When comparing base luxury models with an economy class, the differences lie in the details. At first glance, the two vehicles seem comparable in price and size, with subtle, yet impactful nuances distinguishing the 2018 Mercedes C 300 from your average mid-size car. In this continuation of our Why Luxury series, we are comparing the highly rated 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum with the new 2018 Mercedes Benz C 300, a bold entrance for anyone entering the luxury automotive segment.
Luxury Perks: the 2018 Mercedes C 300 vs. 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum
The MSRP for the 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum comes in at $40,340, with the average price paid between $37,034 and $39,482 per data from both Edmunds and Cargurus. The Nissan is Front Wheel Drive, 300 hp, contains a 6 cylinder engine, and with 21 and 30 MPG, city and highway fuel economy, respectively.
The base 2018 Mercedes C 300 is a 9-Speed Automatic Transmission, Rear Wheel Drive, boasting 24 MPG (city) and 33 MPG (highway). The C-Class sedan’s base MSRP begins at $40,250, and offers a similar average price paid range to the Nissan Maxima Platinum for the base model at $37,083 and $41,618 (per Cargurus and Edmunds respectively). This base model has just under 250 hp with a 4 cylinder turbocharged engine. The new C 300 boasts an athletic and sleek design based off the S-Class, making the prestige of luxury a bit more attainable for a larger market of drivers.
So what’s the difference? The vehicles are essentially comparable when only referencing these basic statistics. The C 300 is wider and has a couple more inches of passenger leg room, while the 2017 Nissan Platinum is longer and has more leg room available for the front passenger and driver. So besides badge appeal- what differentiates the new C-Class as luxury in comparison to the highly rated Nissan Maxima?
More Options for a Customizable, Luxury Experience
The 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum is the second generation of Nissan’s newest body style and the interior metal scimitar finisher claimed to be a Nissan first, as they attempted to exude a vehicle design a couple classes above Nissan Standard. The Platinum receives Alcantara seats, but if a consumer were to purchase a lower grade model of the 2017 Maxima, they would be left with standard, cloth seats. Albeit with a “sophisticated pinstripe cloth pattern.” The challenge in incorporating design items previously marked as “luxury” or “ultra-luxury” is remaining cost-effective while still adding a unique exotic flare.
The 2018 Mercedes Benz C Class interior is appropriately described as “lovely” in a recent Kelly Blue Book expert review. The array of wood and aluminum finishes and clutter free layout allow the C 300, even at a base price, to feel elegant. The additional packages, like a fragrance diffuser that integrates with the AC system, are available to further classify this model as truly upscale and customizable for the individual client. There are over 10 exterior color options available, similar to that of the Nissan Maxima, but the array of optional packages trumps the two K10 and W10 packages available to customize the Platinum edition Maxima according to Cargurus.
Optional packages to customize your 2018 C-Class include:
- LED Headlamps
- AMG Line Upgrade
- Advanced Lighting
- Leather Seating Package
- Head Up Display
- Heated and Ventilated Front Seats
- Panorama Sunroof
- Multi-Media Package
- Black leather steering wheel with Burl Walnut Inlays
- Black Nappa Leather design combos
Manufacturer Warranty and Service Experiences:
A new 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum comes with a basic 3 year/36,000 mile manufacturer warranty, a 5year, 60,000 miles drivetrain warranty, and a 3year/36,000 mile cap for roadside assistance.
In comparison, a new 2018 Mercedes-Benz C 300 comes standard with a 4 year/50,000 miles basic warranty, a 4 year/50,000 mile Drivetrain warranty, and unlimited roadside assistance. Additionally, at a Park Place Motorcars location, all clients are privy to a first-class ownership experience, including a team of service experts to maintain your vehicle’s performance capabilities, technologies, and keep the exterior looking pristine with complimentary car washes, far after the initial purchase.
Price Tag: Is it worth it?
The 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum provides a buyer with the illusion of luxury and has been recognized as a fantastic move for the Nissan brand, but the 40k plus price tag could be viewed as a bit pricey for the badge its associated with, despite its upgrade in features.
One of the obvious benefits of owning a luxury vehicle is the prestige and high-performance experience that pair with the iconic badge. When purchasing a Mercedes-Benz 2018 C-Class, it is a sign that you very well might be on your way towards S-Class heights…even if your wallet doesn’t allow for it just yet. While true one has to pay for the optional packages, it’s the ability to essentially bespoke your entry-level luxury vehicle with additional first-class materials and technology that stands out above the economy brands.