In Brief
The entry-level Mercedes C 300 Electric delivers performance that is remarkably close to its top-end C 400 sibling, with only 68 horsepower fewer, a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds, and a WLTP range of up to 690 kilometers (about 430 miles). While the C 400 still holds an edge in power, acceleration, and charging, the gap narrows considerably. Equipment remains similar between the two models, with certain premium features requiring options. Given a price shortfall of 4,760 euros, the C 300 appears to be a sensible choice for buyers seeking performance and value within Mercedes’ electric C-Class lineup.
The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class electric lineup is already expanding. After an initial introduction as the potent C 400 4Matic, the sedan now welcomes a more affordable C 300 Electric. And on paper, this entry-level version retains performance close enough to its bigger sister to pose a question. Does the C 400 still justify its price premium?
A Mercedes C 300 Electric Is No Bargain
When Mercedes unveiled the Electric C-Class this past April, only the C 400 4Matic was shown. This variant, equipped with two electric motors and all-wheel drive, develops 490 horsepower. It blasts from 0 to 60 mph in 4 seconds and relies on a usable 94 kWh battery.
Its WLTP range climbs to 762 km, while the maximum charging power rises to 330 kW. Those are particularly generous figures, and the new C 300 doesn’t seek to pull away from them by a large margin.
Because despite its lower position in the lineup, the latter still retains two electric motors and all-wheel drive. Its torque also remains at 800 Nm. The power, however, decreases to 422 horsepower.
A logical consequence, the 0 to 60 mph sprint requires 4.5 seconds. Only half a second separates the two variants on this metric. This keeps the C 300 Electric at an exceptionally high level of performance.
Up to 690 km of Range for the C 300
Mercedes also opted for a smaller battery in this version. Its capacity reaches 85 kWh, versus 94 kWh for the C 400. The C 300 still claims up to 690 km of range according to WLTP. That’s only 72 km less than the higher-end model.
The difference remains limited during rapid charging as well. The maximum power drops from 330 to 320 kW. In ten minutes, the Mercedes C 300 can recover up to 290 km of range, whereas the C 400 gains 325 km in the same window.
The equipment also doesn’t seem to allow the C 400 to pull away by a large margin. In either case, you’ll need to opt for certain packages to enjoy features such as the air suspension, a front-passenger display, or larger-than-18-inch wheels.
Thus, the pricing in Germany is where the C 300 really earns points. It is listed at 62,951 euros, versus 67,711 euros for the C 400. The gap thus stands at 4,760 euros between the two electric Mercedes models.
The Electric C-Class Range Will Broaden Further
The C 300 offers 422 horsepower, 800 Nm of torque, all-wheel drive, and nearly 700 km of WLTP range. All while demanding substantially less than the C 400. The latter still holds the advantage in power, acceleration, range, and charging, but the gaps remain fairly modest.
And Mercedes isn’t stopping at just these two variants. Even cheaper models with a single electric motor and rear-wheel drive are already planned. At the far end of the lineup, AMG is preparing a triple-motor version that will deliver at least 680 horsepower. Yes, at least, since that’s the power figure of the CLA 45 EV rumored to sit lower in the range.
The Mercedes C 300 Electric could thus occupy a particularly interesting place within the lineup. Close enough to the C 400 in terms of performance and range, but significantly cheaper, it could make climbing to the higher model harder to justify for some buyers.
Comparison Table
| Model | Number of Motors | Drivetrain | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) | 0–60 mph (s) | Usable Battery (kWh) | WLTP Range (km) | Max Charge Power (kW) | Range Gain in 10 min (km) | Price (euros) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C 300 | 2 | All-Wheel Drive | 422 | 800 | 4.5 | 85 | 690 | 320 | 290 | 62.951 |
| C 400 | 2 | All-Wheel Drive | 490 | 800 | 4 | 94 | 762 | 330 | 325 | 67.711 |
The Essentials to Remember
- The Mercedes C 300 Electric offers near-C 400 performance at a much lower price.
- It delivers 422 horsepower, 800 Nm of torque, and all-wheel drive.
- 0–60 mph in 4.5 seconds, versus 4 seconds for the C 400.
- WLTP range up to 690 km with an 85 kWh battery.
- Fast charging at up to 320 kW, enabling about 290 km of range in 10 minutes.
- Premium options are available on both models.
- The Electric C-Class lineup will be expanded with additional versions, either cheaper or more powerful.
FAQ
What are the main differences between the Mercedes C 300 and C 400 electric?
The C 400 offers more power, faster acceleration, greater range, and a slightly better charging capability, while the C 300 is more affordable and still maintains a high level of performance.
How much does the Mercedes C 300 Electric cost?
The Mercedes C 300 Electric is listed at 62,951 euros on the German market.
What is the range of the Mercedes C 300 Electric?
The C 300 Electric’s WLTP range reaches up to 690 km.
Does the Mercedes C 300 Electric have all-wheel drive?
Yes, the C 300 Electric benefits from two motors and all-wheel drive.
What equipment is optional on the Electric C-Class?
Air suspension, a front-passenger display, and wheels larger than 18 inches are available as options on both models.
