1997 Mercedes-Benz C-class (W202, facelift 1997) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 1997 facelift Mercedes-Benz C-class (W202) ranges between 1350 kg to 1570 kg (approximately 2976 to 3462 lbs), depending on the specific model and equipment. Its maximum gross vehicle weight varies from 1830 kg to 1970 kg (4037 to 4346 lbs), allowing for sufficient payload including passengers and cargo while maintaining safe driving dynamics and performance.

The luggage compartment of the 1997 facelift Mercedes-Benz C-class (W202) offers a capacity of 430 liters (approximately 15.2 cubic feet). This is quite competitive for a midsize sedan of its era, providing ample storage space for everyday needs, weekend trips, or shopping, and typically meeting or exceeding the luggage room found in similarly sized vehicles from the late 1990s.

The 1997 facelift model of the Mercedes-Benz C-class (W202) supports a range of tire sizes including 195/65 R15, 205/60 R15, 245/40 R17, and 225/45 R17. Correspondingly, rim sizes include 6.5J x 15, 7J x 15, 8.5J x 17, and 7.5J x 17. These options afford owners flexibility in wheel styling and performance tuning, accommodating both comfort-oriented and sportier driving preferences.

The roof load capacity for the facelifted 1997 W202 Mercedes-Benz C-class is rated at 100 kg (approximately 220 lbs). This rating defines the maximum weight that can be safely carried on the roof of the sedan, allowing for roof racks or cargo boxes to be utilized for additional storage when needed. It is important not to exceed this limit to maintain vehicle stability and safety during driving.

Yes, the 1997 facelift Mercedes-Benz C-class (W202) fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Given its dimensions—4516 mm (177.6 inches) in length, 1723 mm (67.8 inches) in width, and a height range of 1387 to 1427 mm (54.6 to 56.1 inches)—it is well within typical garage space allowances. Most standard garages, which generally measure around 2.4 meters (8 feet) wide and 5 to 6 meters (16 to 20 feet) long, provide ample room for this sedan with space remaining for doors to open and some storage.

The 1997 facelift Mercedes-Benz C-class (W202) retained very similar overall dimensions to the pre-facelift W202 models introduced in 1993, with only minor styling and trim updates affecting visual appearance rather than size. Length remained at approximately 4516 mm (177.6 inches), width at 1723 mm (67.8 inches), and height between 1387 mm and 1427 mm (54.6 to 56.1 inches). The mechanical updates and interior refinements improved occupant comfort and vehicle safety without significantly altering the footprint, thus maintaining familiar dimensions for owners and buyers.

The 1997 facelift W202 C-class is typical in size for a premium midsize sedan of the late 1990s. Compared to competitors like the BMW 3 Series (E36) and Audi A4 (B5), which measured roughly between 4400-4550 mm in length and around 1720-1750 mm wide, the C-class matched or slightly exceeded their dimensions. Its 430-liter (15.2 cubic feet) luggage capacity was competitive, while its relatively low height (1387 to 1427 mm, or 54.6 to 56.1 inches) contributed to a sleek silhouette. Overall, it offered a balanced size ideal for dynamic driving and city usability while providing competitive interior and cargo space.

The curb weight of the 1997 facelift Mercedes-Benz C-class (W202) ranges between 1350 kg and 1570 kg (about 2976 to 3462 lbs), depending on engine options, trim levels, and equipment. The relatively moderate weight contributes to the car's well-regarded handling dynamics and fuel efficiency for its class. A lighter curb weight in the lower range typically results in more responsive acceleration and braking, while the higher end reflects added features and larger engine options that enhance comfort and performance balance.

The 1997 facelift Mercedes-Benz C-class (W202) supports various rim sizes including 6.5J x 15, 7J x 15, 8.5J x 17, and 7.5J x 17, paired with tire options such as 195/65 R15, 205/60 R15, 245/40 R17, and 225/45 R17. Smaller rims with higher profile tires generally provide a smoother, more comfortable ride by absorbing road imperfections, while larger rims with lower profile tires enhance handling precision and cornering stability by reducing sidewall flex. Owners can therefore tailor wheel and tire choices based on personal preferences between comfort and sportier driving dynamics.