The Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Lexus IS are two of the best options in the luxury compact sedan market. They are affordable, powerful, and comfortable, providing drivers with satisfaction for the last twenty five years. Together, they are extremely similar in many ways, but they do have a few key differences between them that might influence your next purchase.

On the outside, the C 43 and the IS350 F Sport look like they could be made by the same company. They both have bold edges and stylish curves that immediately put them in a class above most of the other sedans on the road. In size, they differ by less than an inch in every direction. For this reason, they also share much of the same interior dimensions, but the C-Class has some surprises in this area. For example, despite their identical size, the C-Class has a maximum trunk capacity of 12.6 cubic feet, and the Lexus only has 10.8 cubic feet of available space. This gives the C-Class an advantage, but the real winner doesn't reveal itself until you take a look under the hood.

Mercedes-Benz AMG® C 43 Performance Specifications

The Lexus is fun to drive and it has a dynamic engine sound, but its value diminishes after you get behind the wheel of the C 43. Under the bonnet, it hides a 3.0L V6 biturbo with 362 horsepower, almost 60 more horsepower than the Lexus. This impressive power output comes from the biturbo setup, enhanced by AMG®, that makes the C-Class both more powerful and more efficient at the same time, all with less displacement, saving space and weight.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with the Lexus IS. It is comfortable, fun to drive, and beyond safe. But when you put it up against the C-Class, it is difficult to be a fan. The C-Class may cost roughly five thousand dollars more than the Lexus, but it comes with thirty thousand dollars in additional features. What's more, the C-Class has two trims above the C 43, meaning drivers can have as much power as they want. For Lexus, the IS350 F Sport is the top of the line. If you have any questions about the 2017 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, come to Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale today for a test drive.