I have both a 2008 C300 and an A4 2.0T. Not to get anyone upset, but I enjoy the C300 more. Of course the manual transmission may have a lot to do with that... I find the Audi to accomodate rear passengers better and seems to generally be more stylish (at least inside) but I love the "brick shithouse" feel of everything about the Benz.
Anyhow, they are both great cars and as total packages, a step or two ahead of BMW.

 

Poppy,

I agree that they're definitely a step ahead of the BMW.

Looked at a C class, can you confirm that the media system will not sync the phone book? The salesman told me you have to enter phone number manually!?!

 

The iphone gives the C Class trouble. There are work arounds(I have an iphone) but it is a pain in the butt. With other phones, the phone book downloads and syncs without issue...from what I have read on the MB forums andyhow. This is one place where the Audi is a step ahead.

 

Yes, I have iPhone as well. Was slightly put off by the thought of manually entering my contacts.

 

My friend recently tested the C350. He told me that the new c class looks alot better and avantgarde then the previous one. It's also more sporty yet also retaining the ride comfort that Mercedes is famous for. At any rate, it helps to shed some of the "geezer" image of Benz. However, it still lags behind the E90 3 series in handling and performance. A4 does have the benefit of combining the sportiness of the 3 series and the comfort of the C class. Hmmmm, I think it comes down to emphasis. I will go for the 3 series if I want a more raw sporty sedan notwithstanding the harsher ride from the run-flat tires. If I want a comfortable ride but also some sportiness, I will go for the C Class. I will go for the A4 if I want AWD quattro and the sportiness and comfort that goes with it. So which to choose, very tough choice again.

 

They all have thier high and low points and the spec sheets are really too close to call. What you really have to do is go test drive all three in the same day and find which one really "speaks" to you.

 

i havent had the chance to drive the B8's, but i did get to test drive a new c300. i must say the ride and performance are very nice, but less engaging than the audis i have driven.

also, for the kind of coin you'll spend on the MB, the interior quality and appearance do leave a bit to be desired. the dash layout and the feel of the new A4 interior is much superior.

however with the price of the Benz, you do get better resale value.

i've never been too impressed by the 3 series. i find them over priced and a bit "busy" inside.

all in all, great cars to choose from. good luck in your decision!

 

i havent had the chance to drive the B8's, but i did get to test drive a new c300. i must say the ride and performance are very nice, but less engaging than the audis i have driven.

also, for the kind of coin you'll spend on the MB, the interior quality and appearance do leave a bit to be desired. the dash layout and the feel of the new A4 interior is much superior.

however with the price of the Benz, you do get better resale value.

i've never been too impressed by the 3 series. i find them over priced and a bit "busy" inside.

all in all, great cars to choose from. good luck in your decision!

 

It turns out my significant other is also looking for a new car after her current jetta is finally breaking down after 10+ years. After doing some calculations with our budget, we came to the conclusion that both of us can afford to get new cars. She pays out of her own pocket (as in from her salary) and I pay out of my own. So problem solved. She will get a E90 335i and I will get a A4 quattro. I'm really lucky to have the opportunity to drive both cars now. I guess this is a benefit from all those years grinding through 9 to 5 and saving for a rainy day has finally pay off.

 

Don't forget to post your personal opinions on both when you test drive and then after you purchase... I'm reconsidering BMW after my current not so wonderful B8 A4 experience, so I'd love to know your thoughts. I'm convinced mine is a part of a bad batch.