Introduction
In the compact luxury sports segment, the main competitors are Mercedes-Benz C class and BMW 3-series. In general, both these models offer “fresh styling and modern, sophisticated interiors” . Both of them have been recently redesigned, and they both offer new four-cylinder engines. Their engines are turbocharged, even in the entry level model, to improve the fuel economy.
The Mercedes C Class uses a 1.8 litre turbocharged engine that has four cylinders and is direct-injected. It delivers 201 horsepower and a 229 pound-feet of torque. In comparison, the BMW 328i has more muscle, as it delivers 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque from its 2.0 litre turbocharged direct-injected engine. BMW’s 320i would be a better match to Mercedes’s C250, as it delivers 200 horsepower.
Even though BMW is more powerful, it is also more fuel efficient. In city driving conditions is consumes 24 mpg and 33 mpg in highway, as compared to C class’s 21/31 offering in respective category. At the same time, BMW’s engine is obviously sportier, and is “loud but raunchy and growly engine note” . In addition to its fuel efficiency, its lowest kerb weight makes it quicker of the two. BMW does 0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds, which is marginally higher than Mercedes’s 7.8 seconds.
In terms of handling, both Mercedes and BMW are in the same league. While the 320i does better on winding roads, the C200 does better in daily driving. With adaptive dampers, the 320i has the control as well as the handling. When used with sporting drivetrain, the 320i can easily handle the twisty roads, and is fastest with subtle stability control. Although the Mercedes C Class is next best in handling, its rear tires are wider. That offers it stability, and adds to overall balance of the chassis.
Interiors
Both the models are closely matched in terms of “handling, ride quality, comfort, and features” . Both of them have cabin interiors that have good built quality, with good quality materials used. Although there are some compromises with regards to plastics, both of them are better when compared to Audi A4. Both the models provide good amount of comfort and space in front seats. An extra inch of wheelbase in BMW provides much needed legroom for rear passenger. And a standard 40: 20: 40 split folding rear seats makes more flexible. It is here that it has marked advantage over Mercedes. However , Mercedes has “least intrusive centre tunnel here and the sculpture console bin permits more centre leg space than any rival”.
When comparing the ergonomics, the Mercedes C Class has an edge. Its trip computer and audio functions are displayed in speedometer, whose controls are mounted on steering wheel. In comparison, BMW requires fiddling with buttons that are at the end of the indicator stalk . The interior plastics of BMW 3 series are less impressive. The leather over seats and steering has a course feeling.
Technological Advancements
Both these models offer latest in terms of “telematics services, voice controls, and navigation/infotainment system”. Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND system gives an impression of not being as advanced as it is expected to be. In contrast, BMW’s iDrive, which at one point was considered as confusing, is quite refined. It also “adds BMW Apps functionality for smartphone integration with music and social media apps as well as the standard multimedia”.
The 3 series models come in three versions: luxury line, modern line and sports line . The long list of options include: head-up display; heated steering wheel; retractable headlight washers are part of cold weather package. Driver’s assistance package offers lane departure warning and blind spot detection. Parking Distance Control system is included in the Parking Package that also has a rear-view camera and side/top view camera. The navigation system offers real time information about traffic and 3D topographical view when traveling in mountainous terrain.
Mercedes-Benz comes in two classes : Luxury and Sports. The standard equipment includes: dual-zone automatic climate control; Bluetooth hands-free calling; Bluetooth audio streaming; cruise control; universal garage-door opener; and sunroof. Among available options are: heated front seats, Harmon/Kardon Logic7 sound system; iPod/MP3 interface; voice control; and COMAND hard-drive-based navigation/infotainment system.
Road Safety
When compared for road safety, both are at same level. Both of them have earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick award. They also got the top level five stars from the federal government. Though, they didn’t get five stars in every category. However, the BMW 3 series has some unique features such as wide-angle and bird-eye cameras for reversing.
The C Class Mercedes has the larger boot space of the two. It also has a full size spare wheel, which is also standard allow . Mercedes-Benz has an excellent steering system. It is quick, light and precise, and with it variable ratio, it gets quicker as one turns. In comparison, BMW charges extra for variable ration system. The one that is offered as standard is disappointing considering BMW is known for its handling.
All BMW series 3 sedans include : front and front side airbags; side head airbags. Among optional features you have: Active Blind Spot Detection and the Lane Departure Warning System including a camera-based Collision Warning system. It also includes an Automatic Collision Notification system that sends information to the emergency response team about the nature of the accident and trauma.
In case of Mercedes , it provides 13 way airbag protection via 11 airbags; active head restraint; adaptive brakes; stability and traction control; rain-sensing wipers; and even Attention Assist that monitors driver alertness.
Conclusion
Overall, the 2013 BMW 3-series is considered as safe and fuel-efficient. At the same time it offers top of the class performance and handling, which is typically expected of them. For those who are image and value conscious, buy Mercedes Benz C Series is popular choice.
Both these models are very closely matched. BMW is considered to be brilliant while driving along bends and in a straight line. At the same time, one needs to add a lot of optional features before it can match Mercedes in steering and ride.
On the other hand, Mercedes is “more consistent, more polished, rarely dipping below a high level of achievement in all areas”. In addition, it offers better value and interiors.
Bibliography
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