Mercedes GLC 300 vs. GLC 43: 7 Differences & Which Is Best?
So, you’re deciding between the Mercedes GLC 300 and the AMG GLC 43, right?
Let’s break down the differences and help you pick!
The main difference between the Mercedes GLC 300 and the AMG GLC 43 is that the GLC 300 has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine, while the GLC 43 has a 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbo engine.
7 Differences between the Mercedes GLC 300 and the AMG GLC 43
Ready to learn more?
Awesome!
But first, a quick overview table of all the differences between the GLC 300 and the GLC 43:
| Differences | GLC 300 | vs. | GLC 43 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Engine | 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo | 3.0L 6-cylinder turbo | |
| 2. Performance | 255 hp and 295 lb-ft | 385 hp and 384 lb-ft | |
| 3. Weight | 3,889 lbs | 4,191 lbs | |
| 4. Fuel economy | 23 combined MPG | 20 combined MPG | |
| 5. Wheel size | 18-inch wheels | 20-inch AMG wheels | |
| 6. All-wheel drive vs. rear-wheel drive | Available as an RWD or with 4MATIC AWD | Always comes with 4MATIC AWD | |
| 7. Price | Starts at $49,100 | Starts at $68,200 |
Now, let’s dive into the details!
1. Engine
The main difference between these two is the engine.
The Mercedes GLC 300 has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine. It’s a rather compact engine, but it is still remarkably smooth and powerful.
However, there’s no denying that the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 has a far superior engine, the 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbo.
Comparing these two, it’s evident that the GLC 43 has the upper hand if pure power and sound are what you’re after.
2. Performance
Let’s talk about the numbers and real-world feel.
Here is an overview of the engines of the GLC 300 and GLC 43 and their performance:
| Mercedes | Engine | Power (hp) | Torque (lb-ft) | 0 to 60 mph |
| GLC 300 | 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo | 255 | 295 | 5.6 seconds |
| GLC 43 | 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbo | 385 | 384 | 4.7 seconds |
The GLC 300, with its 2.0L engine, manages to put out a respectable 255 horsepower and a torque of 295 lb-ft. It accelerates from 0 to 60 in 5.6 seconds. Not bad!
But if you love the rush of adrenaline, the AMG GLC 43 is like a roller coaster ride. Its 3.0-liter engine has 385 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to hit the 0 to 60 mark in an exhilarating 4.7 seconds!
To put it plainly, the GLC 300 offers a more than adequate performance for everyday use, while the GLC 43 is for those moments when you want to hear the engine roar and feel like you’re in that ‘sports car’ fantasy.
3. Weight
Next is a topic that might seem a bit dry on the surface, but trust me, it’s essential: weight.
Think of it like this: if you’re light on your feet, you can move more quickly and effortlessly. Similarly, a car’s weight affects how agile and responsive it feels on the road.
The GLC 300 tips the scales at 3,889 lbs. On the flip side, the AMG GLC 43 weighs a more substantial 4,191 lbs.
The GLC 300, with its comparatively lighter weight, offers more nimble handling compared to the GLC 43.
However, sometimes, more weight can be an advantage. The GLC 43’s 4,191 lbs will give it a more grounded and stable feel, especially at higher speeds.
4. Fuel economy
The next difference lies in the fuel economy.
The GLC 300 offers 23 combined MPG, while the GLC 43 manages a combined 20 MPG.
With its bigger engine and sportier credentials, the GLC 43 lags a bit behind, but remember that performance comes at a price.
But for the thrill it offers, many would argue it’s worth the trade-off.
In essence, if saving at the pump is top of your list, the GLC 300 is best. But if you’re okay with a slightly thirstier ride in exchange for that sporty performance, the GLC 43 won’t let you down.
Reader’s tip: Mercedes GLC: Regular Or Premium Gas? Find Out What’s Best!
5. Wheel size
The Mercedes GLC 300 comes on 18-inch wheels, which, to be honest, balance style and comfort. They don’t give the car the best looks, but they’re sure very comfortable to ride around with.
However, being from the Mercedes-AMG division, the GLC 43 comes as standard with imposing 20-inch AMG wheels.
Like wearing those flashy high-top sneakers that grab attention at a party, these wheels enhance the car’s overall aesthetic, making it look more sporty and aggressive.
Besides looks, larger wheels can provide a slightly firmer grip on the road, especially during spirited drives.
However, a word of caution: while bigger wheels can enhance the vehicle’s appearance, they do slightly compromise the comfort on bumpy roads.
It’s a bit like those stylish shoes; they look fantastic, but after a long day, you might feel it.
6. Rear-wheel drive vs. all-wheel drive
When it comes to drive systems, the GLC 300 offers you more flexibility than the GLC 43.
You can either go for the rear-wheel drive (RWD) variant or opt for the 4MATIC all-wheel drive (AWD) system.
So, what’s the difference?
RWD is more lively and has a rearward push, making the car feel playful, especially around turns. But while it’s great for dry conditions, it might not be the best on wet surfaces.
That’s where the 4MATIC AWD comes in.
Power is distributed to all four wheels, giving you better traction.
Now, the GLC 43 always comes with the 4MATIC AWD system. It’s like Mercedes-Benz is giving you that trusty grip and stability by default!
7. Price
Last but not least is the price.
After all, as much as we love the bells and whistles, the budget often dictates our choices, right?
The GLC 300 has a starting price of $49,100. Considering the luxury, performance, and brand prestige, this feels like a surprisingly reasonable price.
Now, due to its much-improved performance and standard features, the AMG GLC 43 has a heftier price tag starting at $68,200.
So, what’s the bottom line?
The GLC 300 offers incredible value for money, especially if you’re looking for a blend of luxury and functionality. The GLC 43, on the other hand, is for those willing to splurge a bit more for that extra layer of performance and exclusivity.
What is the best choice?
Making a choice between the Mercedes GLC 300 and the AMG GLC 43 boils down to understanding what you truly value in a vehicle.
Here are some things you should consider:
- Daily commute and budget: If your daily drive involves driving through city streets, parking in tight spots, or simply getting from point A to B in comfort, the GLC 300 is more than adequate. Its balanced performance and efficiency make it the most sensible choice for most people.
- Thrills: For those who have an appetite for power and love to hear the roar of a beastly engine every time they hit the pedal, the AMG GLC 43 is your match. It’s tailored for individuals seeking a sportier, more thrilling driving experience.
In summary, the GLC 300 shines as a daily luxury driver with fantastic value, while the GLC 43 stands out as the performance-oriented sibling that’s always ready to play.
One last tip is that if you ever want to get close to the power of the GLC 43 in your GLC 300, you can always consider getting 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!
Using a RaceChip, you can give your Mercedes GLC 300 a performance boost of up to 54 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque:
And the best thing is that a RaceChip is much more affordable than the upgrade from a GLC 300 to a GLC 43. You can check out RaceChip’s website here!
Conclusion
And there we have it!
We’ve put the Mercedes GLC 300 and GLC 43 head-to-head, examining the differences in their engines, performance, weight, and more!
If you’re considering these models, we highly encourage you to take them for a test drive.
After all, nothing can truly replicate the feeling of being behind the wheel, experiencing the drive for yourself.
From personal experience, I can say Mercedes rarely disappoints. You get that nice feeling of being wrapped in luxury, no matter which you pick.
Good luck!
More comparisons
Not sure yet about these GLC models? If so, check out our other comparisons here:
