When it was launched, the C43 proved that high power figures aren’t everything. Till its debut, C-class AMGs have always been V8-powered, noisy and rear-wheel drive. However, then the lower ‘43’ was introduced and it had all-wheel drive and came with considerably less power. Audi, on the other hand, has updated its S5 Sportback and made it considerably sharper looking and roomy, in an effort to take on the Mercedes. Which of the two is the nicer everyday performance car? We find out.
Under the Hood
Even though they may not look like it, both cars are similar in many ways. They both have 3-litre V6 petrol engines, automatic transmissions and all-wheel drive. Both cars are also completely imported, and this makes them unchanged from their international trims. This also means that the cars haven’t been tuned for the Indian market, and the suspension and performance remain unchanged.
Interestingly, both models can be had in diesel avatars as well and the sporty visual bits that help differentiate them get lesser. The Audi has a black grille instead of chrome finish, the OVRMs are silver and the alloy wheels have a different styling. The AMG, on the other hand, does a better job of differentiating itself from the diesel model. It has a different grille, new bumper design, redesigned alloys and it is considerably more equipped than the standard C-class. To us, the Audi looks nicer with its subtle styling; however, the Mercedes being more common sight could be reason for this.
On the Inside
The S5 is not very different from the A5 on the inside, except for the carbon-fibre trim and red interior. However, the AMG 43 feels like a large step up from the standard model, it has leather, wood and a thick steering wheel. Both, the Audi and the Mercedes get bucket seats with good levels of bolstering, many would prefer the more spacious seats of the C 43 here. As far as practicality is concerned, both cars have 480-litre boots, but the Audi’s lift back opening results in more usable space. Another benefit of the Audi is that its spare wheel sits underneath while the Mercedes’s sits inside, taking up some of the space.
The rear seats of these cars are significant as well, considering they are what help differentiate these sports sedans from all-out sportscars. The Audi’s sloping ‘Sportback’ roof sacrifices considerable amounts of headroom at the back, taller individuals will feel a bit cramped back there. This, however, is not the case in the C-class. The Mercedes is shaped like a regular sedan and feels way more roomy and comfortable. The only place the C-class is lacking in is in terms of thigh support on the rear seats.
How does it Perform?
The AMG makes 367hp and 520Nm while the Audi makes 354hp and 500Nm. Handling transmission duties are an eight-speed unit in the Audi and a nine-speed unit in the Mercedes. 0-100kph takes 4.77 seconds in the AMG, while it takes 5.01 seconds in the S5. Even though these figures sound very similar, the cars feel different in the way the drive. For example, both V6 motors have a good exhaust note but the one in the AMG is louder and nicer. However, the Mercedes’ driving feel is affected by its gearbox, it is not consistent and can shifts randomly when one least expects it. Audi’s transmission, however, is way smoother and can adapt to different driving scenarios instantly.
How does it Drive?
The biggest advantage the Mercedes has over the Audi is the adjustable dampers it is equipped with. It can be had in the Audi as an option but was missing on the car we tested. These dampers give you the additional adjustment of the suspension on the car; one can shift from comfort to Sport instantly. Furthermore, this works separately from the engine mode settings the car is equipped with; this makes the Mercedes extremely customisable. Even though the Audi doesn’t have adjustable dampers, it still is comfortable. However, when compared to the ride on the AMG, it is slightly firmer. Overall, the ride on the Audi is better and more compliant while also being more stable at higher speeds.
Steering feel on both cars isn’t perfect. But, the Audi’s is the best we have come across compared to the manufacturer’s other offerings. It feels easy at low speeds while getting heavy at higher speeds. The AMG’s steering however can feel a bit too light but is more responsive. Being all-wheel-drive cars, the grip on both are extremely high but the Audi somehow inspires more confidence.
Which One Should I Buy?
The cars are very closely matched in terms of equipment and performance. Both cars also have their strengths and weaknesses. In terms of pricing, the Audi is cheaper than the Mercedes by around ₹4 lakh. However, when optioned-up, the Audi’s price is on par with the Mercedes.
The Mercedes is the more comfortable option. But the Audi is the car that wins this rivalry by a small margin. It is up-to-date in terms of tech and delivers a better driving experience. The gearbox on the Audi is also considerably better, making the Audi a better all-round package.
