BMW 316i Sport (A) vs Mercedes-Benz C180 1.6 (A) vs Volvo S60 T4 (A)
01 Mar 2013|86,003 views
Automakers will not be considered mainstream if they haven't had a contender in this segment. And like diet staples, these cars have filled much of the local's appetite for sensible motoring.
Yes, we are on the topic of compact sedans.
These booted four-door commutes have been around for as long as we can remember, and arguably, after being through many generations, have been thoroughly honed.
They pack less of the chivalry which their raised SUV cousins can be boastful of. Being 'Bread & Butter' also gives you an idea that these cars aren't the most inspiring, to say the least - else we would have termed them Caviar and Wine.
On the hindsight, necessity being the mother of all inventions, one simply cannot negate the purpose of these cars.
Exterior
Choosing between the trio can be as hard as picking your dining location - each gives a different set of character/taste that will score a high with its distinct taste bud.
The C180 which has been around for the longest time gets a healthy dose of modern decorations - such as daytime running lights - to stay in tune with the rest of the pack. And like what the three-pointed star was known to be, the C-Class feels clinical and sombre - less of the shout-out you get from the bimmer.
Yes, we are on the topic of compact sedans.
These booted four-door commutes have been around for as long as we can remember, and arguably, after being through many generations, have been thoroughly honed.
They pack less of the chivalry which their raised SUV cousins can be boastful of. Being 'Bread & Butter' also gives you an idea that these cars aren't the most inspiring, to say the least - else we would have termed them Caviar and Wine.
On the hindsight, necessity being the mother of all inventions, one simply cannot negate the purpose of these cars.
Exterior
Choosing between the trio can be as hard as picking your dining location - each gives a different set of character/taste that will score a high with its distinct taste bud.
The C180 which has been around for the longest time gets a healthy dose of modern decorations - such as daytime running lights - to stay in tune with the rest of the pack. And like what the three-pointed star was known to be, the C-Class feels clinical and sombre - less of the shout-out you get from the bimmer.
If the C-Class has been fed with penicillin, the 316i must have been doping - especially when kitted with this M Sport package. Not that it needed one though - we reckon the razor sharp lines on the new facet would have given it a sporty enough look.
The Swede, on the other hand, is potently quiet - you may not have noticed it among the crowd. But when it starts getting your attention, you will find an ensemble of sheet metals nicely pieced together. Angular air inlets, matt silver inlays/diffuser on the underbody - all these small details give the car a dynamic and complexed, yet subtle look.
Interior
More often than not, it is the most eye-catching car that gets the mention first. In this case, the 316i's interior sets itself apart with its contrasting colours. The red interior may raise a few brows, but does its bit to instil a better sense of occasion - proving that daily commutes need not be dull and dreary.
Like its stablemates, the 316i is also the most driver-centric. The centre console is slanted towards the driver, making it easy to reach out to the intuitive buttons and controls. The low seating position also makes the 3er more sporty and engaging.
While the interior of the 3er feels passionate, the C-Class charms with its attention to details. Seams are filled with contrasting stitching while display panels sport aluminium surrounds - an exquisite feel that makes it one of the best in the business.
Venturing inside the C-Class also reveals another of its plus side - the large areas of glass gives the greenhouse a better sense of space. On the downside, the C-Class' interior feels the least bolstered of the trio. The door cushions feel more thinly spread out. And not to mention, the mixture of electronic and manual seat adjusting takes some time to get accustomed to.
More often than not, it is the most eye-catching car that gets the mention first. In this case, the 316i's interior sets itself apart with its contrasting colours. The red interior may raise a few brows, but does its bit to instil a better sense of occasion - proving that daily commutes need not be dull and dreary.
Like its stablemates, the 316i is also the most driver-centric. The centre console is slanted towards the driver, making it easy to reach out to the intuitive buttons and controls. The low seating position also makes the 3er more sporty and engaging.
While the interior of the 3er feels passionate, the C-Class charms with its attention to details. Seams are filled with contrasting stitching while display panels sport aluminium surrounds - an exquisite feel that makes it one of the best in the business.
Venturing inside the C-Class also reveals another of its plus side - the large areas of glass gives the greenhouse a better sense of space. On the downside, the C-Class' interior feels the least bolstered of the trio. The door cushions feel more thinly spread out. And not to mention, the mixture of electronic and manual seat adjusting takes some time to get accustomed to.
On the other hand, insulation is where the Volvo shines, feeling sturdy and well built. The Swedes are among the best when it comes to car seats, providing a right blend of comfort and support - and the S60 is no exception.
Space wise, all three sedans will fit three adults at the rear, with good knee and head room. The S60 is the most comfortable for two, but lacks the shoulder room for three abreast, whereas the 3er and C-Class will fit a third adult with greater ease.
The S60's smaller dimensions also mean that it shies in comparison when it comes to boot space. While the C-Class packs 475 litres and the 3 Series a notch up at 480 litres, the Volvo only gets 380 litres of luggage lugging space.
Space wise, all three sedans will fit three adults at the rear, with good knee and head room. The S60 is the most comfortable for two, but lacks the shoulder room for three abreast, whereas the 3er and C-Class will fit a third adult with greater ease.
The S60's smaller dimensions also mean that it shies in comparison when it comes to boot space. While the C-Class packs 475 litres and the 3 Series a notch up at 480 litres, the Volvo only gets 380 litres of luggage lugging space.
The Drive
While Volvos are less associated with performance, it is the S60 that has the sprightliest performance of the lot. While all three engines are similar in capacity, the T4 churns out 180 horses, putting the 156bhp and 136bhp from the C180 and 316i respectively to shy.
The S60 pulls off more eagerly than the rest at the lights. This six-speeder is tasked to dispatch power to the wheels and while it is not the creamiest of the trio, it is decisively smooth.
That said, the 316i's eight-speed gearbox - being the most intuitive - earns top spot. Not to mention having the extra ratios to work with means a more responsive pickup at any speeds.
Despite having the advantage on paper, the Merc, on the other hand, doesn't feel as quick as its figures suggest. It clocks 8.5 seconds century sprint compared to 9 seconds on the S60 and 9.2 seconds on the 316i.
Driven with a lighter right foot, however, the C-Class charms with a well sorted ride and comfort - one aspect which the S60 is inferior in with its firmer, tauter suspension.
While Volvos are less associated with performance, it is the S60 that has the sprightliest performance of the lot. While all three engines are similar in capacity, the T4 churns out 180 horses, putting the 156bhp and 136bhp from the C180 and 316i respectively to shy.
The S60 pulls off more eagerly than the rest at the lights. This six-speeder is tasked to dispatch power to the wheels and while it is not the creamiest of the trio, it is decisively smooth.
That said, the 316i's eight-speed gearbox - being the most intuitive - earns top spot. Not to mention having the extra ratios to work with means a more responsive pickup at any speeds.
Despite having the advantage on paper, the Merc, on the other hand, doesn't feel as quick as its figures suggest. It clocks 8.5 seconds century sprint compared to 9 seconds on the S60 and 9.2 seconds on the 316i.
Driven with a lighter right foot, however, the C-Class charms with a well sorted ride and comfort - one aspect which the S60 is inferior in with its firmer, tauter suspension.
The 316i, with the least power output, does feel exhaustive when stretched. Still, the lack of outright performance does not dull its driving experience at all. Instead, the sublime handling makes it the most engaging to drive.
Conclusion
The 316i's brilliance may be hampered by the lack of outright pace, but it makes up for it with its practicality. The Bimmer will garner a $10,000 CEVS rebate, whereas the S60 and C180 will only put through $5,000.
In essence, the S60 will hit the right note with commuters who are after the solid and insulated feel. The C-Class' age may be a cause for concern, but will still charm with its intrinsic interior. For those who are looking out for a car that will provide a rewarding drive, and a tinge of fun motoring without sacrificing practicality, the Bimmer will no doubt fit the bill.
Conclusion
The 316i's brilliance may be hampered by the lack of outright pace, but it makes up for it with its practicality. The Bimmer will garner a $10,000 CEVS rebate, whereas the S60 and C180 will only put through $5,000.
In essence, the S60 will hit the right note with commuters who are after the solid and insulated feel. The C-Class' age may be a cause for concern, but will still charm with its intrinsic interior. For those who are looking out for a car that will provide a rewarding drive, and a tinge of fun motoring without sacrificing practicality, the Bimmer will no doubt fit the bill.
Automakers will not be considered mainstream if they haven't had a contender in this segment. And like diet staples, these cars have filled much of the local's appetite for sensible motoring.
Yes, we are on the topic of compact sedans.
These booted four-door commutes have been around for as long as we can remember, and arguably, after being through many generations, have been thoroughly honed.
They pack less of the chivalry which their raised SUV cousins can be boastful of. Being 'Bread & Butter' also gives you an idea that these cars aren't the most inspiring, to say the least - else we would have termed them Caviar and Wine.
On the hindsight, necessity being the mother of all inventions, one simply cannot negate the purpose of these cars.
Exterior
Choosing between the trio can be as hard as picking your dining location - each gives a different set of character/taste that will score a high with its distinct taste bud.
The C180 which has been around for the longest time gets a healthy dose of modern decorations - such as daytime running lights - to stay in tune with the rest of the pack. And like what the three-pointed star was known to be, the C-Class feels clinical and sombre - less of the shout-out you get from the bimmer.
Yes, we are on the topic of compact sedans.
These booted four-door commutes have been around for as long as we can remember, and arguably, after being through many generations, have been thoroughly honed.
They pack less of the chivalry which their raised SUV cousins can be boastful of. Being 'Bread & Butter' also gives you an idea that these cars aren't the most inspiring, to say the least - else we would have termed them Caviar and Wine.
On the hindsight, necessity being the mother of all inventions, one simply cannot negate the purpose of these cars.
Exterior
Choosing between the trio can be as hard as picking your dining location - each gives a different set of character/taste that will score a high with its distinct taste bud.
The C180 which has been around for the longest time gets a healthy dose of modern decorations - such as daytime running lights - to stay in tune with the rest of the pack. And like what the three-pointed star was known to be, the C-Class feels clinical and sombre - less of the shout-out you get from the bimmer.
If the C-Class has been fed with penicillin, the 316i must have been doping - especially when kitted with this M Sport package. Not that it needed one though - we reckon the razor sharp lines on the new facet would have given it a sporty enough look.
The Swede, on the other hand, is potently quiet - you may not have noticed it among the crowd. But when it starts getting your attention, you will find an ensemble of sheet metals nicely pieced together. Angular air inlets, matt silver inlays/diffuser on the underbody - all these small details give the car a dynamic and complexed, yet subtle look.
The Swede, on the other hand, is potently quiet - you may not have noticed it among the crowd. But when it starts getting your attention, you will find an ensemble of sheet metals nicely pieced together. Angular air inlets, matt silver inlays/diffuser on the underbody - all these small details give the car a dynamic and complexed, yet subtle look.
Interior
More often than not, it is the most eye-catching car that gets the mention first. In this case, the 316i's interior sets itself apart with its contrasting colours. The red interior may raise a few brows, but does its bit to instil a better sense of occasion - proving that daily commutes need not be dull and dreary.
Like its stablemates, the 316i is also the most driver-centric. The centre console is slanted towards the driver, making it easy to reach out to the intuitive buttons and controls. The low seating position also makes the 3er more sporty and engaging.
While the interior of the 3er feels passionate, the C-Class charms with its attention to details. Seams are filled with contrasting stitching while display panels sport aluminium surrounds - an exquisite feel that makes it one of the best in the business.
Venturing inside the C-Class also reveals another of its plus side - the large areas of glass gives the greenhouse a better sense of space. On the downside, the C-Class' interior feels the least bolstered of the trio. The door cushions feel more thinly spread out. And not to mention, the mixture of electronic and manual seat adjusting takes some time to get accustomed to.
More often than not, it is the most eye-catching car that gets the mention first. In this case, the 316i's interior sets itself apart with its contrasting colours. The red interior may raise a few brows, but does its bit to instil a better sense of occasion - proving that daily commutes need not be dull and dreary.
Like its stablemates, the 316i is also the most driver-centric. The centre console is slanted towards the driver, making it easy to reach out to the intuitive buttons and controls. The low seating position also makes the 3er more sporty and engaging.
While the interior of the 3er feels passionate, the C-Class charms with its attention to details. Seams are filled with contrasting stitching while display panels sport aluminium surrounds - an exquisite feel that makes it one of the best in the business.
Venturing inside the C-Class also reveals another of its plus side - the large areas of glass gives the greenhouse a better sense of space. On the downside, the C-Class' interior feels the least bolstered of the trio. The door cushions feel more thinly spread out. And not to mention, the mixture of electronic and manual seat adjusting takes some time to get accustomed to.
On the other hand, insulation is where the Volvo shines, feeling sturdy and well built. The Swedes are among the best when it comes to car seats, providing a right blend of comfort and support - and the S60 is no exception.
Space wise, all three sedans will fit three adults at the rear, with good knee and head room. The S60 is the most comfortable for two, but lacks the shoulder room for three abreast, whereas the 3er and C-Class will fit a third adult with greater ease.
The S60's smaller dimensions also mean that it shies in comparison when it comes to boot space. While the C-Class packs 475 litres and the 3 Series a notch up at 480 litres, the Volvo only gets 380 litres of luggage lugging space.
Space wise, all three sedans will fit three adults at the rear, with good knee and head room. The S60 is the most comfortable for two, but lacks the shoulder room for three abreast, whereas the 3er and C-Class will fit a third adult with greater ease.
The S60's smaller dimensions also mean that it shies in comparison when it comes to boot space. While the C-Class packs 475 litres and the 3 Series a notch up at 480 litres, the Volvo only gets 380 litres of luggage lugging space.
The Drive
While Volvos are less associated with performance, it is the S60 that has the sprightliest performance of the lot. While all three engines are similar in capacity, the T4 churns out 180 horses, putting the 156bhp and 136bhp from the C180 and 316i respectively to shy.
The S60 pulls off more eagerly than the rest at the lights. This six-speeder is tasked to dispatch power to the wheels and while it is not the creamiest of the trio, it is decisively smooth.
That said, the 316i's eight-speed gearbox - being the most intuitive - earns top spot. Not to mention having the extra ratios to work with means a more responsive pickup at any speeds.
Despite having the advantage on paper, the Merc, on the other hand, doesn't feel as quick as its figures suggest. It clocks 8.5 seconds century sprint compared to 9 seconds on the S60 and 9.2 seconds on the 316i.
Driven with a lighter right foot, however, the C-Class charms with a well sorted ride and comfort - one aspect which the S60 is inferior in with its firmer, tauter suspension.
While Volvos are less associated with performance, it is the S60 that has the sprightliest performance of the lot. While all three engines are similar in capacity, the T4 churns out 180 horses, putting the 156bhp and 136bhp from the C180 and 316i respectively to shy.
The S60 pulls off more eagerly than the rest at the lights. This six-speeder is tasked to dispatch power to the wheels and while it is not the creamiest of the trio, it is decisively smooth.
That said, the 316i's eight-speed gearbox - being the most intuitive - earns top spot. Not to mention having the extra ratios to work with means a more responsive pickup at any speeds.
Despite having the advantage on paper, the Merc, on the other hand, doesn't feel as quick as its figures suggest. It clocks 8.5 seconds century sprint compared to 9 seconds on the S60 and 9.2 seconds on the 316i.
Driven with a lighter right foot, however, the C-Class charms with a well sorted ride and comfort - one aspect which the S60 is inferior in with its firmer, tauter suspension.
The 316i, with the least power output, does feel exhaustive when stretched. Still, the lack of outright performance does not dull its driving experience at all. Instead, the sublime handling makes it the most engaging to drive.
Conclusion
The 316i's brilliance may be hampered by the lack of outright pace, but it makes up for it with its practicality. The Bimmer will garner a $10,000 CEVS rebate, whereas the S60 and C180 will only put through $5,000.
In essence, the S60 will hit the right note with commuters who are after the solid and insulated feel. The C-Class' age may be a cause for concern, but will still charm with its intrinsic interior. For those who are looking out for a car that will provide a rewarding drive, and a tinge of fun motoring without sacrificing practicality, the Bimmer will no doubt fit the bill.
Conclusion
The 316i's brilliance may be hampered by the lack of outright pace, but it makes up for it with its practicality. The Bimmer will garner a $10,000 CEVS rebate, whereas the S60 and C180 will only put through $5,000.
In essence, the S60 will hit the right note with commuters who are after the solid and insulated feel. The C-Class' age may be a cause for concern, but will still charm with its intrinsic interior. For those who are looking out for a car that will provide a rewarding drive, and a tinge of fun motoring without sacrificing practicality, the Bimmer will no doubt fit the bill.
Car Information
Volvo S60 T4 (A)
CAT B|Petrol|14.7km/L
Horsepower
134kW (180 bhp)
Torque
240 Nm
Acceleration
9sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Volvo S60Mercedes-Benz C-Class C180 CGI (A)
CAT A|Petrol|16.4km/L
Horsepower
116kW (156 bhp)
Torque
250 Nm
Acceleration
8.5sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Mercedes-Benz C-ClassBMW 3 Series Sedan 316i Sport (A)
CAT B|Petrol|16.9km/L
Horsepower
101kW (136 bhp)
Torque
220 Nm
Acceleration
9.2sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used BMW 3 Series SedanThank You For Your Subscription.