BMW 3 Series vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class Spec Comparison: What's Different?

The compact luxury sedan segment features a competitive rivalry between the BMW 3 Series LWB and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, both offering unique strengths.

BMW 3 Series vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class Spec Comparison: What's Different?

For decades, the compact luxury sedan market has been defined by a single, unyielding question: Do you want to drive, or do you want to be driven? It’s the eternal tug-of-war between the BMW 3 Series LWB (long-wheel base) and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Key Highlights
  • The BMW 3 Series LWB starts at Rs 60.60 lakh, while the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is slightly more affordable with a starting price of Rs 59.90 lakh (ex-showroom).
  • The BMW 3 Series LWB focuses on sporty performance with powerful 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines.
  • The C-Class offers a wider engine lineup with 48V mild-hybrid technology and a more refined driving experience.
  • The BMW 3 Series LWB stands out with its spacious rear seat comfort and driver-focused cabin.
Both models have built a strong reputation among buyers looking for a mix of sporty driving dynamics, advanced technology and high-end comfort. While the BMW 3 Series is known for its driver-focused character and engaging performance, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class focuses on luxury, refinement, and a premium cabin experience.
In this detailed comparison, we take a closer look at the BMW 3 Series LWB and Mercedes-Benz C-Class to find out how these two German sedans stack up against each other in terms of design, features, performance, comfort and overall value.

BMW 3 Series LWB vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Price

In India, the BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase (LWB) is priced from Rs 60.60 lakh (ex-showroom).
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has a slightly lower starting price of Rs 59.90 lakh (ex-showroom).

BMW 3 Series LWB vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Dimensions

The BMW 3 Series LWB measures 4,823mm in length, 1,827mm in width (excluding mirrors), 1,441mm in height and has a wheelbase spanning 2,961mm.
On the other hand, The Mercedes-Benz C-Class measures 4,751mm in length, 1,820mm in width (excluding mirrors), 1,437mm in height and has a wheelbase spanning 2,865mm.

BMW 3 Series LWB vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Powertrain

The BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase (LWB) is available with two engine options in India - a petrol and a diesel unit. The BMW 330Li petrol variant is powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that produces 258 hp and 400 Nm of torque. While the diesel-powered BMW 320Ld comes with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that generates 190 hp and 400 Nm of torque.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class in India is offered with three engine options, all paired with a standard 48V mild-hybrid system (EQ-Boost) and a 9G-Tronic 9-speed automatic transmission. The mild-hybrid technology assists the engine during acceleration by providing an additional boost of up to 20hp and 200 Nm of torque, enhancing performance while improving efficiency.
The C-Class is available with both petrol and diesel engine options. The entry-level C 200 is powered by a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 201 bhp, while the C 220d gets a 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine that delivers 197 bhp and 440 Nm of torque. At the top of the lineup, the C 300d comes with a more powerful 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine generating 265 bhp and 440 Nm of torque.

BMW 3 Series LWB vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Features

The BMW 3 Series LWB offers a premium cabin with spacious rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, BMW Curved Display with 12.3-inch digital cluster and 14.9-inch touchscreen, iDrive 8.5, Harman Kardon audio and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class gets a tech-rich interior with the third-generation MBUX system, 12.3-inch digital displays, fingerprint scanner, wireless charging, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and ADAS features.

BMW 3 Series LWB vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Safety

The BMW 3 Series LWB comes equipped with up to 8 airbags, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), and an electric parking brake with auto-hold function.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class gets 7 airbags along with advanced safety features such as active lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, autonomous emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera.

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