Manual or automatic Mercedes C-Class?

I am thinking of purchasing a Mercedes-Benz C 180 with the 1.8 petrol engine around 2006-2007. Do I go manual or automatic? What is fuel consumtion like? Are there any problems I should be aware of?

Christopher Perrin (Dublin / Ireland)

Jul 2012 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Christopher,

First things first: go for automatic. The fuel economy won't be as good, but there are far more on the market and the manual version retains the foot-operated parking brake, which is madness. It should return about 35mpg.

In general it's a reliable car, though check all electrics and if the gearbox is jerky walk away. Also listen out for suspension knocks. Insist on a full service history or find a car that has it.

Hope that all helps.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Adviser
@Shane_O_D