BMW 3 Series vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class

How does the BMW 3 Series stack up against the Mercedes-Benz C-Class? We put their headline specs side by side so you can see exactly where each car leads.

BMW 3 SeriesBMW 3 Series
vs
Mercedes-Benz C-ClassMercedes-Benz C-Class
SpecBMW 3 SeriesMercedes-Benz C-Class
Horsepower (max)550 hp671 hp
0-100 km/h (fastest)3.4 s3.4 s
Top speed302 km/h280 km/h
Variants86
Body styleSedanCompact executive sedan
GenerationG20W206 / MB.EA
Production2019 – present2021 – present
Length4,713 mm4,842 mm
Width1,827 mm1,843 mm
Height1,435 mm1,453 mm
Wheelbase2,851 mm2,865 mm

BMW 3 Series vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class: common questions

Is the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz C-Class faster?
Both the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class hit 0-60 mph in about 3.2s (0-100 km/h in 3.4s).
Which has more horsepower, the BMW 3 Series or the Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class makes more power: 671 hp (500 kW) versus 550 hp (410 kW) for the BMW 3 Series.
Is the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz C-Class faster on top speed?
The BMW 3 Series has the higher top speed at 188 mph (302 km/h), versus 174 mph (280 km/h) for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
What is the main difference between the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
The BMW 3 Series is a sedan, while the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a compact executive sedan. That difference in body style drives most of the others.