A wide range of petrol and diesel engines kicked off by the C160. Its performance doesn’t match the sporty looks and appeals only to buyers on a tight budget. The C180K is the first engine worthy of the car and, with its supercharged performance, can be quite fun. C200K and C230K petrol engines are there for drivers looking for more urge. K stands for Kompressor, which is the German for supercharger.

As you can imagine all three of the ‘K’ engines pull sweetly. Unlike the saloon and estate there’s no ultra-quick C55 in the Sport Coupe line-up. Diesels are the C200 CDI and C220 CDI. Both offer a refined drive, loads of power and useful fuel economy. All cars get a six-speed manual gearbox, with the exception of the C350, which gets a seven-speed auto unit.

A five-speed auto is optional others.

It’s not quite a sports car on the road, but is still good to drive, whether on country roads or the motorway. Around town it can feel a bit cumbersome with heavy steering and a firm ride, but it never strays from being comfortable. When it is pushed, body control is tight and the Sports Coupe corners well.