Mercedes-Benz C230 Kompressor Makes Detroit-Area Debut

3 November 1998
Mercedes-Benz C230 Kompressor Makes Detroit-Area Debut
    NOVI, Mich., Nov. 3 -- Over 50 Detroit-area automotive
journalists and industry analysts will drive the newest offering from
Mercedes-Benz, the C230 equipped with the powerful Kompressor (supercharged)
engine which comes from its award-winning brother the SLK roadster.
    The road test begins at Manor Motorcar Company, a new Mercedes-Benz
dealership in Novi, Mich. and will follow scenic roads northwest to Owosso,
which is located just west of Flint.  The four-hour test drive gives
journalists an opportunity to experience the car firsthand after hearing an
insider's product briefing from Mercedes head of C-Class product management,
Karen Makris.
    Mercedes-Benz continues to boost the performance and value of its
award-winning C-Class sport sedan, having just revamped the line from grill to
taillights in 1998.  For 1999 Mercedes has revved up its C230 entry model by
installing the supercharged engine making it the only supercharged model in
its segment.
    With 37 more horsepower (185 vs. 148) and 38 more lbs. of torque
(200 vs. 162) than its predecessor, the C230 Kompressor can accelerate from
0-60 in just 8.1 seconds -- a full two seconds quicker than the normally
aspirated 1998 C230!  Because Mercedes-Benz always balances performance with
safety, the new C230 Kompressor features full-range ASR traction control as
standard equipment.  Formally a $990 option, ASR aids driving on slippery road
surfaces by limiting wheel spin electronically with both the rear brakes and
throttle control.
    The C230 Kompressor joins the V-6 powered C290 and the limited-production,
ultra-performance V-8-powered C43 models in Mercedes-Benz dealerships.
    All 1999 C-Class models receive enhancements that further increase value
for the customer.  Leather seating inserts are now standard on the C230
Kompressor and C280.  Full leather, which covers the seats entirely and is
used on the door panels, is an option (standard for C43).  A new generation
radio unit features fiber-optic technology and integrates controls for the
sound system and optional CD changer and cellular telephone in a single unit.
    These substantial performance and safety and luxury enhancements to the
entry-level Mercedes-Benz sport sedan come with a minimal change in price: the
1999 C230 Kompressor has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $31,200.
A special optional Sport Package is available for $890.