C-Class W203 vs Impreza II (GD/GG): which is better?
Mercedes-Benz C-Class W203 (2000–2007) vs Subaru Impreza II (GD/GG) (2000–2007): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Subaru Impreza II (GD/GG)Specifications
| Mercedes-Benz C-Class W203 | Subaru Impreza II (GD/GG) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2000–2007 | 2000–2007 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.8 Kompressor (C180) | 2.0 |
| Power, up to | 143 hp | 125 hp |
| Torque, up to | 220 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | manual |
| Drive | rear-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 526 mm | 4 415 mm |
| Width | 1 728 mm | 1 695 mm |
| Height | 1 426 mm | 1 440 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 715 mm | 2 525 mm |
| Fuel tank | 62 L | 60 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 15 075 ₸ | ≈ 16 475 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Mercedes-Benz C-Class W203
Pros
- Gearbox Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic): very reliable
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine Mercedes M271 (1.8): timing chain stretch
- Gearbox Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic): leaking connector adapter and wiring
Engine (Mercedes M271 (1.8)): timing chain stretch; oil leaks from the heat exchanger and oil separator.
Gearbox (Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic)): very reliable; leaks from the connector adapter and wiring.
Subaru Impreza II (GD/GG)
Pros
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Subaru EJ (2.0–2.5) engine: head gasket leaks
Engine (Subaru EJ (2.0–2.5)): head gasket leaks; oil consumption; head gasket on the EJ253.
Which one to choose
- C-Class W203 — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank, kz tax 2026.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: C-Class W203 or Impreza II (GD/GG)?
C-Class W203: up to 143 hp, Impreza II (GD/GG): up to 125 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: C-Class W203 — about 15 075 ₸, Impreza II (GD/GG) — about 16 475 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.