2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 vs 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line
3 mpg better and 22 more lb-ft torque vs AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $150 price gap, 255 vs 261 hp, 29 vs 26 MPG.
The C-Class C 300 leads on 3 MPG better, 22 more lb-ft torque. The A4 Premium Plus S line leads on AWD. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 | 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $48,450 | $48,600 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo | 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo |
| Horsepower | 255 hp | 261 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 273 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 35 | 32 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.4 gal | 15.3 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,000/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,825 lbs | 3,682 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.8" | 111.0" |
| Length | 187.0" | 187.5" |
| Width | 74.4" | 72.7" |
| Height | 56.6" | 56.2" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 4yr/50k | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k | 4yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 and 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line?
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 starts at $48,450, $150 less than the 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line at $48,600. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300?
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 is the stronger pick when you want to keep $150 in your pocket and the 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $167/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line?
The 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 or 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line?
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 rates 29 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 or 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line?
The 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line produces 261 hp, 6 more than the 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 at 255 hp. The 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 also leads in torque at 295 lb-ft vs 273 lb-ft. Drivetrains differ too: RWD on the 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300, AWD on the 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line.
Is the 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 bigger than the 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line?
The 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line is 0.5″ longer at 187.5″ vs 187.0″. The 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 has a 1.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 and 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line comes with AWD, while the 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 uses RWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain.
Explore more: Mercedes-Benz trims, Mercedes-Benz C-Class trims, Audi trims, Audi A4 trims
How the C-Class and A4 Stack Up
Two compact cars, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 starts at $48,450; the 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line at $48,600. The $150 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
Powertrain: C-Class vs A4
Both run the same 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo engine. The 6 hp difference (261 vs 255) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line comes with AWD; the 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 uses RWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 saves roughly $167/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $835. The 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 when you want to keep $150 in your pocket and the 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Audi A4 Premium Plus S line when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Mercedes-Benz or Audi or any dealership.