28 Sep 01
It's difficult to pigeonhole the Mercedes Sports Coupe. Viewed rationally, it's nothing more than a hatchback version of the C-Class saloon, but the nametag and its rakish profile suggest that it could also be viewed as a coupe rival to the Audi TT. Opt for the automatic 220CDI Evolution Panorama tested here and the mix becomes even more confusing.
Juggling with this conundrum is an important task for potential owners because they must seek to justify its exalted pricetag. At £25,980, the Mercedes looks distinctly pricey when compared with the new BMW 320tD auto at £21,975 and downright profligate next to the £16,395 Audi A3 TDI 130. Add desirable options such as leather trim, satellite navigation, headlamp washers and metallic paint and the price spirals towards £30,000.
