sudo

Hi mbworld,I was curious if anyone had real world experience performance wise against BMW M2/3's or Audi RS3's (all cars in stock form). I know these are not "direct competition" like the 340i/S4's, but was wondering none the less how they fare in terms of 0-60, handling, and performance in general. I love the C43 interior and the sound, and with the slight bump in horse power for 2019 it really has me thinking how it will stack up. Also does anyone know if Mercedes underestimates their horsepower figures slightly in these vehicles? I've heard the actual horsepower is a little higher (10-15hp) than what they publicly state, or is that just internet rubbish. Cheers!

C43Ayemgee

I cross shopped the 440i, M3, and porsche cayman before settling for the C43. People get around 0-60 4-4.2 stock in these cars and mid 3's on a tune. I settled for the C43 because you get the most performance for the price out of all those cars + the AWD helps a lot. RS3 and M3 are a tiny bit quicker but also cost a lot more. I believe the base lease on a m3 was around $800-900, and the Cayman was 600-700, 440i goes for around 600. My c43 is mid 5's...So its the best bang for the buck out of all those. C43 handles great and puts down the power.

MVEOVR

BMW and Audi interiors and exterior have always been meh for me. I think the c43 sounds better than those you've listed as well.

pghc63

I'll give you real life experience having owned M2 and current M3
C43 is equivalent to 340 BMW level , but much better. It is not at an M car level, because it is not meant to be
RS3 is a fun car but interior is average , and a little smaller , may be more fun driving than C43
What I will do
if no need for all wheel drive M3
if need AWD either C43 or RS3 depends on what you like.. Also , if leasing, forget RS3 , as lease numbers on them are offensive like 1300 a month vs 700 for C43 give or take 100 dollars

sudo

Thank you to each of you, this is the type of info I was looking for