They are unusual but out there. It is only available on the C300 Sport. My wife's C350 had the 7-speed auto, not sure why I would get a manual over that transmission. The 7-speed was very good.
The previous generation c-class (MY 2007 and earlier) could be had in 230 (4-cyl) and 320 (6-cyl) versions. The Coupe was fairly common with the manual. You can get the SLK in manual. SLK300 or 350. No AMG. Sadly, you can't get any of the higher horsepower cars with a manual. An CL65 or SL63 with three peddles would be pretty cool. Even the CLK63 Black has shifter paddles but it is a torque converter transmission, not dual clutch. My wife's C350 had the 7-speed auto and it was great for the type of driving she did that suited the car. Just normal use without hi-performance expectations. The AMG cars obviously have double the horsepower and you would expect buyers to really want to use them. I was very surprised the SLR didn't have a manual.
to be honest, I don't think any Mercedes (even the AMG's) are improved by a manual transmission. If you want a sport sedan w/ a manual, buy a BMW. big, comfy cruiser? buy a Benz with an auto.
That is the biggest issue with that car. If it was a dual clutch, or some kind of "automated" manual it would be such a better car.
Have you driven a CTS V? The interior is dreadful. I was a huge fan until I saw all the plastic and shiny fingerprint smudged panels in the car.
Wish I could say yes but I have inspected one up close and personal and with the performance and 6-speed I could overlook the plastic. BOT it is rather dreadful that MB does not offer a 6-speed in the C class.
