What are the differences between the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Mercedes-Benz CLA?
3 Answers
The differences between the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Mercedes-Benz CLA are: 1. Different classes: The Mercedes-Benz C-Class belongs to the mid-size car category; the Mercedes-Benz CLA belongs to the compact car category. 2. Different body dimensions: The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has a body length, width, and height of 4714mm, 1810mm, and 1442mm respectively; the Mercedes-Benz CLA has a body length, width, and height of 4654mm, 1777mm, and 1413mm respectively. 3. Different wheelbases: The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has a wheelbase of 2840mm; the Mercedes-Benz CLA has a wheelbase of 2699mm. 4. Different transmissions: The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is equipped with a 9-speed automatic manual transmission; the Mercedes-Benz CLA is equipped with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
I've seen many cars and think the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and CLA have the most distinct exterior designs. The CLA looks like an athlete, with a low-slung body and sharp lines, especially the coupe-like roofline and hatchback tailgate, which create a strong visual impact and make it stand out on the street. In contrast, the C-Class resembles a gentleman, with a more stable and generous silhouette, less aggressive in appearance. I've driven the CLA a few times, and the rear seat space is really tight—legroom is cramped, and fitting large luggage in the trunk is a challenge. The C-Class is much more spacious, with enough room for two people to sit comfortably in the back, making family outings more pleasant. In terms of details, the CLA's door handles are cooler but slightly less practical, while the C-Class's door panel storage compartments are more thoughtful. Overall, the CLA appeals to young people who want to express their individuality, while the C-Class suits families or commuters who prioritize comfort. If you enjoy driving pleasure, the CLA offers more agile handling.
As a daily driver, I find the Mercedes-Benz CLA offers a more direct and agile driving experience. The steering is light and responsive, making it particularly nimble when turning on city roads, and its compact body allows for easy maneuvering. However, the seats are somewhat firm, which can be tiring on long drives. The C-Class, on the other hand, has a softer suspension setup, almost eliminating the feel of bumps on rough roads, and its sound insulation is excellent, providing a very stable ride on highways. In terms of power, the base model CLA has average acceleration, though the sport mode can add a bit of excitement. The C-Class generally offers stronger performance, making overtaking effortless. I tested the stability of the rear-wheel-drive C-Class after rain and found it superior to the somewhat floaty feel of the front-wheel-drive CLA. Overall, the CLA delivers a lively driving feel but is more limited in versatility, while the C-Class is a more well-rounded performer, adapting better to various road conditions.
