What Are the Differences Between the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and E-Class?

As two of the most popular Mercedes-Benz lineups, the C-Class and E-Class have been leading the way in luxury vehicles for decades. Introduced within two years of each other, 1993 and 1995, they offer Roseburg drivers many options for daily driving or getting a dose of adrenaline. But what exactly are the differences between these iconic vehicle series? When car shoppers head to a Mercedes-Benz dealer near Roseburg, like our dealership here at Mercedes-Benz of Medford, they'll want to know which vehicle is best suited to their driving preferences, everyday needs, and budget. We're here to help with this guide comparing the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and E-Class so you can make an informed decision as to which model best fits your needs.

Vehicle Sizes

The naming of these series also gives you the most obvious way to tell them apart. The C in C-Class stands for "Compact Executive," while the E in E-Class stands for simply "Executive." In other words, Mercedes-Benz is telling you upfront that the C-Class is the smaller car, with the E-Class officially slotted as a midsize vehicle. To see this in action, let's compare the exterior dimensions of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C 300 4MATIC Sedan to the E 350 4MATIC Sedan.

• Mercedes-Benz C 300 4MATIC Sedan: 56.6-inch height, 187-inch overall length, 80-inch overall width, 112.8-inch wheelbase, 3,957-pound curb weight
• Mercedes-Benz E 350 4MATIC Sedan: 57.9-inch height, 194.9-inch overall length, 81.3-inch width, 116.6-inch wheelbase, 4,189-pound curb weight

This size difference translates to the interior measurements as well. The newest generation of the E-Class now offers a little more headroom and legroom than the C-Class (the last generation was almost identical), and the E-Class sedan now sports 19 cu.ft. of cargo space compared to 12.6 cu.ft. If you and your crew want to stretch out while waiting in downtown Roseburg traffic or pack extra luggage for a weekend getaway, the E-Class is your car.

Surprisingly Similar Engine Options

Despite being compact and midsize vehicles, respectively, the base model of each lineup-the C 300 Sedan and the E 350 4MATIC Sedan use the same powerplant. This mild hybrid 2.0L inline-four turbocharged engine produces 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque in standard form, and you can get bursts of 275 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. Thanks to the smaller size of the C 300, this means slightly better acceleration and fuel economy in the C-Class, especially when you get the rear-wheel drive (RWD) version.

However, while the E-Class has the next-level-up E 450 4MATIC with an inline-six 375-horsepower, 369 pound-feet engine, the C-Class doesn't offer a 400-series option. So if you want a substantial power boost within the same everyday vehicle shell, the E-Class is the only way to get it. The most recent overhauls of each series have added another notable variation. While the C-Class still has RWD as standard or available on each vehicle, starting in 2024, the E-Class is now exclusively 4MATIC all-wheel drive (AWD). This is great if your goal is stability and traction on a variety of surfaces. However, still having the RWD option gives the C-Class cars a little more efficiency and a sportier old-school feel.

The Performance-Focused AMG Class: One Stays, the Other Says Goodbye

AMG has been associated with high-performance Mercedes vehicles since 1967. In recent years, both C-Class and E-Class buyers had the option to get AMG-tuned variations on their luxury vehicles. The C-Class had the AMG C43 and C 63 S while the E-Class offered the AMG E53 and E63 S, which came with more powerful engines, sport-tuned suspensions, and other add-ons.

However, the fifth generation that debuted in 2024 has seen the E-Class bid its AMG models goodbye. Now, the C-Class is the only series of the two that lets you experience modern AMG thrills. Furthermore, the AMG C43 and C63 S sedans are the only gas-powered Mercedes-Benz sedans left bearing the AMG nameplate. If you want to experience performance thrills in a new car off the dealership lot, the C-Class is now the better bet.

And what thrills they are. The 402-horsepower, 369-pound-feet surge of the AMG C43 inline-four engine will give you a kick on Route 99 once you're past the city limits. If you want to scream down Interstate 5, you can do so with the 671-horsepower, 752-pound-feet beast of a powerplant in the C 63 S. Both vehicles have a redesigned adaptive-damping suspension, up to five driving modes, more aggressive body styling, special interior accents, and other features that make them the "fun" choice.

Body Styles: Sedan or Wagon?

The new generation of the E-Class has seen changes to the body options as well. The previous C-Class and E-Class had almost every model available as a sedan, coupe, or cabriolet/convertible. The larger size of the E-Class also allowed it to be sold as a wagon, opening more cargo space even on the lightning-quick E-Class AMG E63 S.

As part of the 2024 overhaul, Mercedes-Benz rescinded the coupe and convertible options in both classes and folded them into the new CLE-Class. This means the C-Class is only available as sedans as is the E350. If you want a non-sedan option, you'll need to turn to the E450, which comes as a sedan or an all-terrain wagon that is modified to be more like a crossover SUV. This offers the maximum cargo space of up to 64.6 cu.ft. plus seating for five, a lifted self-leveling suspension, available 19-inch wheels, and other ways to explore the areas of Oregon.

Both Models Offer a Variety of Modern Tech

The C-Class and E-Class are some of the most technologically advanced vehicles in their segments, so it feels a little wrong to compare them. Still, there are a few differences worth talking about. While both cars have a 12.3-inch digital instrument display for the driver, the 2024 E-Class infotainment touchscreen is 14.4 inches, while the C-Class screen is only 11.9 inches, which is almost certainly attributable to the available interior space. The new E-Class lineup now has the option for a separate 12.3-inch passenger touchscreen so they can operate the controls.

Beyond this, the options are largely the same. Each vehicle comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and phone charging. You also get two USB-C front ports, and optional add-ons include an in-car WiFi hotspot, built-in navigation, up to four more USB-C ports, online music streaming, and Burmester premium audio. They're all powered by an updated onboard computer and MBUX operating system. Simply because of the larger main screen and optional second screen, though, the E-Class gets the nod for Roseburg tech enthusiasts.

Come in Today and Let Us Help You Choose the Right Model

There is no wrong answer when it comes to choosing between the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and E-Class. The decision simply depends on your goals and needs. The C-Class offers more budget-friendly options while still giving you the chance to spice things up with the AMG and RWD models. Meanwhile, the E-Class has a roomier interior, more cargo space, and bigger screens for a more comfortable and immersive everyday driving experience-plus the option to tackle some back roads and light trails with the E450 All-Terrain.

Whatever Mercedes vehicle you're eyeing, you will find it at Mercedes-Benz of Medford. We are a family-operated Mercedes-Benz dealer near Roseburg that can help you find the right new C-Class or E-Class vehicle. We also have plenty of certified pre-owned models and a full-service center that includes a shuttle service and loaner cars. Come over Monday through Saturday for a test drive and discover compact or midsize German luxury.