The design lines

  • Classic: the base trim level.
  • Esprit (1995–1997): a younger entry special with colour-keyed bumpers, metallic paint and electric front windows.
  • Elegance (1993–2000): chrome trim, burled walnut, 15-inch alloys and more luxurious fabrics.
  • Sport (1995–2000): suspension lowered 25 mm, 16 or 17-inch alloys, body-coloured side skirts and fog lights, often with AMG styling after the facelift.
  • Avantgarde (1997–2000): introduced with the facelift, black-wood interior, aluminium highlights, white gauge faces and exclusive wheels.

The C55 AMG: rarest of all

Built right at the end of the run, the C55 AMG is the rarest factory W202. Roughly 59 were made, about 45 saloons and 14 estates, of which only around 26 were right-hand drive, which makes it scarcer than even the 190E Evolution II. Genuine cars carry an AMG birth certificate and data card, the documents to demand before paying C55 money.

Limited runs

  • DTM Edition (1997–1998): German and Swiss market, based on the C230 Kompressor Sport, with 17-inch AMG Monoblock II wheels, silver dials and a numbered plaque. A few hundred built.
  • Designo: an individualisation programme offering custom leather colours, bespoke wood veneers and exclusive paint finishes.