CARS YOU CROSSED SHOPPED w/ the C43?
 

Most if not all folks on this forum agree what a great car the c43 is and either own one or have ordered one. But I thought it might be interesting to see what other cars were on your short list that lead to this particular car. Was it due to performance, tech, luxury, safety, brand, value, looks or all of the above? What other cars did you consider and test drive?

Regarding myself, I owned a Lexus is350 for almost 10 years. It was a great car and actually was pretty quick in it’s day (0-60 in 5 secs flat). Never had any problems with it in those 10 yrs. But as much I hated to get rid of it, (it was long paid off after all), it was time I wanted to get something else.

I really wanted a sports/sportier car, something completely different then the Lexus. So here are the cars I was considering and/or test drove:
Corvette Grand Sport-test drove
Porsche Cayman-sat in
Jaguar F Type-sat in

Mercedes Benz c63 coupe-test drove
Mercedes Benz c43 coupe-test drove
Mercedes Benz e53 coupe-test drove
Lexus RCF- sat in
BMW M2-sat in
BMW M4-sat in
Audi S5-sat in

Without getting into long reviews/opinions of each car, the c43 was the best of all worlds...at least for me.

For example, although the Vette surpasses the c43 from a performance perspective on pretty much every measurable statistic, the c43 was great in so many other areas, (luxury, technology, safety features, practicality etc) and yet was still an awesome performance car and fun to drive, that it became obvious it was a great choice.

The c63, as another example was also on the top of the list and checked a lot of the same boxes as the c43. However as I’ve mentioned in another thread, what the car mags and reviews etc don’t tell you is how inaccessible the c63 is, at least it was for me at the time I wanted to pull the trigger on buying one. (There were only 32 in the entire county and it would take 9-12 months to order one according to two different dealers).

In regards to the other cars such as the BMW’s, Audi and the Lexus it came down to more subjective areas. Although all great cars, I wasn’t really crazy about either the exteriors or interiors or both of any of them.

What was your experience and what “drove” you to C43?

My car before my C43 was 2010 Camaro 2LT RS. Before deciding on the 18 C43, I thought about the following (all 18 models): Camaro 2SS, BMW M240i, BMW 440i, Porsche Cayman 718, Jaguar F-type, and Corvette Stingray 2LT. Given a 10 yr-old daughter (that loves fast cars), I had to eliminate the 2-seaters as just not practical for a daily driver, plus except for the Corvette, not as fast 0-60 times (based on what I could afford). Drove the C43 and loved it at first drive, and both wife and daughter said I was nuts if I favored either BMW. So, I chose the C43 - no regrets. Love the exterior looks, interior finishes, and performance!

Great and interesting!

Well, I've been driving Saabs nearly all my life. I love them. I currently have a 9-3 Sport Sedan MY2003 tuned with around 325bhp (brakes, engine, Lsd in the gearbox etc...) exterior it's like the standard car Aero sportier version, it's a purely wolf sheep clothing. And Also i have a 92' 900 convertible. (pre-GM one).

I like that superb combination of comfort, sporty and safety. The quirckness and uniqueness of the Saab, the turbo engine, ergonomics of the interior and those details that makes the life easier.

The dealer was forced to close it's door last year, and now finding another dealer/mechanic it's becoming a nightmare and certain repairs also. For this reason was time to find a new car and leave the Saab as a "second/reserve" car, for the price i will receive selling it, it's not worth it and I love this car.

I set a budget and preference (as a finance guy I am... :)), if not you set a preference and stay on it, if not, then you begin with... as I am here, why not if I pay a little bit more and take that one and so and so and I will endup with a 911...

My preference where clear;

Sport sedan, over 350bhp at least. And something different than a 4 cylinder (I already have one) and basically as everybody talks about Electric/hybrid BS... basically i am tired of that as in some years let's see what happens, if it's my last combustion engine, let's enjoy it.

My first option and preference was the Audi RS3 Sedan. I like the design, 5c engine, power of 400bhp, sound, wheight/power ratio it's superb and an incredible performer. But Audi since last year they are having a lot of issues with the WLTP emissions rules in EU. Since august last year all S and RS models stopped the production and now they are producing again some models. Now the new S4, S5 etc... in Europe will be V6 diesels, Audi dealer last year said to me and now become true. I discarded the S4,S5 since the begining. weak points of the RS3, basically it's an old design, and smaller than the Saab, perfect size for me it's the midsize sedan.

I looked at the Jaguar XE, but now they have a 4 cylinder and just 300bhp, the gearbox it's bad as hell in terms of performance, noticeable lag and not clear when it will be launched the facelift, also the reliability was an issue

Volvo S60 Polestar. Asked for it and no clue when will be available, etc etc... Again 4 cilinder, hybrid and not clear if it will have the "sportier" feeling I was looking at it and my concern is it will be "boring" and not engaging.

BMW, I don't like them, I don't feel comfortable in a BMW, they drive incredibly well, but I don't like them, I don't see me in a BMW, sorry. Also not clear when the new M340 will be available.

and then the second option I look at if the RS3 sedan "plan" fail was the c43 AMG, I looked at the others and which options I have, but basically on the power range I was looking at, no more options available. or they are not available or simply It's a less powerful car. On the range over 350 and around 400bhp, price range, no more Sedans (Kia Stinger, I read good reviews, but sorry I don't see me in a Kia, I don't like it...), but I was looking at a. Also if I go further, then I took the C63 and so, but I didn't wanted to spend that level of money in the car.

Similar to the Audi, the C43, it's has some years, in 2 years as much the new model will arrive, but at least it's been done a recent facelift. It's a midzide sedan, more luxurious, instead it's not as powerful and performer than the Audi.

All this research was done during the end of 2018, and at the moment I look at the RS3 sedan I had in my mind the C43 AMG as a second option, I look at both and as Audi had the production in hold, after waiting months and no news, in November I just decided for the C43AMG.

before my 19 c43 had a c300 2014.. nothing crazy but my stepdad had ml63 and now gle63s coupe, my brother an S5 and mom BMW i8 and tesla so i did try some nice car when i was looking to change my c300 i wanted something awd with sporty feeling with 4sec range 0-60 not to expensive etc..

so i did try Tesla model3, Gulia, Golf R, C43, S4/S5, and i was one of the first in canada to test drive the BMW m340i and hear the sound of it to be honest the new G20 bmw m340i was my choice, the sporty feeling when driving was amazing and the exhaust sound backfire are insane.
i think c43 and m340i is a tough choice i did go for c43 for the overall, sound, interior and it seem that people lost interest in bmw where i am..

didn't tryed any lexus i love the look but in the 0-60 times nothing in the 4 range.. for my price range

as for the audi i dont like the exterior looking except the light the Rs3 is AMAZING but i dont like small car

tesla without grill is meh

Gulia was weird overall but had an amazing power delivery

CLA45. Fast as hell but the suspension was way to stiff for an enjoyable ride.

Great story and great choices in cars! Yeah I have a 13 yr old daughter, and the Vette was out (as was the f-type and cayman). Could have pushed thru with getting the vette but anytime I would want to take her and her friends someplace, or take my wife and her someplace I’d have to take my wife’s car. Then it’s sort of what’s the point of buying an expensive car that’s going to sit there most of the time!

Enjoy your C43...your wife and daughter have great taste in cars too!

Thanks for sharing Edc43amg...good read!

It is a very interesting perspective based on your location compared to the US. I’ve always liked Saab’s. I always thought they were unique and cool cars. Sadly you can’t purchase new ones here in the US any longer.

I hear ya about more and more car manufacturers going with either 4 cylinder turbos (Porsche cayman) or the electric route. Truth be told I never owned a car with turbos. So still a bit nervous about the c43 in terms of reliability etc. I have always driven Naturally aspirated engines. The Vette and the Lexus RCF are some of the few cars out there that offer it. In 5 to 10 years I doubt you will see any out there.

regarding the BMW, great cars, just wasn’t crazy about them like I was about the Mercedes cars. Same with Audi’s. When the s5 first came out i thought it was one of nicest looking cars out there for the money. But I think their designs have lost their way imo.

Congrats on your c43...enjoy!

Was looking at S4s and S5 SBs but the new model feels too soft- new engine is laggy and the whole thing feels disengaged.

Also considered an RS3 but felt it was probably too small and they lease horribly so wasnt sure about actually buying something i wasnt sold on size wise.

Really dont care for BMWs but the 2020 340 looks compelling.

I’ve never driven one but I’ve heard that as well Noah.

Yeah I was disappointed with the S5. You really have to move up he RS5 to get the performance, But then it starts getting pricey.

Interesting most folks cross shopping Audi seem to be looking at s3,s4 s5 etc. Did you consider the TT?

wow some awesome rides in your entire family lol!

Also interesting cross shopping choices to the c43 I didn’t really think of, like the Tesla 3 and the Golf R. I did consider the Gulia, but I really wanted a coupe and the reliability with the Alfa Romeos was questionable at best.

Best of luck and enjoyment with your C43!

I landed on a C43 Wagon. In Canada, there is not a lot to cross shop, as I didn't want to go to an SUV. Ultimately, I decided to get something fun and similar to others, I've driven enough 4 cylinders (2012 A4 Avant, 2008 A4, 2003 Accord) that I was ready for a 6 or 8.
The only other vehicle what was close was the Porsche Macan GTS, great sound, speed, and colors beyond monochrome.
Looked at the SQ5, and without doing a Exclusiv paint order, the color options are so dull and dreadful.
So a wagon with more than 4 cylinders..... in Canada, there is only the C43. The Jag XE shooting brake was never offered, Audi only has the allroad with a 2.0turbo, BMW, just a 3 series wagon with the 2.0 turbo, I think the only other option that fits the requirement (but not the budget) is the E class wagon.

I was set on electric, but nothing is quite "there" yet. Nothing ticks enough boxes for the price.... yet. Maybe next time.

Only a few more weeks of waiting and it should be here from Germany.

I tried all 4 of the big European dealers, Porsche (718 Cayman) BMW (M4 and M2 and 440i) Audi (RS5, S5, S3) and Mercedes (C43, CLA45) In my opinion the interior of the Porsche and BMW was absolutely lacklustre. While Porsche looks great from the exterior the interior did nothing but bore me. The BMW was the same, I never looked at either of those cars and said wow that’s a nice digital display or a beautiful steering wheel. All 4 manufacturers were very fun to drive, but Audi’s virtual cockpit and Mercedes digital cluster made it that much more fun.

I live in Canada as well, so to spend 70k+ on a vehicle which wouldn’t be practical for very long winters, I would need something with AWD. My father has a 14 BMW 435i and the Xdrive is amazing in the snow so +1 to BMW. I also tried Chevrolet’s Corvette, amazing looking car, lots of power but unfortunately it’s RWD and they are quite popular up here, I want to have a car that people say wow what is that?

All in all I felt the C43 (facelift) was the best looking car inside and out. The front splitter and rear diffuser look wonderful. And like I said as soon as I saw the interior of the C43 I said wow. The exhaust was also another deal breaker, to have that as a stock option is awesome. All that and for a fairly reasonable price is why I am choosing the C43!

not really-- i think the TTRS would make a cool weekend toy (but if youre getting a weekend toy maybe might as well get a cayman) but not sure id want to live daily with the size, cockpit, styling. also annoys me its a fair bit pricier than the rs3 without any real performance edge

Also, im coming from high performance SUVs (modded Jeep SRT8, modded SQ5) so i considered these as well. id love a trackhawk but cant justify $95k for it, feel the current SRT is too slow and doesn't have much mod potential, and the wk2 in general is just big and heavy, not enamored with the F Pace (bigger than id like, jag quality/crap infotainment/tech) - dont like the styling or engine of the new sq5, again not a bmw fan..considered a glc43 or even a 63 but didnt want to wait for the 2020s to actually hit (though could see going to a glc63 after the c43) and think the macan gets stupid expensive and has little actual utility.

Jag XJ S, still old tech but drives great, you sit too low in car for me, and dealer was an ass.
Audi Q5 fastback, came close, exhaust is nothing to talk about, like Jag the seats were too low, too many tech issues and probs, great interior, too long a wait to get car I'd take, dealer was great but WAY to far away for me even though he said he's pick up and deliver car for any service. Went back to MB dealer for the umteenth time and a 2019 C43 in Cadibal Red was sitting out front. Funny, I had told no red, saw it and went in and made a deal.

I'm only interested in coupes. I was coming out of an S5 with a TT (VR6) prior to that. I looked at the TTRS but felt too cramped in it after driving the S5 for five years. I loved the 5 cylinder, the sounds that it makes is just intoxicating. I personally think that the first generation A/S/RS5 is one of the great all time coupe looks. I just didn't like what they did with redesign. The supercharged engine was a dream and had NO lag. I really don't believe that the new turbo would of gained any MPG's in real world driving. I had mine in Germany and it had the supercharger pulley upgrade with and APR tune. It dyno'd at almost 450 HP at the wheels and it was so much fun on the autobahn. I still averaged low to mid 20's MPG. So scratch the Audi's off the list.

I've owned BMW's and my wife currently drives an X3. I think BMW's interior design is so bland and boring. I spend most of the time inside the car so no BMW 440.

I thought about the Mustang/Camaro, but those things are so cheaply engineered and made it isn't even funny. Yeah, the V8's are great, but that doesn't excuse the rest of the car. The interiors are so cheap that spending just a few minutes in one made my stomach churn. The Challenger? If I wanted a 20 year old E-Class that can't go around corners I would buy one.

Never even considered the Infiniti (Nissan/Renault no thanks). Lexus? I wouldn't walk across the street for a Toyota.

I thought about the F-Type, but way too much money for suspect Jag quality.

An Alfa Giulia coupe would be intriguing. The 4C is way to small for my 6' 2" frame. And then there is the famous Alfa quality.

That basically left the C43. I think the face lift really made it better and after the test drive I was sold.

yep, completely agree about the BMW and Porsche interiors. Although I like the Porsche interior better then the Vette, which seemed almost low rent to me compared to all the other cars mentioned. And even Audi, which I always considered one of the best in the business didn’t really wow me either.

But yeah the c43 checked a lot more of he boxes for me then a lot of the competition.

All good points. Yeah looked at on line, just seemed too small for me. And the styling...well not my cup of tea lol!

i was only looking at coupes this time around as well. The Audi S5 used to an awesome car. But they screwed the pooch with the new design IMO.

I will say I actually was considering the RC-F. In 10 years and 85k mikes my is350 ran flawlessly, had zero issues with it. The problem with Lexus IS they are way too heavy. The Rc-f has a n/a v8 that should be smoking all of these cars but is just a brick, and I still can’t get used to that ugly grill. I think they are on the right track, but have a long way to go to compete with MB, BMW and Audi from a performance perspective.

Enjoy your c43!

lol I almost did the same thing. The dealer had a black c43 with everything else I wanted except it was black. I like black, but I’ve had black and gray cars for the past 23 years. If it was red...yeah I would have done the same thing and pulled the trigger😃!

Informative thread, I shopped Audi...lexus...bmw... but I am surprised no one looked at the caddy 564 hp 627 tq has crazy tech for track, debadged would be a killer sleeper. Also the infinity Q50s red 400 ponies but had no soul imo.

REALLY like the Caddy CT6 V but its $90+k, super limited quantity available and an orphan (though it may get a stay for a year, but very much up in the air) and caddy infotainment is still supposed to be trash. Kinda might as well look at E63s and M5s at that point.

I felt exactly the same way. Having driven a 350z convertible some years ago I was hoping to feel the same playfulness in the Infiniti but it just felt dead, from the steering to the power delivery.

Check out the Stinger, great car and value, would have gotten one but no way I could say I drove a Kia much less the dealership, yuck. Could now try the Genesis G70 Sport, a touch up but underneath the Genesis name is still a Kia and dealership.

I used to make fun of Mercedes when I was here (Germany) in the 90s as a young Joe, because they were all taxis...I was dead set on an RS3. I had decided to do a CLA 45 build through MAS here in Stuttgart to kill time.The salesman accidently sent me another person's C43 build. I went to the MB website, thought it was a great compromise, and this was when it was still the 18 model. I have owned a SCed E46 M3 and a SCed B7 RS4, so I thought it was time to try out AMGs offerings and placed my order for a 19. I went through some internal conflicts. Parking here is not condusive to low cars. My incline is 13 degrees, so I actually have to park backwards to avoid scraping. Plus, I am part of that camp that acknowledges the 35,43,53 series as AMG, but still want to have a full fat 45,63. I had thought of nixing and going with a GLC 63 Coupe. I decided to stay the course, and am glad I did. My "date" with Mercedes has been good so far.

The depreciation on these Korean cars are enough to make it the worst purchase decision of your life. I used to think that they were great cars, why do they depreciate so much? Then I took my previous Sonata in for a rattling issue for warranty and quickly realized where they get their bad name from.

My car before the C43 was a 2016 M235xi. I loved that car. I even went down to the Performance Center in South Carolina to take delivery. All-in-all it was a great experience. However, after driving the C43 for just over four months now, I have no regrets in switching to MB. The interior is far superior and the power delivery is much more seamless. And oh that sound! Admittedly I havenot driven the new M340 which I hear is awesome.

Was just trying to bring some levity to the discussion. Also drove a Caddy, there's no substance to them. They can't or won't even figure out who and what they are. They should shut everything else down but the Escalade, their one success and it's just a Chevy underneath.

ATS-V coined with best chassis in the segment - you're probably just driving the wrong ones.

Two good options...but for the money I think it was pretty pricy for the Caddy. I owned a 2004 G35 coupe which back in the day was a great and fun car. Sounded good as well. But the G50 Red, as good as it looks, reminded me too much of that car and I wanted something different. Never drove one so I can's speak to that, but I have read the same that is was kinda uninspiring.

I have to admit, at the Philly car show this year two unexpected brands caught my eye which were the Genesis and Kia. I wanted a coupe, so I really didn't look that much into them, but at the show the Stinger and the G70 looked fantastic. They also used to have one of the best warranties in the business...not sure if they still do.

S4 & Q50 Red Sport

I came from a '16 Lexus IS300 and wanted something more sporty and luxurious. I test drove the Lexus RC350 F Sport, Audi S5, BMW 440i M Sport and C43 AMG.

The RC was nice to too look at. However I couldn't get over the Toyota Corolla interior since it was the big reason I wanted to get rid of the IS300. It was also the least dynamic of the 4. Steering was non-existent and it was quite slow.

The S5 was very nice. The interior quality was top-notch and honestly a lot better than the C43. The materials felt nicer and it was definitely put together better. The layout was very busy and not my cup of tea but I could see how it could appeal to some people. The exterior was very nice as well, sophisticated, elegant, low-key. The design will age well however on the other hand not many people will know the difference between a '17 S5 and a brand new one. The performance felt a little short of the C43 though. It was just as fast, however it was plagued by the weight on the front end as all audi's are. It also didn't make a very nice sound. Very fart-box-y.

The 440i was my least favorite. In pictures the 440i looks great. In person, not so much. The interior was a complete let down. The design was so boring and looked exactly like my X5 I had in 2003. The quality also felt very cheap and plasticy. The performance was good, the steering was probably the best and the car felt the lightest, but it didn't excite me with the non-existent exhaust.

At the end of the day it was very close between the S5 and C43. I liked the design of the S5s exterior more but it wasn't as flashy and head turning as the C43. The interior of the S5 was definitely nicer. No arguing with that. But what sold me the C43 was the PE. S5 sticker price was $61,900 and the best deal I had for it was 55K OTD. C43 sticker price was $64,990 and I got it for 59K OTD.

I agree with most of what you stated. However I am surprised you liked the s5 interior that much better than the c43. It had nice materials and quality for the most part. But at least for me, I couldn't get past that black plastic air vent that runs the entire length of the dash. It just seemed to cheapen the whole interior.

I really wanted to like the S5, as I loved it when if first came out...thought it was one of the nicest looking coupes on the road. Today...eh not so much LOL.

Congrats on the C43 and enjoy!

Anyone ever consider purchasing a pre-owned car when cross shopping? Specifically more high end sports cars, GTs or even supercars?

For about the same money as a c43/c63 you could own one of these:

Porsche 91 2-3 years old
BMW M6 2-3 yrs old
MB S63 AMG coupe -4 yrs

Aston Martin Vantage, DB9 or Virage (3-7 yrs old)
Ferrari 360 Modena 15 yrs old
Ferrari California 8-10 yrs old
Ferrari f430 10-13yrs old
Audi R8 7-10 yrs old

Of course, with maybe the exception of the first three, reliability issues, maintenance costs, lack of new safety and tech features may make you come to your senses. But still it’s fun to consider.

I think the maintenance costs alone would be a killer. Even if, like myself, you do most of the maintenance yourself.

True, and that’s just one of the many reasons to not even consider a car like these.

On the other hand I would think these cars are pretty much done depreciating...especially the Ferrari. You could drive the the thing for another 30, 40, 50k miles and when you’re done after a few years conceptually sell it for what you purchased it (if not more).

Awesome btw, that you have the skill set to work on your own cars especially newer ones!

The M340i is aiming to go head-to-head with the C43 now. Pricing is similar, but BMW also offers RWD so a cheaper entry point. Can BMW's more aggressive leasing cause people to head over that direction?

Hardly, a skill set...Hahaha.. It would be awesome to pickup one of those cars listed, but OEM replacement parts would be a killer for me...Shoot, I had to buy all types of one off tools for my European high-ish end cars.

I found that I can get better deals on mercedes - I do have a fleet with them but it's always easier and lower monthly.

BMW used to be a lot more competitive - but lately if you want an M Sport anything it seems you get charged quite a bit for it. Their maintenance programs stopped offering brakes, etc. as a covered item in 2016 too, which was a huge selling point for someone like me who uses the car for business travel.

I have also heard the new 340 pricing is going to be high until the MY matures a bit.

I would think any new BMW or Audi that comes out on the market would get MB owners attention, regardless of lease deals.

But you raise a good point andyberger87! At this time of year and the end of the 2019's...does it make sense to wait and see what cool new 2020 MY cars are coming out before buying a C43 (or any car for that matter)?

Cars like the m340 is one, and good one at that, which is directly being designed and built to compete with the c43. But what about some of the other new rides such as the 2020 Caddy CT5, 2020 Lexus RC-F Track Edition, Shelby GT500, Toyota Supra, Corvette C8, Mazda RX-9....or even the new 2020 MB CLA that will have MBUX?

If I didn't already order one of the last 2019 c43 coupes, I may have been more inclined to wait and see what these new cars that are coming out are all about before ordering a 2020 c43.

I test drove the V-Sport. It's hand down the best driving car mentioned on this thread, and it isn't even close. There were a few things that turned me off though. Lackluster interior, doesn't hold value and Cadillac forcing you into expensive option packages just to get a couple of little things making it $12k more than a C43. If Cadillac did options the same way as MB I may be driving one.

Also drove:
Guilia - 4 banger underpowered and 6 is way to expensive and questionable quality, but nice ride & drive.
S4/5 - drove nice and nice interior, but exterior looks like a KIA.
BMW - came from one, was a money pit, won't buy another.
Q60 red - felt cheap and unrefined
Jag - have owned one, not the same level of refinement as the Germans
Macan - it IS NOT and SUV that handles like a sports car.

Never considered a Lexus, they're all too ugly and underpowered.

I would/could recommend checking out the Macan. Unfortunately the base model comes with a standard 4 cylinder so you'll be paying close to C63 money for even the S model - which I'd say is NECESSARY for it to be relative to the C43..

Couldn't agree more. Can't help but think if they had a v6 a step down from the Quadrifoglio I might be in one. But there's just way too much of a gap there.

The new M340 lease terms are terrible as would be expected for a new model. I just test drove the M340ix and I really liked it. I test drove the S4 and the C43 the same day and probably would pick the M340 but they lease so poorly that it’s probably out of the running for my next lease in a couple months. As a result I will be picking either the S4 and the C43. I’m bringing my wife tomorrow to test drive them to see which one she likes.

Cool choices! Will be interesting to see what you finally go with.

How was the interior in the M430?

Also wonder if anyone has test driven the new z4? I believe they’ve started to arrive at dealers? I personally wouldn’t choose it over a c43, but just curious what folks think of it.

No tesla 3 love? 3.4 secs to 100 with 450 hp and 471 tq just plug and play the only downfall...no soundtrack but otherwise very appealing.

Wanted an F-type but sat in it and realized that at 6’4” it wasn’t going to happen. Thought the BMW interiors suck and since I’m sitting IN the car all the time I want a nice interior.

Wanted a coupe because I’ve been driving sedans my whole life and I’m on a minor midlife crisis (plus they just look so much better....).

Drove an S5 and was just unimpressed. Not as solid feeling or as fast as the C43, and I thought the interior was a step down too (I seem to be in the minority on that assessment).

So it was down to E400 and C43. Really thought I would get the E400 (same engine, not much more weight, figured I would tune it) but then I sort of drove the C43 on a whim and was sold.

In retrospect it might have been interesting to drive a Macan. Next year will probably be looking at Macan S, E53 coupe, 911, AMG GT53, GLC63s. Weird bunch but it is what it is.

I think joeclou in one of the posts above test drove one but didn’t care for the styling.

For me I never drove or even sat in a Tesla 3. But I think overall it’s a cool car especially the performance numbers. And my understanding is it now comes with autonomous features and things like 20” wheels as standard.

But I wanted a coupe, and if I’m being honest, not really crazy about the styling even as a sedan. The bigger issue for me is the interior. Not a fan of everything being on the giant center screen...including the gauges. And from what I’ve read the interior is not luxurious and felt cheap inside. Pictures of the steering wheel look like it came out of a 1995 Pontiac. And there actually is noise/sound and not the good kind. Since there is no engine to cover it up, I’ve read you hear a lot of tire/road noise in the cabin.

Then there are stories about people who have tried to order a new 2019 model at full price only to be told they are getting a 2018 demo car. Not cool...

And for me, since these cars are so new, the jury is still out on the reliability or long term quality of these cars. I usually keep my cars 6-10 years.

I just feel like Tesla isn’t 100% there yet. Like a pie that needs to bake a little longer. They are certainly on the right track and what they’ve accomplished in a short time is astonishing really.

If if they can improve on their shortcomings, in 6-10 years my next ride might be Tesla.

Well my wife and I test drove all three yesterday. All three have pluses and minuses. All three are equally as fast based on specs online so that wasn't a factor.

M340 - Pros - best driving experience, very smooth
- new interior is really nice and a step up from prior models

Cons - Leases right now are terrible, at a sticker of $64,000 with me paying taxes (in MD we pay full tax on price of car up front), tags, first month payment, lease payment on a 3yr./36k mile lease comes out to be around $840 (terrible money factor, great residual, ok lease incentive)
- Exterior looks are ok, kind of plain

S4 - Pros - good driving experience
- my favorite interior, had massage seats and many adjustments to the seats including bolsters, etc. I also loved the carbon fiber interior and alcantara seats and doors.
- I loved the virtual cockpit and all of the things you could do with it.
- Had the most features for the money.
- I also loved the amount of customization with the ride, engine, tranny, etc.
- Leases pretty good, with a sticker of $64,000 with the same upfront payment above, the monthly lease would be around $700 (great money factor, terrible residuals, ok lease incentive)

Cons - Out of the three, looks the most boring and looks like it needs to be lowered an inch to look right.

C43 - Pros - Exterior looks the best and most aggressive.
- Leases the best out of the three. With a sticker of $64,000 with the same upfront payment above, the monthly lease would be around $630 (ok money factor, great residual, good lease incentives and since my friend is a GSM at the dealer, great discount)

- Cons - Ride was much rougher than the other three even in comfort mode and a lot more road noise as well.
- Interior was just ok, looked a little dated.
- Didn't like the column shifter.
- No option for heated rear seats or usb ports in the rear.

My wife and I agreed that out of the three with cost not being factored in, we would pick the BMW. I liked the S4 but my wife hated it, she just doesn't like the way it looks and couldn't get comfortable in it. We liked the C43 but agreed it was a little rough and the road noise was a little louder than we would have liked.

We have had a long history of having Lexus' and right now we have a Lexus IS350 and the lease is up in two months. We both are just done with it and can't wait to get out of it, it's the slowest 300hp car and gets terrible gas mileage and are just done with the brand in general since they are way too boring and haven't changed with the competition. We also daily drive a Durango SRT and have GTR that doesn't get driven much so we were hoping try out a new German brand this time around.

At the end of the day since cost is a factor and all have pluses and minuses, I think we will likely get the C43. I don't think the additional cost of the BMW is worth it to us.

I liked the interior of the new M340 a lot. I'm not sure what happened to my other post so let me try again.

Well my wife and I test drove all three yesterday. All three have pluses and minuses. All three are equally as fast based on specs online so that wasn't a factor.

M340 - Pros - best driving experience, very smooth
- new interior is really nice and a step up from prior models

Cons - Leases right now are terrible, at a sticker of $64,000 with me paying taxes (in MD we pay full tax on price of car up front), tags, first month payment, lease payment comes out to be around $840 (terrible money factor, great residual, ok lease incentive)
- Exterior looks are ok, kind of plain

S4 - Pros - good driving experience
- my favorite interior, had massage seats and many adjustments to the seats including bolsters, etc. I also loved the carbon fiber interior and alcantara seats and doors.
- I loved the virtual cockpit and all of the things you could do with it.
- Had the most features for the money.
- I also loved the amount of customization with the ride, engine, tranny, etc.
- Leases pretty good, with a sticker of $64,000 with the same upfront payment above, the monthly lease would be around $700 (great money factor, terrible residuals, ok lease incentive)

Cons - Out of the three, looks the most boring and looks like it needs to be lowered an inch to look right.

C43 - Pros - Exterior looks the best and most aggressive.
- Leases the best out of the three. With a sticker of $64,000 with the same upfront payment above, the monthly lease would be around $630 (ok money factor, great residual, good lease incentives and since my friend is a GSM at the dealer, great discount)

- Cons - Ride was much rougher than the other three even in comfort mode and a lot more road noise as well.
- Interior was just ok, looked a little dated.
- Didn't like the column shifter.
- No option for heated rear seats or usb ports in the rear.

My wife and I agreed that out of the three with cost not being factored in, we would pick the BMW. I liked the S4 but my wife hated it, she just doesn't like the way it looks and couldn't get comfortable in it. We liked the C43 but agreed it was a little rough and the road noise was a little louder than we would have liked.

We have had a long history of having Lexus' and right now we have a Lexus IS350 and the lease is up in two months. We both are just done with it and can't wait to get out of it, it's the slowest 300hp car and gets terrible gas mileage and are just done with the brand in general since they are way too boring and haven't changed with the competition. We also daily drive a Durango SRT and have GTR that doesn't get driven much so we were hoping try out a new German brand this time around.

At the end of the day since cost is a factor and all have pluses and minuses, I think we will likely get the C43. I don't think the additional cost of the BMW is worth it to us.

Great reviews and perspectives on all three cars. Just shows you how close and competitive these brands are.

Best of luck with your c43 purchase. Enjoy!

I'm coming out of a MY17 C43 and decided to go into a MY19 C43. Before I picked the C43 (again) I was thinking long, long, and hard about an E300 4Matic--luxury styling was even in the cards.

I was drawn to the size and smoothness of the E. Honestly, I think the E is the perfect sized Mercedes. Arguably not too big, certainly not too small, just right. I appreciate its higher quality interior, roomier cabin, and the ride afforded by the longer wheelbase and softer sprung suspension. The great fuel economy and quiet, mature demeanor of the car were also a draw.

But at the end of the day, I decided to go the fun route instead. I have plenty of time left on this planet (God willing) to drive a luxo barge :D

Yep, similar thing happened to me. Test drove the E53 coupe as I thought that would be THE car. And it almost was as it checked a lot of the boxes, But it just felt like a big heavy luxury car (or luxo barge as you mentioned lol. Which it is! It was a beautiful car. Drove smooth and was very very nice...and boring. The c43 was just a blast to drive...so fun, which is really what I was looking for.

Also, and I know I’m in the minority here, but I didn’t like the digital dash on the E53 which as I recall was standard. My wife hated it.

Agree with everything you stated.

I considered an f-type. Awesome looking car. But the interior is pretty small and was starting to look a little dated. They also kept the entry level price the same and put a 4 banger in it. Waaayyy over priced imo.

And yes, completely agree the S5 interior was very disappointing. So much so I didn’t even bother test driving it.

The e class are beautiful cars. But unless you are looking at a E63s, I found them sorta boring. Even the E53.

Congrats on your C43!

Very good assessment of the M340...

I regret not giving the C43 a test drive, I immediately dismissed it due to Mercedes having the gear shifter on steering column, can't stand that look, other than that the exhaust note is good.

So far I'm enjoying the M340, although I'm still getting over the sticker shock! Even with 7k off before incentives, lease payment is in the low 800s!! Not too far from my 2016 M4 that I just turned in...

The lease deals just got better for the M340 so I am going to order the car this afternoon. I got 11% off before incentives so now my payment will be $700 with taxes and tags paid up front on a $65k car built how I want it. A comparably priced C43 would have been about $630 so not too far off. I test drove a new 2018 M3 and it was a little harsh for me for daily driving with 20” wheels and possibility of bad weather so I ruled that out.

I also found the column mounted shifter on the C43 odd but wasn’t really that big of a deal to me. I loved the look of the ‘19 C43 and I will certainly miss that but I just like the way the BMW drives better and so does my wife. Plus the BMW has an option for heated rear seats for our kids and the C43 doesn’t. I just wished the BMW had power tilt, it’s absurd in this price range not to have it. I just feel the BMW is smoother and quieter and we already have a GTR and Durango SRT so we wanted something a little more civilized for our third car.

Y'all, the steering column mounted stalk for changing gears is exceptionally convenient and you quickly adjust. Makes parking lot maneuvers an absolute breeze. I wouldn't want to go back.

Agreed 1000%. I was skeptical at first but I've come to like the feature very much. I find myself driving our other car and keep reaching for it because it's so convenient.

C450 lease is ending soon so I test drove a few cars:

Cadillac ATS: This is the best handling car for sure from steering to suspension tuning. Amazing how it handles around corners while not overly stiff like my C450. Too bad the engine, transmission, and especially interior is horrendous.

Audi S4: Does everything well but not the best. Handling was about same as C450. Steering is kind of light for my taste. Engine has more lag than I expected. Build quality for interior is TOP NOTCH. No creaking or rattles and just solid. Exhaust could be louder. Rides more compliant than my C450.

BMW M340i: Engine is a gem. Feels just as fast as C450/C43. Interior is such a big step up too. Build quality seems ok (not as solid as Audi but better than my C450). Rides more compliant than C450. Exterior kind of boring though.

Infiniti Q50 Red Sport: Horrible car. Transmission is sluggish. Steering though heavy, doesn’t spark joy. Exterior looks ok. Interior is a dated mess. It’s missing so much tech and I wasn’t impressed by a lot of the materials/creaks. The ride was horrendously harsh - probably just as harsh as my C450 but the body movement was much more violent over bumps.

I really want to get into a MY19 C43 AMG but the harsh ride and build quality issues on my current C450 is making me hesitate.

ride quality between c450 and 19 c43 is miles different..

Agree that you should give a '19 a test drive first. I had read on here for months before I picked up my '19 C43 that the ride was intolerable. It's a little busy, but pretty close on Comfort as my '12 A4 Avant was on "Dynamic".

No denying that the C43 ride leans to sport rather than luxury, but it's not anything close to intolerable.

As mine is a wagon, there was nothing really in the market to cross shop it with.... it ticked all of the boxes for me.

Yep agreed. When I first test drove the c63 I was like “what the hell is this...a shifter on the column?!? Is it 1983?” But after test driving three other MB’s, I actually found it very convenient and loved it.

LOL... I thought I would give it a try, until I sat in a GT 63 :)

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...2aafe52524.png

How so? What’s changed with the suspension?