Mercedes C200 vs. E200: The 5 Differences & Which Is Best?
Two popular models from Mercedes-Benz are the Mercedes C200 and the Mercedes E200.
Both are top-tier options, but they aren’t identical twins.
In this article, we’ll explore five key differences between the Mercedes C200 and E200. We’ll delve into engine performance, standard features, dimensions, styling, and the all-important price tag.
The main difference between the Mercedes C200 and E200 is that the C200 is sportier with smaller dimensions and lower weight, while the E200 is more luxurious and is equipped with a larger 2.0-liter engine.
So, whether you’re an aspiring owner or someone who loves to know the ins and outs of vehicles, stick around – there’s plenty to learn!
5 Differences Between The Mercedes C200 And E200
Let’s check out all the differences between these C-Class and E-Class models!
1. Engine and performance
The heart of any vehicle is its engine, and it’s no different with the Mercedes C200 and E200. This is where we find our first key difference.
The C200 is powered by a 1.5-liter petrol engine, while the E200 houses a larger 2.0-liter petrol engine.
Here is an overview of the engines of the C200 and E200 and their performance:
| Mercedes | Engine | Power (bhp) | Torque (Nm) | 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) | Top speed |
| C200 | 1.5-liter petrol | 201 | 300 | 7.3 seconds | 153 mph (246 km/h) |
| E200 | 2.0-liter petrol | 194 | 320 | 7.5 seconds | 149 mph (240 km/h) |
As you can see, the C200’s 1.5-liter petrol engine pushes out an impressive 201 brake horsepower (bhp), which is more than the E200’s 2.0-liter petrol.
Fun fact: Did you know that the Mercedes C-Class can last over 280,000 miles?
Although the E200’s horsepower is slightly less at 194 bhp, it has a bit more torque, registering 320 Nm.
When it comes to fuel consumption, the C200 shows off its efficiency by consuming only 6.2 liters per 100 km, which is about 46 MPG UK.
The E200 comes in at 7.2 liters per 100 km, approximately equal to 39 MPG UK. It’s one of the E-Class’s most fuel-efficient engines!
Reader’s tip: Mercedes E-Class: Regular Or Premium Gas? (2024 Guidelines)
So, in terms of engine and performance, the C200 offers a touch more power and better fuel efficiency, while the E200 has a bit more torque.
But we’ve got more differences to cover, so let’s keep moving!
Related article: Which Mercedes E-Class Engine Is Best In 2024? (+2 To Avoid)
2. Standard features
Switching from engines and performance, let’s dive into the more comfort-oriented features.
Mercedes cars are always packed with fantastic standard features, and the C200 and E200 are no exceptions.
The C200 has plenty of standard features designed for comfort. You’ll find everything from automatic climate control to an ambient lighting system:
However, stepping into the E200 feels like you’ve been upgraded to first class. The first thing you’ll notice is the display. The E200 sports a more sophisticated, higher-resolution display, making everything easier to see, from navigation maps to multimedia.
Comfort gets even more personal in the E200 with the front seat memory settings. This feature is a game changer if more than one person drives the car.
You can save your preferred seat position, and with a push of a button, the seat adjusts to your individual settings. Say goodbye to the hassle of manually adjusting your seat every time you hop in!
Safety is another area where the E200 shines. The PRESAFE feature, standard on the E200, enhances your safety by preparing the car if it senses an imminent collision.
It tightens seatbelts, closes windows and the sunroof, and even adjusts your seat to an optimal position for safety.
In essence, the C200 and E200 are fitted with many standard features to elevate your driving experience. However, the E200 gets the edge in this category!
3. Dimensions and weight
Size does matter in cars, and the Mercedes C200 and E200 prove just that.
The C200 is a bit more compact, perfect for those quick city spins.
Its length stands at a neat 475.1 cm (about 187 inches), making it easier to navigate in those tighter city spots.
Not to mention, it weighs in at 1668 Kg (around 3677 lbs) when fully loaded with all the necessary fluids, making it lighter on its feet than the E200.
The C200 also features a respectable boot space of 455 liters (roughly 16 cubic feet) – roomy enough for those weekend getaways or monthly grocery hauls.
On the flip side, we have the slightly larger E200. This one stretches out to a length of 493.5 cm (about 194 inches), offering more legroom for passengers.
It’s heavier, too, with a weight of 1718 Kg (approximately 3788 lbs), which lends to its solid, robust feel.
And for the serial shoppers among you, the E200 offers a trunk capacity of 540 liters (around 19 cubic feet) – ready to swallow up all your luggage, and then some.
To boil it down, if you prefer a nimble, easy-to-handle ride, the C200’s compact size and lighter weight might appeal to you. But if spaciousness and a bigger boot tick your boxes, the E200 seems to be your kind of ride.
4. Styling
When it comes to looks, both the C200 and E200 are nothing short of stunners. After all, they’re Mercedes cars – style is practically a given. But let’s delve a bit deeper into the design aesthetics.
The C200, despite its more compact dimensions, still carries a lot of visual appeal. It features sleek lines and a modern silhouette, with a design language that screams sophistication and agility.
Its front grille is expressive, framed by intelligently designed LED headlights. The overall look is youthful, dynamic, and sure to turn heads on the city streets.
The E200, with its slightly larger frame, exudes a more commanding presence. It’s got a more mature, elegant vibe about it, with sharp lines and a beautifully contoured shape.
The front end is bold, with a prominent grille and strikingly designed LED headlights that lend a distinctive look. The E200’s style is more about asserting luxury and status on the road.
In essence, when it comes to styling, it’s a matter of personal taste. The C200 offers a modern, sporty look, while the E200 is all about classic elegance and status.
5. Price tag
Ah, the price – the factor that can make or break a buying decision.
We all want value for our money, and the phrase “you get what you pay for” is often accurate with luxury cars.
For the C200, it’s like getting the VIP treatment without the VIP price tag. It offers a fantastic mix of performance, comfort, and style, making it a value-packed choice for those who want a slice of the Mercedes luxury without breaking the bank.
The E200 is usually around £5,000 to £10,000 more than the C200.
But remember, you’re getting a larger car with more interior space and that little extra bit of prestige that comes with the E-Class badge. It’s a step up in the world of Mercedes, and for some, it’s a step worth taking.
It’s all about what you’re looking for and, of course, what your wallet has to say about it.
Tip: Take a look at this article if you’re interested in buying a Mercedes C-Class: Mercedes-Benz C-Class Reliability: Which Years To Avoid?
What is the best choice? (Mercedes C200 vs. E200)
If you’ve made it this far, you’ve realized that the Mercedes C200 and E200 both have their unique qualities. So, which one is best?
As with many things, it depends on what you’re looking for in a car.
Are you looking for a compact yet high-performing car that’s fun to drive, stylish, and budget-friendly? If that’s the case, the Mercedes C200 could be your ideal match. Its smaller dimensions make it ideal for navigating city traffic and finding those hard-to-get parking spaces.
On the other hand, if you value superior comfort, extra space, advanced features, and don’t mind paying a bit more for those luxuries, then the Mercedes E200 might be better.
Related article: Is A Mercedes E-Class Worth It In 2024? (10 Pros & Cons)
One more tip, if you ever find yourself comparing the C200 vs. the C300 or the E200 vs. the E300, an alternative might be to get a RaceChip.
RaceChip is a company offering Plug & Drive tuning box systems for many car models. They can be installed by yourself without needing any specialist knowledge or tools.
In fact, it will only take 10 to 15 minutes, and when you buy a RaceChip, you’ll receive car model-specific installation instructions!
For example, using a RaceChip, you can give your Mercedes E200 a performance boost of up to 52 horsepower and 85 Nm:
And the best thing is, a RaceChip is much more affordable than the upgrade from an E200 to an E300. You can check out RaceChip’s website here!
Conclusion
There you have it – a detailed comparison of two members of the Mercedes family, the C200 and the E200.
Each model has its unique charm, whether it’s the C200’s city-friendly compactness and affordability or the E200’s larger stature, advanced features, and aura of prestige.
At the end of the day, both models deliver the stellar performance, comfort, and style that Mercedes is renowned for, albeit in their distinct ways.
We hope this comparison has helped clarify the key differences between the Mercedes C200 and E200 and, more importantly, nudged you a little closer to finding your dream car!
More comparisons
Not sure yet about these C-Class or E-Class models? If so, check out our other comparisons here:
