Two questions answer most of it: pre-facelift or Mopf, and which trim line. Match the cues below.
PRE-FACELIFT vs MOPF (mid-1997)
| Cue | Pre-facelift | Facelift (Mopf) |
|---|---|---|
| Built | June 1993 – mid 1997 | Mid 1997 – 2000 |
| Grille | Body-colour surround, simpler slats | Restyled grille, revised surround |
| Indicators | Amber front lenses | Clear / white front lenses |
| Six-cylinder | M104 inline-six (C280) | M112 V6 (C240, C280) |
| Safety | Front airbags, ASR | Side airbags standard, ESP available |
| Interior | Early switchgear and cluster | Updated switchgear, new wheel |
| Wheels | Early 15-inch alloy designs | Redesigned alloy patterns |
TRIM LINES
| Line | How to spot it |
|---|---|
| Classic | The base line. Body-colour bumpers, steel-look or basic alloys, cloth trim. The volume seller and the cheapest way in. |
| Esprit | The youthful line. Two-tone bumpers, colour-keyed details, brighter cabin trims (the Brighton red cloth is the signature). Aimed at younger buyers. |
| Elegance | The luxury line. Chrome accents, wood trim, more equipment and softer seats. The understated executive choice. |
| Sport | The sporting line. AMG-style body kit, lowered sports suspension, sports seats and wheels. The look most owners chase. |
| Avantgarde | The facelift-era design line. Sportier detailing, distinctive console trim and brighter cabin accents. Sits alongside Elegance from 1997. |
