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

Are you dreaming of getting behind the wheel of a new luxury sedan in Warwick? Not sure where to start? Comparing the BMW 3 Series vs. Mercedes-Benz C-Class will put you on the path of a more exciting drive. Both models are stylish and come well-equipped with a rich and elegant interior. Still, we think the 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is the clear winner. Read on to delve deeper into this year’s BMW 3 Series vs. Mercedes-Benz C-Class comparison, and then contact Mercedes-Benz of Warwick to explore your C-Class options in person. 

C-Class vs. 3 Series: Engine Performance

Providence divers comparing the BMW 3 Series vs. Mercedes-Benz C-Class for engine performance will see that these two sedans provide similar base-level engines–but that’s where the similarities end. Review the engine specs for both models below: 

2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan – Powertrains

• 2.0L I4 turbo with 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque (C 300 Sedan, C 300 4MATIC® Sedan)
• 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 Sedan)

The base-level C-Class has rear-wheel drive, and like the rest of the lineup, comes standard with a 9G-TRONIC® 9-speed automatic transmission. 4MATIC® AWD is standard on the next step up, and if you progress to the AMG® line, you’ll be rewarded with AMG® Performance 4MATIC® AWD instead. You won’t find any of these options on the BMW 3 Series. 

2021 BMW 3-Series Sedan – Powertrains

• 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder with 255 hp and 294 lb-ft of torque
• 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder & Electric Motor with 288 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque
• 3.0-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo inline-6 with 382 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque

When comparing the C-Class vs. 3 Series, note that all BMW 3 Series models come standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and that means the C-Class has the edge from the start! Additionally, all 3 Series models have xDrive AWD as an option rather than a standard feature. That means you have to pay for the extra upgrade no matter which BMW 3-Series trim you settle on. Why pay extra for something on a BMW 3 Series when it’s included in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class?

Are Other German Sedans Worth Considering?

If you’re comparing the Audi A4 vs. BMW 3 Series vs. Mercedes-Benz C-Class, you should know that the 2021 A4 starts at only 201 horsepower and maxes out at 261 horsepower. That’s another way of saying that the C-Class is the preferred choice for East Greenwich enthusiasts with a passion for German luxury sedans.

C-Class vs. 3-Series: Premium Features

Regardless of which sedan you choose for your Cranston commute, the C-Class vs. 3-Series matchup sets you up for success. That’s especially apparent when you look at the premium features on these models, such as:

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

Still, the BMW 3-Series is notably absent of some key high-tech features you’ll find in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. This is why we think you’ll prefer the Mercedes-Benz:

• HANDS-FREE ACCESS® is standard in the C-Class but requires a hefty upgrade in the BMW 3 Series. If you’ve ever struggled to open the trunk with your hands full of groceries or gear, you know this feature is valuable!
• ATTENTION ASSIST® learns your usual driving behaviors and lets you know you should take a break. 
• The 2021 C-Class sedan features a large 12.3-inch central touchscreen display and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. The BMW 3 Series comes standard with two screens that measure just 8.8 inches diagonally.

With the base-level C-Class starting at $41,600 MSRP* and the base-level 3 Series starting at $41,250 MSRP, why wouldn’t you want all these extra features for about the same price tag?

Test Drive a Mercedes-Benz C-Class at Mercedes-Benz of Warwick

Are you ready to take a test drive in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class? Explore your options online or at the dealership. Either way, Mercedes-Benz of Warwick makes it easy to find your next Mercedes-Benz. You might also want to review our new vehicle specials and complete a financing application. Contact us today and let us know how we can help you.