![320i vs C200 cover]()
Previously, we've compared the BMW 330i and the Mercedes-Benz C300. Since then, BMW Malaysia has introduced a new variant to the G20 3 Series lineup - the 320i. Once more, we’re pitting these two against each other but at one rung below, the BMW 320i vs the Mercedes-Benz C200.
![320i vs C200 specs]()
What's better BMW 3 Series or Mercedes C-Class?
One of the major differences between them is the powertrain; the BMW 320i is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder that makes 184 PS and 300 Nm, the Mercedes-Benz C200 gets a 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder supplemented by a 48-volt starter generator, making it a mild hybrid, which puts out an identical power of 184 PS but a lower torque of 280 Nm.
![Mercedes-Benz C200 headlamp]()
Exterior wise, the BMW 320i wears Sport Line trim while the Mercedes-Benz C200 sports Avantgarde trim. Both are on 18-inch wheels and both get LED headlamps, but the ones on the 320i are adaptive.
![BMW 320i front]()
Moving inside, both have keyless entry with push start button and tri-zone automatic climate control. The Mercedes-Benz C200 has a 10.25-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. In the BMW 320i, there’s an 8.8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay only, for now.
![BMW 320i interior]()
The Mercedes-Benz C200 gets a higher speaker count with 9 speakers compared to 6 speakers on the 320i. As for the instrument display, the Mercedes-Benz C200 has a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument display whereas analogue gauges make a return to the BMW 320i, although there’s a 5.7-inch display blending in with the gauges.
![Mercedes-Benz C200 interior]()
Next, front seats of the Mercedes-Benz C200 have memory function while it is available only for the driver seat in the BMW 320i. The Mercedes-Benz C200 one ups the BMW 320i again by having 7 airbags instead of 6, with a knee airbag. The BMW 320i has wireless charging though.
![BMW 320i centre console]()
As for active safety features, the Mercedes-Benz C200 has Blind Spot Assist and Pre-Safe System, which includes autonomous emergency braking. Sadly, the BMW 320i doesn’t get any form of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS).
![Mercedes-Benz C200 intrument cluster]()
So, which is better, the BMW 3 Series or the Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
Although the Mercedes-Benz C200 is pricier at RM 259,888, it’s better equipped than the BMW 320i which is priced at RM 243,800. But as always, do check out both cars in person or better yet, drive them to know how they feel. Because at this level, your emotions should have a say in the decision.
