Production Years Covered:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Market Position:
The Mercedes-Benz W168 A-Class, particularly the A210 Evolution, was positioned as a premium compact hatchback offering unique interior flexibility and Mercedes-Benz build quality in a segment typically dominated by more conventional designs.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the BMW 1 Series (E87, later generation), Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, and Ford Focus, differentiating itself with its 'sandwich floor' design promoting a higher seating position and safety benefits.
Key Features:
Innovative 'sandwich' floor construction for enhanced safety and interior space, compact exterior dimensions with surprisingly spacious interior, pioneering the premium compact hatchback segment for Mercedes-Benz.
A210 Evolution Specifics:
The A210 Evolution variant typically featured a more powerful engine, sportier suspension tuning, enhanced exterior styling, and premium interior appointments.
Engine Coverage:
Detailed coverage for the M166 and M271 engine families, specifically focusing on the 2.1L variant (likely an M111 variant adapted for the W168, or a specialized M166 version for the A210 Evolution).
Transmission Coverage:
Includes manual and automatic transmission (AUTOTRONIC® - CVT) servicing, repair, and diagnostics.
Chassis Coverage:
Suspension, steering, braking systems (including ABS/ESP), and wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical Coverage:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic procedures for engine control, body control modules, comfort systems, lighting, and instrumentation.
Body And Interior Coverage:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, seat adjustments, interior trim, HVAC system servicing, and safety restraint systems (airbags, seatbelts).
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (specific number not provided, but typical for comprehensive factory manuals).
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)
Powertrain Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, and emissions control systems.
Drivetrain Systems:
Front-wheel drive components, driveshafts, differential, and associated seals/bearings.
Suspension And Steering:
MacPherson strut front suspension, torsion beam rear axle, power steering system (hydraulic), and steering column components.
Braking Systems:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program) components, and brake fluid specifications.
Electrical And Electronic Systems:
Engine Control Module (ECM/ME), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Body Control Module (BCM), CAN bus communication, lighting circuits, power windows, central locking, audio system, and climate control.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), and component testing procedures.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance tasks including oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, and belt inspections.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for engine component replacement (e.g., timing belt/chain, water pump, alternator), transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor service, and electrical component repair.
Special Tool Usage:
Identification and recommended usage of specialized tools required for specific repair operations.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and components.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive from basic adjustments and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated (likely based on M111 family or a high-output M166 variant for the A210).
Displacement:
Approximately 2.1 Liters (2084 cc or similar).
Bore X Stroke:
Specifics vary, but typical for this era's Mercedes engines.
Horsepower:
Likely in the range of 135-145 HP (exact for A210 Evolution may vary).
Torque:
Estimated 190-200 Nm (exact for A210 Evolution may vary).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic or similar).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual).
ECU Type:
ME 2.8, ME 2.9, or similar Mercedes-Benz engine control units.
Emission Controls:
Catalytic Converter, Secondary Air Injection (depending on market), EVAP system.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission.
Optional Transmission:
AUTOTRONIC® (Continuously Variable Transmission - CVT).
Transmission Features:
Front-wheel drive layout, specific gear ratios and final drive specifications provided in manual.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity and MB approval number in manual).
Transmission Fluid Type Cvt:
MB-specific CVT fluid (e.g., ATF 3353 or equivalent).
Length:
Approx. 3626-3634 mm (Standard W168).
Interior Design Philosophy:
Maximizing perceived and actual space through high roofline and upright seating positions due to sandwich floor.
Seat Configuration:
Flexible seating system ('Variospaced' system allowing rear seat removal/adjustment).
Cargo Capacity:
Variable, with significant volume achievable by folding or removing rear seats (specific liter figures in manual).
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1250-1350 kg (depending on engine and transmission).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specified in manual, varies by configuration.
Euro Ncap Rating:
Achieved a commendable 4-star rating in Euro NCAP crash tests for its era, largely due to the sandwich floor design's energy absorption capabilities.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP - optional or standard on higher trims/later models), Traction Control System (ASR).
Passive Safety Features:
Frontal airbags, side airbags, front and rear seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell due to sandwich floor.
Infotainment System:
Basic Audio 20 system with CD player, optional navigation, and climate control.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, ESP (optional/later models), cruise control.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; likely had provisions for early mobile phone integration or CD changers.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific intervals based on driving conditions and oil type used).
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000 km or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 km for standard spark plugs, longer for iridium or platinum plugs.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.1, 229.3, or 229.5 approved synthetic engine oil, typically SAE 0W-40, 5W-40, or 5W-30 depending on climate and specific engine requirements.
Coolant Specification:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant concentrate (e.g., G48 based on ethylene glycol) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Power Steering Fluid:
MB-approved hydraulic fluid (e.g., CHF 11S or similar).
Known Issues:
Early models sometimes experienced issues with the AUTOTRONIC® CVT transmission, certain electrical components, and occasional suspension wear. Rust can be a concern on older examples. Manuals detail specific troubleshooting for these.
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury. The W168 marked a significant step into the compact car segment for the brand.
Model Evolution:
The W168 was introduced in 1997. A facelift occurred in 2001, bringing updated styling, improved safety features, and updated powertrains. The A210 Evolution was a performance-oriented variant introduced during this period.
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured at Mercedes-Benz's Rastatt plant in Germany. Some assembly may have occurred in other locations depending on market.
