Decision Time: Merc or BMW - Used

[Tman*]

Since you're open to a diesel on the merc, I'd go for the BMW 320d. That engine is incredibly reliable and has great power delivery with the 8-speed auto.

If the F30 320d is out of budget also consider a e90 320d. My view is slightly subjective, as I own one, but it's an excellent all rounder and u can get 1000km on a 60L tank.

Can't beat a 320d on bang for the buck

 

[NightShift]

Thanks for the input guys. I took both for a test drive this morning and to my surprise the BMW seemed to outperform the Merc in a number of ways. It was more powerful, handled a bit better imo, and while the features were similar, the execution of the features (like PDC) was just better in the 320i than the C200. 320d wasn't available for me however, but totally happy with the 320i and got an extended 2 year plan on it. Looking forward to the BMW jokes...

 

[FiestaST]

Please please use your freaking indicators if you opt for the BM.

Don't act like you belong to this school:

https://youtu.be/XKH5Gd92k74

 

[Dan C]

Honda Jazz

 

[Foxhound5366]

Thanks for the input guys. I took both for a test drive this morning and to my surprise the BMW seemed to outperform the Merc in a number of ways. It was more powerful, handled a bit better imo, and while the features were similar, the execution of the features (like PDC) was just better in the 320i than the C200. 320d wasn't available for me however, but totally happy with the 320i and got an extended 2 year plan on it. Looking forward to the BMW jokes...

*fistbump* You know it's official when you can log into the BMW Owners' Circle website Then you're part of The Club. In a circle.

 

[SauRoNZA]

Thanks for the input guys. I took both for a test drive this morning and to my surprise the BMW seemed to outperform the Merc in a number of ways. It was more powerful, handled a bit better imo, and while the features were similar, the execution of the features (like PDC) was just better in the 320i than the C200. 320d wasn't available for me however, but totally happy with the 320i and got an extended 2 year plan on it. Looking forward to the BMW jokes...

Generally the Merce are a bit less sporty and more touring like in capacity so have the notion of sloppier handling and less power.

Congrats on the new car!

 

[Sinbad]

*fistbump* You know it's official when you can log into the BMW Owners' Circle website Then you're part of The Club. In a circle.

Jerk?

 

[bromster]

I'm looking at buying one of the following:

- 2012 BMW 320i
- 2013 Merc C200 CDI

Both are at around 90,000km with the Merc about 5k km more than the BWM. The Merc is about R15k more in price. Would get an extended motor plan with either.

What do you guys think of these in terms of problems, maintenance, comfort, drivability, insurance etc.?

My friend had a tooth break off one of the cam gears on his Merc C200 causing 70 grand's worth of damage to the motor... Only to be told that "It's a known issue"

Not entirely certain of his year model but it's close to 2013. I would definitely look into the history of any Merc with this motor. His broke just past 100'000 if I remember correctly.

 

[Sinbad]

Massive Merc fan here but I wouldn't buy a 4 cylinder Merc.
Then again I would not buy ANY BMW...

 

[spiff]

Tough choice.
I have both. 1995 e36 bmw and a 2009 c200 kompresor
Love both of them.

But I use the bmw everyday as it's just more fun.

 

[SauRoNZA]

My friend had a tooth break off one of the cam gears on his Merc C200 causing 70 grand's worth of damage to the motor... Only to be told that "It's a known issue"

Not entirely certain of his year model but it's close to 2013. I would definitely look into the history of any Merc with this motor. His broke just past 100'000 if I remember correctly.

You only ever hear of the **** that goes wrong.

Also guessing it was at the dealer?