BMW M3 vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class

How does the BMW M3 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 M3BMW M3
vs
Mercedes-Benz C-ClassMercedes-Benz C-Class
SpecBMW M3Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Horsepower (max)550 hp671 hp
0-100 km/h (fastest)3.4 s3.4 s
Top speed302 km/h280 km/h
Variants36
Body stylePerformance sedanCompact executive sedan
GenerationG80W206 / MB.EA
Production2020 – present2021 – present
Length4,794 mm4,842 mm
Width1,903 mm1,843 mm
Height1,433 mm1,453 mm
Wheelbase2,857 mm2,865 mm

BMW M3 vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class: common questions

Is the BMW M3 or Mercedes-Benz C-Class faster?
Both the BMW M3 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 M3 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 M3.
Is the BMW M3 or Mercedes-Benz C-Class faster on top speed?
The BMW M3 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 M3 and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
The BMW M3 is a performance sedan, while the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a compact executive sedan. That difference in body style drives most of the others.