Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs BMW 3-Series
May 22 2021,
The rivalry between the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class is one of the longest running in the compact luxury sedan segment. These two icons vie for supremacy with their own approaches to styling and performance. For 2021, you have to look for the differences between the two, but when you do, you'll find that each has its strengths and weaknesses. Still, one manages to stay above the fray. Let's take a look at how.
More technology
The C-Class was last refreshed in 2015, but it has benefited from updates in 2019. The current 3 Series is a 2019 creation. Still, the C isn't behind the 3 technologically. Just take the screens found on board, a feature that defines the luxury of a model. In the case of the C-Class, we get a 10.3-inch screen for the multimedia system as standard, as well as digital gauges on a 12.3-inch screen.
At BMW, two 8.8-inch screens are standard. Larger units are available, but you'll have to pay more for a variant that offers them or pay for an option package that includes them. Other than that, two things stand out about the difference between the two multimedia systems; the Mercedes-Benz one is more user-friendly and has clearer graphics. Also, there are more options to configure the display in Mercedes-Benz. So, you can really customize the presentation to reflect what you like.
The performance variants
When we look at the top of the lineup, we find performance variants at both addresses. At BMW, it's called the M3, while at Mercedes, it's known as the C 63 S. Here, we have two completely different approaches. At BMW, we get a turbocharged 6-cylinder, while at Mercedes, we still get a good old V8 (also turbocharged). In practice, it's clear that the feeling is now on the Mercedes side when it comes to high performance.
And, incredibly, the V8 is more frugal than the 6-cylinder. So we win on two fronts.
Styling
Finally, although it's subjective, there's a certain unanimity across the industry that the C-Class' styling is better than the 3-Series'. In fact, Mercedes-Benz has never strayed from its image of class and elegance. BMW has tried to make the 3-Series more graceful over the years, but it hasn't gone smoothly. At the end of the day, the company is trying to find its way with a model that no longer has the same soul.
For these reasons, and for the body of work, our choice remains the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
