2023 C 43 Order Guide
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 759
Likes: 258
From: Boston
AMG
I am fine sharing some details about the deal I got as well. I got $799 discount off MSRP (I think others should be able to do better). My trade in (lease turn in) had ~$6,500 of equity in it. I did not get charged an acquisition fee of $1,095.00 (more savings). I added prepaid maintenance for 3 years at $1,800 dollars.
The car is expensive. I got a decent deal. Later this year will probably be a better time to pick up some left over stock of MY23's. Invoice is about $4,000 less than MSRP - so there's room to negotiate.
I leased, the maintenance is residualized and I pocketed the equity after starts cost which were about $2,400 including first month. Residual was 61% for 36k/3yrs and MF was .003 (disgusting).
The car is expensive. I got a decent deal. Later this year will probably be a better time to pick up some left over stock of MY23's. Invoice is about $4,000 less than MSRP - so there's room to negotiate.
I leased, the maintenance is residualized and I pocketed the equity after starts cost which were about $2,400 including first month. Residual was 61% for 36k/3yrs and MF was .003 (disgusting).
I did bring it up when sitting down with my SA. He wasn't budging and I felt I made up for it in other ways with less out of pocket upfront.
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 365
Likes: 46
2020 C43, 2008 E350
I am fine sharing some details about the deal I got as well. I got $799 discount off MSRP (I think others should be able to do better). My trade in (lease turn in) had ~$6,500 of equity in it. I did not get charged an acquisition fee of $1,095.00 (more savings). I added prepaid maintenance for 3 years at $1,800 dollars.
The car is expensive. I got a decent deal. Later this year will probably be a better time to pick up some left over stock of MY23's. Invoice is about $4,000 less than MSRP - so there's room to negotiate.
I leased, the maintenance is residualized and I pocketed the equity after starts cost which were about $2,400 including first month. Residual was 61% for 36k/3yrs and MF was .003 (disgusting).
The car is expensive. I got a decent deal. Later this year will probably be a better time to pick up some left over stock of MY23's. Invoice is about $4,000 less than MSRP - so there's room to negotiate.
I leased, the maintenance is residualized and I pocketed the equity after starts cost which were about $2,400 including first month. Residual was 61% for 36k/3yrs and MF was .003 (disgusting).
Member
Joined: Feb 2022
Posts: 127
Likes: 39
From: Toronto, Canada
Alfa Romeo Giulia QV, VW Taos
So for all you lucky folk who have had their cars for a week or more by now - I want to know: Are you happy with this car? There's all the tangible factors that have been discussed above, but how does the car MAKE YOU FEEL? I'm coming from the VAG universe, where my favorite car up until this point is the Golf R. Every day when I walk out my front door, I see the car and it made me smile. That's all I want. I understand this is a different beast. It's ultimately going to cost me twice as much (up here in Canada), and I'm giving up a bit off the hop in a straight line. All of that really is just numbers on paper for me. Is this car going to make me smile? Does it make you smile?
I'd also want to hear some comparisons to the CLA45 for anyone who has driven both.
Thanks!
I'd also want to hear some comparisons to the CLA45 for anyone who has driven both.
Thanks!
Last edited by flocons; Apr 20, 2023 at 12:01 AM.
Member
Joined: Jul 2022
Posts: 87
Likes: 20
CLA250
So for all you lucky folk who have had their cars for a week or more by now - I want to know: Are you happy with this car? There's all the tangible factors that have been discussed above, but how does the car MAKE YOU FEEL? I'm coming from the VAG universe, where my favorite car up until this point is the Golf R. Every day when I walk out my front door, I see the car and it made me smile. That's all I want. I understand this is a different beast. It's ultimately going to cost me twice as much (up here in Canada), and I'm giving up a bit off the hop in a straight line. All of that really is just numbers on paper for me. Is this car going to make me smile? Does it make you smile?
I'd also want to hear some comparisons to the CLA45 for anyone who has driven both.
Thanks!
I'd also want to hear some comparisons to the CLA45 for anyone who has driven both.
Thanks!
.It's a head turner. Mine is starling so it definitely stands out. I get compliments all the time. A random guy yesterday told me how sexy it looks lol.
I've only done a little over 400 miles so I haven't driven it hard yet but I can't wait to hear and feel what it's like in S+
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2020
Posts: 2,838
Likes: 1,601
From: Florida
I love the car. It looks so good in person. Pictures don't do it justice. It feels really premium and I can't wait to drive it every day .
It's a head turner. Mine is starling so it definitely stands out. I get compliments all the time. A random guy yesterday told me how sexy it looks lol.
I've only done a little over 400 miles so I haven't driven it hard yet but I can't wait to hear and feel what it's like in S+
.It's a head turner. Mine is starling so it definitely stands out. I get compliments all the time. A random guy yesterday told me how sexy it looks lol.
I've only done a little over 400 miles so I haven't driven it hard yet but I can't wait to hear and feel what it's like in S+
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2019
Posts: 1,513
Likes: 508
From: Westchester, NY
2014 Mercedes E350 4matic Wagon, 2018 Fiat 124 Spyder Lusso manual, 2005 Acura TSX manual
https://express.mbwhiteplains.com/ex...requency=month
A dealer near me has a non night package C43 with some nice equipmemnt, but correct me if I'm wrong, does it not appear this car has the full black grill from the night package II?
A dealer near me has a non night package C43 with some nice equipmemnt, but correct me if I'm wrong, does it not appear this car has the full black grill from the night package II?
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2022
Posts: 30
Likes: 4
From: FL
2023 EQE 500, 2022 CLA 45
So for all you lucky folk who have had their cars for a week or more by now - I want to know: Are you happy with this car? There's all the tangible factors that have been discussed above, but how does the car MAKE YOU FEEL? I'm coming from the VAG universe, where my favorite car up until this point is the Golf R. Every day when I walk out my front door, I see the car and it made me smile. That's all I want. I understand this is a different beast. It's ultimately going to cost me twice as much (up here in Canada), and I'm giving up a bit off the hop in a straight line. All of that really is just numbers on paper for me. Is this car going to make me smile? Does it make you smile?
I'd also want to hear some comparisons to the CLA45 for anyone who has driven both.
Thanks!
I'd also want to hear some comparisons to the CLA45 for anyone who has driven both.
Thanks!
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 759
Likes: 258
From: Boston
AMG
I'd also be very interested in impressions from those that have driven both the CLA 45 and the C43. I'm currently in a '22 CLA 45 and I love it, but getting in and out is a bit difficult when you're 6'4". Once you're in, there's plenty of room, but I'm thinking about moving to a C43 when my lease is up in August for some easier ingress/egress (not getting any younger). Same engine, but in a larger car has me worried about what I might be giving up in quickness/handling. Any insight would be much appreciated. Thanks!
However, according to MB, yours is faster 0-60. I have no explanation yet, weight would not account for it.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 1,564
Likes: 455
From: Scottsdale AZ
2015 CLS 550 2015 ML 400 Previous 2020 GLB 250 2019 A 220 2005 ML 350 1989 300 E 2001 SL 500
I'd also be very interested in impressions from those that have driven both the CLA 45 and the C43. I'm currently in a '22 CLA 45 and I love it, but getting in and out is a bit difficult when you're 6'4". Once you're in, there's plenty of room, but I'm thinking about moving to a C43 when my lease is up in August for some easier ingress/egress (not getting any younger). Same engine, but in a larger car has me worried about what I might be giving up in quickness/handling. Any insight would be much appreciated. Thanks!
I'd also be very interested in impressions from those that have driven both the CLA 45 and the C43. I'm currently in a '22 CLA 45 and I love it, but getting in and out is a bit difficult when you're 6'4". Once you're in, there's plenty of room, but I'm thinking about moving to a C43 when my lease is up in August for some easier ingress/egress (not getting any younger). Same engine, but in a larger car has me worried about what I might be giving up in quickness/handling. Any insight would be much appreciated. Thanks!
It isn't going to feel as agile as the CLA45 but it makes up for that in other ways. Much more refined and planted feeling.
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2022
Posts: 30
Likes: 4
From: FL
2023 EQE 500, 2022 CLA 45
Thanks for the pics. That's exactly the color I would want with the night package. I just wish there was an option for black wheels. I really like the wheels I have on my CLA 45. Other than that, perfect. 😁👍
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2022
Posts: 30
Likes: 4
From: FL
2023 EQE 500, 2022 CLA 45
That was my expectation. While I don't want to give up performance, the CLA45 is not quiet by any means. I would actually appreciate a little more refinement (until I switch to S or S+). Exactly why I've been looking at the C43. Thanks!
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2022
Posts: 30
Likes: 4
From: FL
2023 EQE 500, 2022 CLA 45
I'm 6'4 and while the headroom and legroom is ample compared to the CLA it's not that easy to get in and out of with the performance seats. It's probably easier with the regular seats but I don't have much seat time in one. I have really bad memories getting in and out of the CLA banging my knee on the console - that will not happen in the C43.
It isn't going to feel as agile as the CLA45 but it makes up for that in other ways. Much more refined and planted feeling.
It isn't going to feel as agile as the CLA45 but it makes up for that in other ways. Much more refined and planted feeling.
Please tell me more about the performance seats. My CLA45 has the standard seats in leather (I didn't have a choice). I'm not planning any autocross or track time with my next car so I'm wondering if it's worth the money to upgrade the seats. I get that they are more supportive, but are the performance seats more comfortable overall (think long drives). Also, what's the main differences between the two levels of performance seats? It's pretty much impossible to go to a dealer and try out the seats because of the low stock on AMG vehicles.
Thanks, Uncle D
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2022
Posts: 30
Likes: 4
From: FL
2023 EQE 500, 2022 CLA 45
The C43 has the same M139 engine, but it's tuned to 402 with the extra 13 coming from the hybrid assist.
The M139L that's in the 45S puts out 417 hp and that's coming to the US for the 2024 refresh of the CLA. Would have loved to see the M139L with hybrid assist in the C43 to bump the hp up to 430. Perhaps that will come later.
I was thinking about getting a CLA 45S when they come out next year, but recently I've been looking at the C43 for the extra room and refinement (and I wouldn't have to wait until next year to get one).
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2022
Posts: 30
Likes: 4
From: FL
2023 EQE 500, 2022 CLA 45
https://express.mbwhiteplains.com/ex...requency=month
A dealer near me has a non night package C43 with some nice equipmemnt, but correct me if I'm wrong, does it not appear this car has the full black grill from the night package II?
A dealer near me has a non night package C43 with some nice equipmemnt, but correct me if I'm wrong, does it not appear this car has the full black grill from the night package II?
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 365
Likes: 46
2020 C43, 2008 E350
I'd also be very interested in impressions from those that have driven both the CLA 45 and the C43. I'm currently in a '22 CLA 45 and I love it, but getting in and out is a bit difficult when you're 6'4". Once you're in, there's plenty of room, but I'm thinking about moving to a C43 when my lease is up in August for some easier ingress/egress (not getting any younger). Same engine, but in a larger car has me worried about what I might be giving up in quickness/handling. Any insight would be much appreciated. Thanks!
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 65
Likes: 20
From: SoCal
2022 Polestar 2
So for all you lucky folk who have had their cars for a week or more by now - I want to know: Are you happy with this car? There's all the tangible factors that have been discussed above, but how does the car MAKE YOU FEEL? I'm coming from the VAG universe, where my favorite car up until this point is the Golf R. Every day when I walk out my front door, I see the car and it made me smile. That's all I want. I understand this is a different beast. It's ultimately going to cost me twice as much (up here in Canada), and I'm giving up a bit off the hop in a straight line. All of that really is just numbers on paper for me. Is this car going to make me smile? Does it make you smile?
I'd also want to hear some comparisons to the CLA45 for anyone who has driven both.
Thanks!
I'd also want to hear some comparisons to the CLA45 for anyone who has driven both.
Thanks!
PROS
- Interior amenities and quality. It feels like it's $10-15k more expensive than it is and outclasses every other car in it's segment.
- AMG-ness. It's a real AMG through and through this time and doesn't feel like the AMG-lite the W205 was. You feel special in it.
- Handling. Best in its class and rear axle steering was a really nice addition this generation. You feel it but it also doesn't feel "on rails"
- Transmission. This is the most critical issue for me and it's unacceptable for MB to release such a clunky transmission for this price. The 9-speed MCT is awful and it being wet clutch and not a torque converter makes its very jarring and jerky at low to mid speeds. I've tried driving in all modes, but it's simply unpleasant to drive in local conditions. While I'm sure there is SW coming to support mapping, I don't think MB should have released a car that drives almost where it feels unfinished. I'm even considering pursuing CA lemon law as the car shouldn't behave the way it does when I'm driving in these low-to-moderate speeds. At hwy speed it's great but it feels Jekyll and Hyde. This is still a mid-range AMG C-Class, not a Black Series, and should feel smoother.
- Creaks and Hard Plastics in the interior.
- "T" on the "Turbo" badges are loosely glued onto the car meaning they may spray off during a car wash.
- Gas mileage. For all the electrified tech in it, it's pretty subpar versus an M340i or S4. I'm barely getting 23.
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 759
Likes: 258
From: Boston
AMG
I don't want to be the "debbie downer" in the group but I'm semi-disappointed in the C43 and here's why. Let's start with pros...
PROS
PROS
- Interior amenities and quality. It feels like it's $10-15k more expensive than it is and outclasses every other car in it's segment.
- AMG-ness. It's a real AMG through and through this time and doesn't feel like the AMG-lite the W205 was. You feel special in it.
- Handling. Best in its class and rear axle steering was a really nice addition this generation. You feel it but it also doesn't feel "on rails"
- Transmission. This is the most critical issue for me and it's unacceptable for MB to release such a clunky transmission for this price. The 9-speed MCT is awful and it being wet clutch and not a torque converter makes its very jarring and jerky at low to mid speeds. I've tried driving in all modes, but it's simply unpleasant to drive in local conditions. While I'm sure there is SW coming to support mapping, I don't think MB should have released a car that drives almost where it feels unfinished. I'm even considering pursuing CA lemon law as the car shouldn't behave the way it does when I'm driving in these low-to-moderate speeds. At hwy speed it's great but it feels Jekyll and Hyde. This is still a mid-range AMG C-Class, not a Black Series, and should feel smoother.
- Creaks and Hard Plastics in the interior.
- "T" on the "Turbo" badges are loosely glued onto the car meaning they may spray off during a car wash.
- Gas mileage. For all the electrified tech in it, it's pretty subpar versus an M340i or S4. I'm barely getting 23.
Did you check with the dealer to see if you have the latest SW? Also, see if you can drive another one to compare.
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 65
Likes: 20
From: SoCal
2022 Polestar 2
So for all you lucky folk who have had their cars for a week or more by now - I want to know: Are you happy with this car? There's all the tangible factors that have been discussed above, but how does the car MAKE YOU FEEL? I'm coming from the VAG universe, where my favorite car up until this point is the Golf R. Every day when I walk out my front door, I see the car and it made me smile. That's all I want. I understand this is a different beast. It's ultimately going to cost me twice as much (up here in Canada), and I'm giving up a bit off the hop in a straight line. All of that really is just numbers on paper for me. Is this car going to make me smile? Does it make you smile?
I'd also want to hear some comparisons to the CLA45 for anyone who has driven both.
Thanks!
I'd also want to hear some comparisons to the CLA45 for anyone who has driven both.
Thanks!
I'm rather cut my losses.
