BMW 320d vs new Benz C200

**ryan** · October 25th, 2007 05:57 PM

I'm curious, what would you choose and why since both are priced almost the same? Has anyone driven any or both? I haven't test both but so far, pros and cons I've observed are:

BMW 320d
+ slightly more powerful engine
+ moonroof
+ better fuel consumption (more for resale since I only do less than 10k kms a year)
- possible problems due to poor diesel quality here?
- slightly dated looks and much more common

Benz C200
+ nicer interior
+ built in bluetooth handsfree phone
+ sporty and newer exterior
+ more spacious
- possible quality issues as its a first year model?

Just like some feedbacks. Thanks!

**bruno787** · October 25th, 2007 10:25 PM

i'd go with the new c class.

-its a new model
-moonroof has no use in our super polluted and hot country
-3series doesnt even have idrive as standard, mb does...
-diesel is designed for high mileage use
-"issues" are always existent in German Cars so it doesnt matter, its what warranties are for.

**Horsepower** · October 25th, 2007 11:00 PM

I'd go for the 320d.

+Diesel power. Get ready for some neck-breaking launches.
+You can drive it fast all day long and not worry about excessive fuel cost.
+BMW if you're the one driving.

C200
-UGLY looks like a puffer fish.
-model might still be hunted by daimler-chrysler quality-issue bugs.

**Camgen6** · October 25th, 2007 11:35 PM

I haven't driven neither of them. So I can only base my choices on looks.

I don't know why I like the styling of the new C class.

**ronw123w124** · October 26th, 2007 04:11 AM

320d, the new C-class looks like an ordinary car, it doesnt have the character of past Benzes.

**ghosthunter** · October 26th, 2007 09:34 AM

Originally Posted by ryan

I'm curious, what would you choose and why since both are priced almost the same? Has anyone driven any or both? I haven't test both but so far, pros and cons I've observed are:

BMW 320d
+ slightly more powerful engine
+ moonroof
+ better fuel consumption (more for resale since I only do less than 10k kms a year)
- possible problems due to poor diesel quality here?
- slightly dated looks and much more common

Benz C200
+ nicer interior
+ built in bluetooth handsfree phone
+ sporty and newer exterior
+ more spacious
- possible quality issues as its a first year model?

Just like some feedbacks. Thanks!

The BMW 320d feels heavier and less nimble than the C200, especially through the steering wheel. The 320d's heavy steering can be tiring if driven for longer distances. The C200 steering wheel does feel overboosted (as with all Benz models) but still gives a hint of feedback to the driver. The C200 actually does better in a left-right slalom run between road cones, changing directions is almost effortless. I also prefer the interior of the C200 and had a much quieter and smoother ride as well.

Overall, the C200 is my choice over the 320d

**drey** · October 26th, 2007 10:02 AM

The C200 would be better. It looks so nice, more elegant than the BMW imo.

I believe the C200 has more gadgets right?

**mbeige** · October 26th, 2007 10:24 AM

I never liked the new 3 series and I'm beginning to like the new C now. Looks like a smaller S but bigger than the previous model it replaced. From what I heard the C200 is somewhat noisy kasi 2.0 lang yung makina so it's a heavy car kaya it will push the engine quite a bit. Get something with a larger engine if I were you.

**ale828** · October 26th, 2007 11:54 AM

No contest for me. BMW 320d
better handling, fuel consumption and resale value.
diesel cars are better than their comparative gasoline counterparts.
Now if it was a C200 CDI then it might be a different fight.

**SiViTeC** · October 26th, 2007 04:31 PM

For me, based on the test drive that I did on both vehicle, I can say it's a toss up between driving dynamics and interior feel.

E90 -> 320d
+ made to be driven
+ good torque (good diesel engine)
+ simple yet elegant
+ bmw is more reliable in the long run (based on experience)
+ lesser electronic gadgets to break
- exterior styling depends on the person (I like the e46 body better)
- minimal interior features

W204 -> C200 (actually, I test driven the c280)
+ plush ride
+ lots of electronic features
+ brutally elegant
+ newer design
+ good sound system
- reliability (based on experience)
- driving dynamics not as good as the E90.
- exterior styling depends on the person (+ or -)

If you're not after for the driving dynamics in a car, go with the Mercedes. But, if you love to drive, go with the BMW.