In order to answer the above question, it’s important that we actually see what separates these two. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the E-Class sit one above the other in the brand’s lineup, and are two of the most important and successful of their cars. Also, while the C-Class occupies the relatively affordable compact segment, the E-Class is placed in the mid-size luxury segment. As for what they cost in the United Arab Emirates, the C-Class sedan starts at AED 165,000, while the latter starts from AED 205,000. Obviously, if you spec up the C-Class too aggressively, it could easily turn out to be more expensive than its larger sibling.
Next up, let’s get some of the basic figures out of the way. The 2019 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (C200) measures in at 4.686 meters X 1.810 meters X 1.442 meters in length, width, and height, respectively. Its wheelbase stretches 2.840 meters, and its total boot capacity is 481 liters. On the other hand, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz E-Class stands at 4.923 meters X 1.852 meters X 1.468 meters in length, width, and height, respectively. Meanwhile, the distance between its two axles comes in at 2.939 meters, and as for its boot volume, that’s clearly larger than C’s, at 540 liters. In terms of what’s under the hood of these two sedans, we will look at the base variant of each. The base trim of the 2019 C-Class is the C180, and it comes with a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. This small motor isn’t that gutsy, only making 156 hp and 250 Nm of torque. It sends its ponies to the rear wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission – enabling the C180 to hit 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 223 km/h. The base trim of the 2019 E-Class is the E200, which packs a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-banger that’s good for 184 hp and 300 Nm of torque. As with the former, the power’s pushed via a 9-speed automatic gearbox and sent to the rear wheels. This equates to a top speed of 240 km/h, and a naught to 100 km/h time of 7.7 seconds. However, despite its bigger size and larger engine, the latter is almost as frugal as the smaller C-Class. If it’s the exterior design and styling that we are talking about, then I think there are no winners or losers, here. Personally, my pick would be the C-Class. But then again, both of these luxury sedans look the part, without even breaking a sweat.
Inside, both the C-Class and the E-Class have some of the best and most interesting designs in the industry. However, if it’s the best that we are looking for, then I’d have to hand the win to the E-Class. Even though the cabin of the new C-Class is sophisticated and feature-rich, it doesn’t come close to that of the mighty E. Not only is the styling more sophisticated, the interior of the E-Class also comes across as more elegant and regal in its whole appearance. It also boasts a softer, more fluid dash design, and some of the most visually-striking air-con vents that I’ve ever seen – the spectacular turbine-like design looks marvelous. Also better than in the C-Class, are the E-Class’s fantastic and stunning high-definition dual screens for the instruments and the infotainment system. It’s somewhat of a similar story when it comes to the build and material quality and the overall fit-and-finish of the two cars. While the C-Class scores plenty well on its own, the E-Class simply fares better.
Objectively speaking, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a better car than its younger sibling. However, this is somewhat similar to comparing the Apple iPhone XS Max and the iPhone XR. Both are solid choices, but aimed at different buyers with different requirements and budgets.
Editor's Pick:
What is the difference between the C Class and E Class Mercedes
