2021 BMW 3 Series vs. 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Drivers who compare the BMW 3 Series vs. Mercedes-Benz C-Class are on the right track, but which small sedan is right for you? Our C-Class vs. 3 Series matchup proves that the C-Class offers a more impressive feature suite and much more power in its upper-level trims. Don’t just take our word for it. We’ve laid out everything you need to know before you take your favorite model for a test drive.

C-Class vs. 3 Series: Engine & Performance

The C-Class and the 3 Series have near-identical base engines.

Standard on the C 300 Sedan & the C 300 4MATIC® Sedan:

• 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder with 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque

Standard on the 330i Sedan & the 330i xDrive Sedan:

• 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder with 255 hp and 294 lb-ft of torque

So, either sedan will deliver an impressive performance on Westport and Norwalk roads, but what if you’re looking for something that isn’t just impressive, but truly thrilling? It’s easy to see where the advantage lies:

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers three available AMG® engine upgrades:

• AMG®-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo with 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque (AMG® C 43 Sedan)

• Handcrafted AMG® 4.0L V8 biturbo with 469 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque (AMG® C 63 Sedan)

• Handcrafted AMG® 4.0L V8 biturbo with 503 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque(AMG® C 63 S Sedans)

The 3 Series offers just two optional powertrain upgrades, and neither will impress drivers who know what the C-Class is offering:

• 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder & Electric Motor with 288 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque (330e, 330e xDrive)
• 3.0L BMW M TwinPower Turbo inline-6 with 382 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque (M340i, M340i xDrive)

Audi A4 vs. BMW 3 Series vs. Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Many drivers go on to compare the Audi A4 vs. BMW 3 Series vs. Mercedes-Benz C-Class, but if it’s power you’re after, you can end your search here. The A4 offers two powertrains, delivering 201 hp and 261 hp respectively. Neither has what it takes to unseat the reigning champion.

C-Class vs. 3-Series: Luxury and Standard Features

You’ll spend around $41,250 MSRP for the most accessible 3 Series. The Mercedes-Benz C 300 Sedan starts in the exact same range, at $41,600 MSRP*. Additionally, both models offer a wide range of luxurious standard features, including:

• Power front seats with memory
• Genuine wood trim
• 40/20/40 split fold-down rear seats
• Selectable drive modes
• And much more!

Similarities abound, but discerning drivers will notice several important differences between these two models. Here’s what you’ll want to know off the bat:

• The C-Class offers HANDS-FREE ACCESS® as a standard feature. The same technology, which lets you open the trunk by waving a foot beneath the bumper, requires an upgrade on the 3 Series.
• Exclusive Mercedes-Benz features like ATTENTION ASSIST® and Car-to-X-Communication allow you to travel more safely and more confidently. Both are standard in the C-Class. 
• The 3 Series and the C-Class both offer central touchscreen displays and customizable digital gauge clusters, but the interfaces in the C-Class are much larger and more user-friendly. They measure 12.3 inches diagonally, while the screens in the 3 Series measure just 8.8 inches diagonally as standard.

Experience the New C-Class for Yourself!

If you live in the Weston area, Mercedes-Benz of Fairfield has a new C-Class that you’re going to love. Start exploring our new vehicle specials and schedule a test drive you’ll never forget. We’re sure you’ll find even more to appreciate once you’ve spent time inside the cabin.