Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 250 Sport vs Lexus ES 350 F Sport FWD

Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 250 Sport
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 250 Sport
$35,800MSRP
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Lexus ES 350 F Sport FWD
Lexus ES 350 F Sport FWD
$45,600MSRP
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Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 250 Sport
$35,800MSRP
Shop Now
Lexus ES 350 F Sport FWD
$45,600MSRP
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Overview

Years produced

2012

Years produced

2019-2022

MSRP

$35,800

MSRP

$45,600

Average price

$9,139

Average price

$32,234

Listings

163

Listings

281

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

1.8L 201 hp I4

Engine

3.5L 302 hp V6

Drive Train

RWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

201 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

302 hp @ 6600 rpm

MPG City

22

MPG City

22

MPG Highway

31

MPG Highway

31
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 250 Sport
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 250 Sport
$35,800MSRP
Shop Now
Lexus ES 350 F Sport FWD
Lexus ES 350 F Sport FWD
$45,600MSRP
Shop Now
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 250 Sport
$35,800MSRP
Shop Now
Lexus ES 350 F Sport FWD
$45,600MSRP
Shop Now

Overview

Years produced
2012
2019-2022
MSRP
$35,800
$45,600
Average price
$9,139
$32,234
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews
4.7

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
1.8L 201 hp I4
3.5L 302 hp V6
Drive Train
RWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
201 hp @ 5500 rpm
302 hp @ 6600 rpm
MPG City
22
22
MPG Highway
31
31
Introduction

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 250 Sport, produced in the U.S. between 2012 and 2014, is a compact luxury sedan that attracted a considerable following during its brief production run. Known for its athletic character, the car features a Sport button that enhances its suspension firmness, throttle responsiveness, and steering heft. It was exclusively available as a sedan with rear-wheel drive, making it a preferred choice for those who relish sporty driving dynamics. The C 250 Sport contended with rivals such as the BMW 328i, Cadillac ATS, and Lexus IS250, each offering distinct takes on the compact luxury segment.

Meanwhile, the Lexus ES 350 F Sport FWD brings a different flavor to the mix. Historically, Lexus has focused more on luxury and comfort rather than raw performance. Yet, the introduction of the F Sport variants, including the ES 350 F Sport which debuted in 2019, marks a notable shift towards sportier aesthetics and nuanced driving experiences. Although the F Sport enhancements emphasize styling and interior color variations without altering engine performance, the naturally aspirated V6 engine does churn out 302 horsepower. This makes it approachable for those looking for a blend of luxury and moderate performance without reaching premium pricing like the German performance-oriented models.

Key Features
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 250 Sport
  • Rear-wheel drive standard
  • COMAND infotainment system
  • Good fuel economy
  • Solid handling
Lexus ES 350 F Sport FWD
  • 3.5-liter V6
  • Eight-speed automatic transmission
  • Long list of standard safety features
  • 19-inch wheels
  • Performance suspension
Performance

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 250 Sport's turbocharged engine generates 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, offering a balanced performance for its class. In contrast, the Lexus ES 350 F Sport FWD showcases a more potent 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. The curb weight plays a role here with the C-Class C 250 Sport weighing in at 2,428 pounds, compared to the ES 350 F Sport’s 3,649 pounds. Although these figures provide power-to-weight insights, they remain standalone statistics without inferred comparisons in handling or efficiency.

Powertrain

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 250 Sport boasts a 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that works in harmony with a seven-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. This combination is estimated to propel the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.5 seconds. In comparison, the Lexus ES 350 F Sport FWD is driven by a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, which is coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission and delivers power through front-wheel drive, with an estimated 0 to 60 mph time of 6.6 seconds.

Dimensions

In terms of size, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 250 Sport has dimensions measuring 180.8 inches in length with a wheelbase of 108.7 inches. The Lexus ES 350 F Sport FWD, by comparison, is larger at 195.9 inches in length with a 113-inch wheelbase, suggesting a more extended vehicle profile. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class measures 69.7 inches in width and stands at 56.3 inches in height, whereas the Lexus measures slightly wider at 73.4 inches and is a mere 0.6 inches taller at 56.9 inches.

Summary
In conclusion, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 250 Sport and Lexus ES 350 F Sport FWD each cater to slightly different aspects of the luxury sedan experience. The C-Class C 250 Sport focuses on delivering a sporty ride with its rear-wheel-drive setup and turbocharged engine, fitting well for those who prioritize driving dynamics. In contrast, the ES 350 F Sport FWD offers a sophisticated and feature-rich ride with a potent V6 engine, positioned as a more approachable luxury vehicle with a flair for style. Though they diverge in their engineering philosophies, both cars offer compelling choices for those seeking performance and luxury in the compact segment.
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