I picked up the last 2005 C230 6 speed Kompressor in my area. I test drove the 2006 2.5 v6 and it is considerably slower at this altitude (5700 ft.). It also weighs more. The new '05 tranny has shorter throws and quicker lighter action. They also changed the spring rates and damping compared my old C230. All and all I'm very pleased with the new car. Does anyone know why they stopped importing the Konpressor into the U.S.? It is lighter, faster. more fuel efficient and damn near as smooth. At some point I'd also like to see the 3.2 CDI engine with a 6 speed manual in the Sport version of the C Class.

PS - Thanks for the great info. I've been reading this forum for a while.

 

welcome & enjoy the ride!

 

Welcome[sm=gears.gif]

So, I'm guessing you're in the Rocky Mountains somewhere? It is interesting that you find the supercharger produces more torque, at high altitude, than a larger displacement. I've always wondered about that. Are supercharges popular in the mountains?

Who knows exactly why car manufactures change proven winners? It is frustrating and I'm fairly sure it boils down to projected profits.
Traditionally, of course, European car makers give the Americans bigger engines because most Americans want lots of HP and our fuel costs are significantly lower than a European's. But since our fuel prices have risen considerable of late, I'd think a fuel efficient 4 cycl. supercharged engine would be popular. I'll bet that 2.5 V6 is pretty good on gas though.

 

I'm in the Southern Rockies - New Mexico. A normal induction engine would loose between 15 and 20% of its hp and torque at this altittude because of the thinner air. Forced induction engines - turbo or supercharged - put out close to thier sea level numbers. The 4 cyl Kompressor gets about 10% better fuel economy than the v6 according to MB.