A Firm Favorite The feature-packed C200 Kompressor Classic is a popular choice, writes Mark Redvers. Its good looks, impressive performance and driving ease have earned the Mercedes-Benz C200 Kompressor Classic many fans all over the world, and particularly in Hong Kong. The four-cylinder, 1,796cc vehicle can hit 100 kilometers in 9.3 seconds, yet it can also do 8.5 liters per 100 kilometers. Whether the driver is hitting the accelerator pedal on the highway, or cruising slowly with the family, a comfortable ride is assured, with plenty of on-board attractions to pass the time. Driver's delight In fact there is an awesome list of attractions that would be extras on many vehicles, but come as standard with the C200 Kompressor Classic, including an Audio 20 CD radio with CD player, an electric sunroof, front sports seat, and thermatic climate control. Drivers will delight in the five-speed automatic transmission, cruise control with Speedtronic variable speed limiter, parktronic system and windscreen wiper with rain sensor. Naturally, being a Mercedes-Benz, the vehicle is both comfortably luxurious and ultra-safe. Inside there is Artico upholstery and olive-wood trim, and you are secure in the knowledge that the cabin is also equipped with driver and front-passenger air bags and side-bags, along with left-and-right rear sidebags and window bags. Safety features that the driver will revel in include bi-xenon headlights with wash and wipe function, brake assist system, electronic stability programme and perforated front brake disc. Comfort is assured for the driver - one of the many ingenious features is an electrically adjustable driver's seat that has a memory package built in. To make it easy to see what is going on around you at night, there is an automatic dimming rear-view mirror, and a range of actions can be performed without the driver's hands leaving the steering wheel. Whatever the weather outside, the temperature inside C-class models can be adjusted to the liking of the occupants. In fact the thermatic climate control system does a lot more than keeping driver and passengers cool in summer and warm in winter; it also has a dust and pollen control filter, and a recirculation switch to allow clean, fresh air on board. The driving experience is a real joy, combining outstanding dynamic handling with top-class comfort. A smooth ride is assured thanks to Direct Control, a special suspension tuning that leads to significantly enhanced agility. In addition, the new Direct Control steering and transmission ensure a sporty ride, without the rear-seat passengers feeling as if they are on a Grand Prix track! Actually, the chances are that people in the back will be relaxing in the ergonomic-form seats, designed to ensure maximum comfort. Good looks The C200 Kompressor Classic also looks good, its sleek and sporty lines guarantee to turn heads sharply. The 17-inch light alloy wheels and oval stainless steel tailpipe are also real eye-catchers. The new radiator grille with its three louvres makes the vehicle instantly identifiable; at the front, the high-gloss, clear lens headlights are also a standout feature. Don't be too surprised to find a crowd gathering to admire the C200 Kompressor Classic. All in all, a feature-packed automobile that is immensely comfortable to drive and ride in, yet capable of achieving some pretty nifty performance figures. And, as with all Mercedes-Benz vehicles supplied by Zung Fu, the owner has the added comfort of having a sterling back-up service from the highly trained expert technicians, who are constantly upgrading their skills. Zung Fu service centres, located in different parts of Hong Kong, are equipped with the very latest electronic and computer systems to ensure tip-top treatment for C200 Kompressor Classic and other Mercedes-Benz vehicles. click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge click to enlarge