colour choices, but best stick with a predominantly black trim as the brighter hues looks rather.... boring.

For most part, everything is well laid-out and ergonomically sound, save for some small niggles. What are they? The infotainment stack can get confusing as it is a confetti of buttons. Plus, the controls for the electric front seats are located at the doors, which might confuse users who are used to seat-mounted controls. 

Another minor complaint would be that of the driving position. The steering wheel position is offset slight to the left, while the pedals offset in the opposite direction. Once you realise it, you won't be able to unsee it. But it's something you'll learn to live with. Nonetheless, odd from a car maker that's been around for 95 years and counting. 

Thankfully, the W204 C-Class preceded a time when Mercedes started using steering column-mounted gear selectors. None of that nonsense here, you get a proper gear selector where it ought to be: the center console. 

Then you get moving, and realise that this is still a Mercedes-Benz, which means ride comfort is still one of its strong suits. For most part, the C-Class rides with a level of sophistication not found in this segment. Most road imperfections are soaked up in a well-damped and nonchalant manner. 

On the handling side, well.... let's just say that the W204 isn't going to outhandle nor outdrive its eternal rival from Bavaria. That's not to say the C-Class handles poorly. For most part, the driving experience can be described as... pleasant.

The steering is light and easy to operate, but devoid of any feedback. The transmission goes through the gears with utmost smoothness, not speed. The throttle response is relaxed and honey-coated, not razor-sharp like a racecar, and is all the better for it. 

In a word, serenity is the priority here. It knows what it is and makes no apologies for it. Look elsewhere for driving engagement. What's more, W204 C-Classes all have a capacious 475-litre boot that can more than handle most loads you care to throw at it. A graceful yet sporty sedan, that seats four comfortably and is practical at the same time? Lovely.

Also read: RM 5k for a used W124 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Masterpiece. Common problems? Here are some

Would it cost an arm and a leg to maintain or repair? 

With the exception of the C230's 2.5-litre V6, all the other engines in this lineup have engines that are only 1.8-litre in capacity. That's the beauty of downsized engines, you pay less road tax but still gain performance. Talk about having your cake and eating it. 

As for common issues, WapCar.my once again sought the expertise of Ray Wong from Ray Car Care, who has seen his fair share of W204 C-Classes. 

Starting with the engines, Ray remarks that the V6-equipped C230 is a really rare sight. He shares that the CGI engines generally have less issues, where his customer's cars have done 200 - 300k km in mileage with little problems. With the supercharged Kompressor unit, the supercharger itself can fail over time. Symptoms include excessive vibrations and noise.

To change a brand new supercharger would cost north of RM 10,000. Ray recommends looking for a used/half cut unit to reduce the costs. However, the prices of half cut superchargers vary from one place to another, despite being cheaper than a new unit. 

Another common issue with the Kompressor engine is timing chain sprocket. When it starts to fail, the engine will exhibit misfires. Budget around RM 4,000 to RM 5,000 for a complete replacement set.

Ray also mentions that the oil cooler is prone to leaking. Once that happens, water will mix with your engine's coolant, potentially causing corrosion in the radiator and overheating issues. This happens on both the Kompressor and CGI engines. To fix this, budget RM 2,000 to replace the oil cooler. 

W204s also suffer from Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure. Not only will you not be able to shift gears, you won't be able to start the car. This is an extensive job as the transmission needs to be disassembled to replace the TCM, which can cost around RM 10,000.

One last thing Ray says to pay attention to is the Electronic Ignition System (EIS). Again, when this component fails, you are unable to start the car. Ray has fixed this problem in the past from RM 1,600.

Conclusion

The W204 Mercedes-Benz C-Class captured the essence of the marque in a compact, stylish package. Sure, it wasn't a flawless package by any means, but it was one that was self-confident and comfortable in its own skin, instead of pretending to be something its not. 

Yes, the W204 C-Class has been around for more than a decade, and in that time, it has aged in certain ways (lack of smartphone connectivity, lack of a swanky digital dash). However, it does carry off this regal, stately air of charm in the way it goes about its business.

Don't believe us? Guess you'll just have to buy one to experience it.