KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- C-Class appears like an baby S-Class.
- The 3 Series Long Wheelbase was earlier called the Gran Limousine.
- Certain variants of both cars have been delisted from the offical site.
Entry-level luxury sedans? No, dream cars of every generation. The BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class have always remained a hot topic of debate among enthusiasts, as both of them carry several aspects of being the perfect car. Not only do they fulfill the desire to own a fast, high-performance vehicle, but they also ensure that their families love to ride in them.
That said, in their purest form, both of these German vehicles are developed for very different kinds of people and drive extremely differently from each other. So, based on personal driving experience, we at 91Wheels are going to tell you which is best for your daily use. Before that, make sure to join the 91Wheels Whatsapp Channel to never miss out on automotive updates.
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BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase
In India, we don't get the regular wheelbase 3 Series like in earlier days, as the automaker has reserved it for the performance-spec M340i - a blisteringly quick and fun-to-drive vehicle, with M badge characteristics. The 3 Series Long Wheelbase is essentially the same vehicle, but with a stretched wheelbase that extends the legroom for second-row passengers. In India, you can only choose the 330Ld M Sport, which costs Rs 62 lakh ex-showroom, and the 330Ld M Sport Pro at Rs 65 lakh. Also, there is a petrol variant 330Li M Sport - that again uses a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Lastly, it costs Rs 62.60 lakh.
Mercedes Benz C Class
Currently in its sixth generation, model code name W206, the C-Class has always been well-accepted in India, and to this day, the aspirational value of the C-Class remains at an all-time high. In India, you can choose between three variants - C 300, C 43 4MATIC, and C 63 S E Performance. The other two are strictly performance-based, so we will only consider the C 300, which costs Rs 66.25 lakh ex-showroom, and only comes with a mild-hybrid petrol engine. To add more, there isn't any extended wheelbase version of it; for that, you'll have to choose the E-Class.
| Dimensions | BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase | Mercedes Benz C Class |
| Length | 4819 mm | 4751 mm |
| Width | 1827 mm | 1820 mm |
| Height | 1441 mm | 1437 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2961 mm | 2865 mm |
Engine On Offer
The BMW 2.0L four-cylinder diesel engine makes 190 ps and is able to go from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds, with a fuel efficiency of 19.6 km per liter. To add more, the petrol engine of 2.0L belts out 258 ps and 400 Nm of torque, and is able to go from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed DCT gearbox and feel lightning quick in sports mode.
Now, with Mercedes-Benz, currently only the 1.5L 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine is available, which also gets assistance from a 48-volt electrical system. This powertrain makes 204 ps and 300 Nm of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic gearbox. The acceleration is done in 7.3 seconds, and the top speed of this vehicle is 246 km/h.
Premium Feel
Well, both these saloons are packed with essential features like large infotainment screens, digital MID, powered seats, and a sunroof, but the C-Class offers a panoramic sunroof as well as a premium sound system. But the big question is, which car feels more luxurious inside? Well, the answer is the BMW 3 Series. Mercedes doesn't feel the way it used to back in the days because the overall fit and finish of the interiors feels weak, and one can hear crackling noise inside, where the plastic used isn't sturdy enough. Especially from the front area, where the 11.9-inch infotainment screen is placed, one can hold it from both hands and shake up the entire interior layout. That's the type of quality used by Merc here.
Now, inside, the BMW 3 Series, things are very intersting. For starters, the BMW Curved display, consisting of both infotainment and drivers display feels like an art piece. Then there is invisible ac vents, which makes your curious, and the overall cabin experience feels more premium, and that's because the quality of materials is top-notch, and everything feels built to last. Moreover, everywhere you touch, you'll feel the usage of soft touch materials, which makes every ride in this car, special.
Last thing, the rear seat experience of the 3 Series is outstanding, and it ought to be, but even the Mercedes will make you feel special, as the seats are fantastic and there is a good amount of space for your legs, feet, and head. But if you are of a massive build, opt for the 3 Series Long Wheelbase.
Features
BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase
Adaptive LED headlights, all four disc brakes, L-shaped LED tail-lights and M sport package, makes it look richer and sportier both at the same time. In interior you'll get BMW curved display with 12.3 Inch of MID and 14.9 Inch of infotainment system, powered by the latest BMW 8.5 operating system, that makes it so easy to use it. For ultimate musical experience there are 16 speakers from Harman Kardon, and the ambient lights takes the interior experience to next level.
Talking about the C-Class, its interior is also a beautiful scenic piece that feels very minimalistic, all because the main work is done through the 11.9-inch infotainment screen, which can also be locked/unlocked via a fingerprint scanner. Now, here, Benz offers ambient lighting, memory seats, ADAS, a panoramic sunroof, and the Burmester 3D sound system.
Driving Dynamics
If you're passionate about driving, then the 3 Series is one of the best cars available on sale in India to drive, not just in its segment. It's quick even when you press the throttle lightly, and feels stable even at 200 km/h. The most unique thing about the 3 Series is that it feels like a boat. Yes, what I mean here is that despite being an entry-level sedan, upon driving one, you'll feel the length of it, and at all times, you'll experience its grandness. This is not the case with the C-Class or Audi A4.
Also, the steering wheel has weight; despite being an electric steering wheel, the car feels heavy, and that's always been the case with the 3 Series, as at its core, this is a fun-to-drive street sports car, then it's a practical sedan. At last, the comfort is also fantastic, and one can cover 500 km in this vehicle easily. So, if you're planning a car for chauffeur-driven use or to just drive by yourself, this vehicle is made for you.
Let's talk about the C-Class for a bit. The C-Class instantly feels like a car. It's easy to get along with, feels light, fast, and utterly comfortable. The perks of the 3 Series are its athleticism, while the C-Class is comfortable at all stages. Be it you're driving on a rough patch or on a smooth road, this will make you just want to cruise all the way and never step out. However, if you're an enthusiast, then you need to lower your expectations from this one, as it can provide you fun, up to a certain point; after that, you'll need to slow down. Now, this doesn't mean it's slow, but the suspension setup isn't tweaked for that purpose. So, at last, go with this, if want an great comfortable ride all time.
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Verdict
For people looking for the perfect concoction of a fun-to-drive sedan with loads of space and high-tech features, the 3 Series Long Wheelbase is a perfect choice. It's comfortable at all stages and ready to be pushed hard with just one tap. For people who are alright with mild performance but prioritize comfort, the C-Class would be a perfect choice. I hope this detailed comparison has made several things clear and helped you understand which ride is catered to which person.
