2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs E-Class
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for producing top-quality vehicles that deliver exceptional performance and luxury. If you’re planning to make your next car a Mercedes, you probably have the C-Class and E-Class on your shortlist. These two sedans are among the most popular models in the Mercedes lineup thanks to their great value for money. However, since they’re both remarkably well-made vehicles, you may have a hard time choosing between them. We’ll compare the performance, interior features, technology, and value of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class and E-Class to determine which one is a better fit for you.
Performance
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class gets its power from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. There’s also a 48-volt hybrid system that can provide an additional 20 horsepower for a short time. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), this power plant can propel the car from zero to 60 mph in 6 seconds. Besides punchy performance, the C-Class also delivers impressive fuel-economy ratings of 26 mpg city/36 mpg highway with RWD and 23 mpg city/33 mpg highway with AWD.
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class shares the same base engine with its smaller sibling. However, the higher-end E 450 trim comes with a 3.0-liter turbocharged I-6 engine that serves up to 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. AWD and a nine-speed automatic transmission are standard across the board. When equipped with the turbo I-4, the E-Class can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds and provide 24 mpg city/33 mpg highway. The turbo I-6 cuts the sprint time to a blistering 4.4 seconds but earns only 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway.
Both the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and E-Class are a pleasure to drive thanks to their responsive steering and excellent body control. As a smaller vehicle, the C-Class is easier to maneuver in confined situations, such as crowded traffic and parking lots. On the other hand, the E-Class provides a smoother and more composed ride, especially when traveling over uneven surfaces. Both sedans do a great job of remaining stable around turns and delivering confident stopping power.
Interior Features
Mercedes-Benz vehicles are known for their impeccable interior quality, exceptional comfort, and sophisticated vibe, and the C-Class and E-Class are no exception. The cabins of the two sedans boast sleek and modern styling, exquisite craftsmanship, and an abundance of soft-touch materials. Aesthetically pleasing aluminum accents and open-pore wood trim contribute to an upscale look and feel, with a button-free center console and ambient LED lighting accents adding a futuristic touch.
The C-Class and E-Class come standard with synthetic leather upholstery, 10-way power front seats with power lumbar support, heated front seats, a driver’s seat with memory settings, dual-zone automatic climate control, proximity keyless entry, and a power trunk lid. For those hot days, ventilated front seats are available as an option.
Despite its smaller dimensions, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers almost the same legroom and headroom as the larger E-Class. Both models comfortably accommodate up to five passengers with well-cushioned seats that are ergonomically designed to provide maximum support and relaxation on long journeys. These two Mercedes sedans also have similarly sized trunks.
Technology and Infotainment
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class and E-Class are fitted with an intuitive Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system that features a straightforward and responsive interface. The C-Class comes standard with an 11.9-inch touch-screen display, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, wireless device charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, a five-speaker sound system, voice recognition, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, satellite radio, and HD Radio. The base E-Class also has all these features, but it gets a larger 14.4-inch touch screen and augmented reality navigation. Furthermore, it offers an optional MBUX Superscreen that spans the entire dashboard.
As for driver-assistance features, every C-Class comes with forward collision alert, forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot detection, automatic high beams, driver-attention monitoring, and parking sensors. Some of these features are also standard on the E-Class, along with more advanced systems, such as a 360-degree camera and automatic parking assistance. Available features for both sedans include adaptive cruise control, evasive-steering assistance, and a head-up display.
Price and Value
The base MSRP of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is $46,950 for the C 300 Sedan. Opting for the C 300 4MATIC® sedan costs you an additional $2,000. Additionally, there are two trim packages offering a variety of upgrades: the Exclusive Trim for $2,050 and the Pinnacle Trim for $4,100.
If you decide to get the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, you’ll pay at least $62,300 for the base E 350 4MATIC® Sedan. The E 450 4MATIC® Sedan starts at $68,100. If you want more features, you can add the Pinnacle Trim for $3,400, the MBUX Superscreen Package for $1,500, the Winter Package for $450, or the Sun Protection Package for $800.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class punches above its price point with its opulent cabin and generous list of standard features, while the E-Class offers exhilarating performance at a reasonable price. If you want to get the best deal on a new Mercedes vehicle, take advantage of our awesome new vehicle specials.
Making the Right Choice
If you’re seeking a budget-friendly luxury sedan for daily commuting, getting the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a good idea. This compact car is easy to drive in the city and delivers outstanding fuel efficiency. Want a more engaging driving experience? Then, go for an E-Class model with the powerful turbo I-6 engine. The midsize sedan also offers more tech and safety features.
Discover Your Perfect Mercedes-Benz
If you’re thinking of buying the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class or E-Class in Birmingham, Alabama, we invite you to drop by Mercedes-Benz of Birmingham. Test-driving the two sedans firsthand allows you to truly appreciate their differences, helping you make an informed decision. Browse our new Mercedes inventory now to find your dream ride, and contact us to schedule a test drive.