BMW 4 Series v Mercedes-Benz C-Class Convertible 2017 Comparison

BMW 440i M Sport Convertible v Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Cabriolet
Comparison Test

Established player versus newcomer
In our literal red corner is the BMW 440i Convertible, this year’s replacement for the outgoing 435i Convertible. Updated with more power, more torque and more toys, BMW has shaved $10,100 off the price clearly readying itself for the arrival of the first ever Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet range.

The new range is represented in this comparison by the Mercedes-AMG C 43 variant, the entry-level performance model which sits beneath the range-topping C 63 S Cabriolet and above the C 200 and C 300 Cabriolets.

Both our contenders are similarly-priced. Minus any options, the straight-six BMW is priced at $117,900 while the twin-turbo V6 will set you back $119,900.

The benchmark for mid-size prestige convertibles, BMW has been an established player since it chopped the top off of its first 3 Series.

While Mercedes-Benz has had a long history in convertible roadsters and sportscars, it’s never offered a full drop-top line-up bearing the C-Class name before, previously offering us the E-Class styled CLK and C-Class chassis-based E-Class.

Why the change? Mercedes-Benz clearly hopes to boost sales of its best-selling passenger car by rounding out a full offering of bodystyles.

Who will they appeal to?
Each car is likely to appeal to a similar buyer demographic and it’s probably quite broad. Think sports-oriented empty nesters, cashed up couples or even family buyers who already have an SUV or wagon as their main conveyance.

Each car is a full four seater but there’s probably more consideration given to rear seat passengers in the BMW, where it’s easier to access the rear seats thanks to a lower belt-line and a front seat which can be pulled further forward.

Practicality is on the side of the C 43 which boasts considerably larger boot space with the soft roof folded: 260 versus the hard-top 440i’s 200 litres. That soft-top may not be quite as secure for on-road parkers but it does have a distinct advantage in that it doesn’t require as much room to be stowed.

Standard features on each car are as you might expect at the price range, but it’s refreshing that many technology extras which are usually options are included for your price.

Each features active cruise control with stop and go, air collar (although this is deleted with the addition of the optional performance seats in the Mercedes-AMG), up-spec stereo systems, full leather upholstery with heated seats in the front, adaptive suspension and steering options, head-up display and infotainment including navigation and digital radio.

The 440i on test was equipped with two additional options – M Sport brakes at $1400 and metallic paintwork for $1840. The C 43 added the $4990 performance ergonomic pack featuring sports front seat and AMG upholstery, black Nappa leather steering wheel and a grin-inducing sports exhaust.

Each vehicle is subject to luxury car tax which is included in the above pricing while warranty remains the same for each manufacturer at 36 months/ unlimited kilometres. Servicing the Mercedes-AMG will see you visiting your mechanic every 20,000km or 12 months while the BMW offers conditioned-based servicing which will likely vary on usage (but will still see you at the shop every year).

The BMW’s powertrain combines a 3.0-litre turbo-petrol straight-six engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission, generating 240kW and 450Nm. The engine is responsive and delivers plenty of power but is eclipsed by the bi-turbo V6 petrol engine under the bonnet of the C 43. That motor, shared with the newly launched C 43 Coupe is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission to create 270kW and 520Nm.

The BMW 440i Convertible is classically ‘BMW’ in driver feel. Its rear-drive character and chassis set up ensure this drop-top is lithe and engaging, albeit with the odd ‘encouraging’ twitch from the rear-end.

Even more compelling however is the Mercedes-AMG’s all-wheel drive which delivers the same great feel behind the wheel, but with additional confidence for the driver. Acceleration from the bi-turbo is exhilarating and the aural sensation from the optional sports exhaust compels you to take the long route home.

Cabin finish in each vehicle is excellent and certainly gives the correct impression of a prestige car. With all those standard features, each car also feels like it is packed with detail and tech so neither feels underdone.

The BMW’s hard-top is a technical marvel but its impact on boot space and accessibility makes it a lot less usable than the boot in the Mercedes-AMG. The C 43’s heavier doors and smaller rear aperture do make it a little harder to get into the second-row for rear-seat passengers but once in, there’s plenty of leg and headroom.

Which wins, and why?
If you were only ever to have driven the BMW 440i Convertible then you would not be disappointed. It’s a great-handling mid-size performer that is fun to drive yet it is outdone on pretty much every front by the Mercedes-AMG C 43 Cabriolet.

The C 43 is sharp, ballsy and a little bit addictive but don’t even think about buying it without the sports exhaust.

For more information on choosing a convertible car, check out our comprehensive guide.

Price: $117,900 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 240kW/450Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Fuel: 7.2L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 167g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: TBA

2016 Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Convertible pricing and specifications:
Price: $119,900 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 3.0-litre six-cylinder twin-turbo-petrol
Output: 270kW/520Nm
Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
Fuel: 8.5L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 196g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: TBA