2021 MERCEDES C300 vs. 2021 LEXUS ES250 | 8 - Point COMPARISON!

Even if you compare other Mercedes vs. Lexus models, which are of the same class, this exclusive comparison should give you a good idea of the two rivals' core differences. At the end of this shopping-guide video, you'll see the exact contrasts between Mercedes and Lexus so that you can make an intelligent decision on your own!
A lot of people asked me to compare the Mercedes C300 and Lexus ES250. I wouldn't necessarily compare these two models to each other, but many of you asked me to do it, and I know why! These two models are top-rated, best selling in their class, and the price is similar.
And a lot of you asked me: "Which car should I buy? They both about the same price, they're both luxury cars, they're both very popular, which one should I buy?" In this video, we'll make an 8-point comparison of the price, size and comfort, design, performance, fuel economy, safety, technology, and we're also going to touch upon the maintenance. And at the end, we'll do a bottom line, where you can see the exact difference between both models. Coming up, right now!
To make a fair comparison, we're going to compare both base models, and the only option we will add - is a Sport package. 2021 ES250 comes only with the four-wheel drive, there is no other option, and it's a front-wheel-drive centric all-wheel drive, so it means - it uses front wheels, and if it needs to use the rear, it will transfer from front to back.
2021 Mercedes C300 comes standard with the rear-wheel-drive, but to make a fair comparison, we will add 4Matic, which is an all-wheel drive. But the difference is rear-wheel-drive-centric, so it uses the rear wheels most of the time, unlike Lexus, and only transfers the torque to the front wheels when needed.
The sport package for Mercedes is called the AMG Line, and the sport package for Lexus is called F-Sport. Both packages don't add any performance, just a little improvement on the suspension and brakes. However, the sport package makes a big difference in the appearance of both models. Mercedes gets much better lines, nicer AMG wheels, much better lower bodywork, much better interior, way better-looking front grille.
Similarly, the Lexus F-Sport package offers much sportier wheels, more aggressive body styling, and a few more extras.
The first thing we'll compare is the price... (Read More at mbzmaster.com/)
You can jump directly to your video point of interest:
00:00 2021 Mercedes C300 vs. 2021 Lexus ES250;
02:46 2021 Mercedes C300 vs. 2021 Lexus ES250 - Price Comparison;
03:18 2021 Mercedes C300 vs. 2021 Lexus ES250 - Size and Dimension Comparison;
03:53 2021 Mercedes C300 vs. 2021 Lexus ES250 - Interior Comparison;
05:21 2021 Mercedes C300 vs. 2021 Lexus ES250 - Design Comparison;
07:27 2021 Mercedes C300 vs. 2021 Lexus ES250 - Performance Comparison;
08:46 2021 Mercedes C300 vs. 2021 Lexus ES250 - Fuel Efficiency Comparison;
09:48 2021 Mercedes C300 vs. 2021 Lexus ES250 - Safety Comparison;
12:47 2021 Mercedes C300 vs. 2021 Lexus ES250 - Technology Comparison;
14:23 2021 Mercedes C300 vs. 2021 Lexus ES250 - Maintenance Comparison;
15:58 2021 Mercedes C300 vs. 2021 Lexus ES250 - Bottom Line Full Comparison.
LINKS:
Browse all my stuff in one place at MBZMaster.com/
We used some footage under an "editorial purpose permission" from Daimler Global Media and Lexus Pressroom.

[@wolfgangezeh2221]

I will buy a Mercedes. I have always had a Mercedes Benz. Thanks for your educative videos.

[@lexsemenenko]

My Mercedes C300 AMG Line 4matic. Most important feature for me: 50/50 Weight Distribution. And then timeless design. Great Video

[@bababa4275]

Great video, Thank you.

[@riamatasiam9379]

For sure I will take Mercedez Benz, compare to Lexus.. Not only the brand, but many thinks that you've compare in your video, well done!

[@irahemtulla]

I’d also like to see a comparison of the Customer service. The Lexus Mantra for customer service is unmatched !! This is my 3rd C300 & while I’m utterly in love with this car, I’m totally disappointed & dissatisfied with their Customer Service. Also should mention that our previous 2016 had a conspicuous ticking sound (almost like a Diesel engine running especially in cold temperatures). It was related to incorrect tolerance between piston pin/piston. They would not admit this until I found out through blogs that many owners had this problem. Reluctantly my dealership (which is Corporate), agreed to rebuild the engine (only 1 yr old with only about 10K Kms!). After the so called “rebuild”, (I was not allowed to witness the work), nothing changed. I got so frustrated that I traded it in a for a new 2018 which had a newly designed engine. This model has been fine..& I love it.

[@MBZMaster]

I can't compare the customer service, because it has nothing to do with the car. It dependents on the particular service center you use and people who work there. Mercedes doesn't own any dealerships in the U.S. They are all independent. So if you don't like the service of any dealership, you can go to another one... although if any dealerships offers a poor service - they won't last for a long, and will be out of business quickly because of competition.

[@jaguar7051]

Very interesting

[@tax905972]

That same engine is pretty powerful in the larger SUV’s like the GLC and GLE .

[@tax905972]

C300 can go from $35,000 up to $80,000 depending on options.

[@irahemtulla]

Excellent graphical presentation! Thanks..Just wondering: we have the Lexus E350 in Canada . You’ve used Es250 for your comparison. Also you mentioned that MB has Apple Car Play for the last 4 yrs. I’ve a 2018 C300 & it does NOT have this capability. Although I’m told that it was included in later 2018 & on models

[@MBZMaster]

ES350 has a V6 engine, so it should be compared to C350 or C43 AMG as far as performance and efficiency. But everything else should be similar. I mentioned that most MB models had AA and Carplay over the last 4 years, but not all of them. 2018 C300 also had it as an option. So, probably your car didn't have this option.

[@briji8477]

IMO the most important thing to compare between 2 cars is reliability and you did not mention it at all , wow

[@MBZMaster]

While I can't predict the future reliability of 2021 model years, historically both C-Class and ES have been very reliable models. Most modern cars are very reliable, as long as you take care of them. However, I disagree on it to be the most important thing. IMO the most important quality of the car is safety, followed by performance. Because you can find a lot of new cheap cars with very little design or technology for safety. Although they may be reliable (because not much can break there), their safety ratings are not to a serious standards.

[@Gemini530]

Lol, this guy is Mercedes bias

[@nubreaks2]

@MBZMaster , Reliability IS the most important thing. Most I know and other reviews put a premium on it because people want to know that they will not get stranded while driving a good-looking car, and they want to know how much it cost to maintain it. Safety is important, but most people do not buy based on how many airbags it has or how much of a crumple-zone is present. They will buy faced on other features, but reliability should've been a metric in your video.

[@Gemini530]

@@nubreaks2 ... That would be an added point for Lexus and he can't allow that

[@christinabenskin5913]

I am new to owning a benz. Been a lexus and bmw owner in the past. My driving experience so far with my GLB250 has been the best so far compare to those two. However, as far as comfort goes, I'd say lexus is superior. Otherwise, benz is just so fun to drive! I love it.

[@MBZMaster]

Usually, when you compare two cars - what feature is the most important to be compared... and why?

[@sergiys23]

For me suspension, air suspension is very soft !

[@MBZMaster]

You can tighten suspension by using the Dynamic Select, as I've shown in this video demo on GLS450 with air suspension: bit.ly/MBZM-DS

[@miminguyen6195]

Which one is break down more often and the part which car is cheaper?

[@MBZMaster]

Both models are very reliable, as long as you take care of them.

[@jlobarce]

Excelente comparación, Sin duda Mercedes Benz es el preferido por todos pero a mi me gusta LEXUS y me compare el ES300, he tenido BMW 328i y Lexus IS350 y entre los 2 modelos Lexus me brindo más confort, más tranquilidad, en cambio BMW me dio algunos problemas en mantenimiento costosos. Por esa razón me quedo con fiabilidad de Lexus sobre los alemanes. Saludos

[@sergiys23]

I Would choose the GLS 🙂👍

[@tax905972]

Lexus isn’t in the same class as a Benz.

[@johnhoey4605]

I’ve never seen one Lexus that has the same curb appeal as MB. I’ll match my CLS against any Lexus. Ever wonder why Lexus’ never become “classics?”

[@tax905972]

@@johnhoey4605 Lexus IS a new brand of your gonna compare it to the likes of MB. I believe they came out in 1989.

[@storyofmylife7080]

Yes, it is. Are you seriously? It’s in the top 5 for the highest selling luxury brands. Please, stop.

[@nubreaks2]

Actually, they are. In fact, the S-Class and LS are in the same segment as the G90, 7-Series, and A8. Experts would laugh you out of the room for that statement.

[@nubreaks2]

@johnhoey4605 , first, Lexus was formed in 1989 based on the classic Toyota Celsior. The LS 400 IS a classic as the 430 and 460 are recent (2000s) and gave way to the 500. The LS 400 is considered by many to be the best passenger car ever made and is still bulletproof. Classic Mercedes are older and reliable. The newer MBs, not as much. Lexus is the current reliability king. Your assessment was ridiculous.

[@prettygirlrocks]

Can you compare with the GSF? I had one before my C300 and loved it. But the C300 is really fun and perfect for me I’m only 5’2” do I don’t need extra space.

[@MBZMaster]

I plan to do more comparisons. GSF should stand against the E-Class.

[@prettygirlrocks]

@@MBZMaster okay, that makes sense. Would you say the C300 is a step down from GS 300 2nd generation?

[@MBZMaster]

@@prettygirlrocks No, I still prefer C300, even to the current GS. But when someone compares models, he should try to compare cars of the same class, size, and price. Otherwise, it's apples against oranges.

[@prettygirlrocks]

@@MBZMaster I agree I loved my 3GS I had it for many years. I have now a c300 4matic. Your videos, especially the one on how to disable the unlocking of all of the doors has really made me feel safe around my car. My gs didn’t open all of the doors but when I got the c300 I noticed all of the doors would unlock and I really didn’t like that. So thank you!! Many women need to know this! Do you have IG page?

[@MBZMaster]

@@prettygirlrocks Yes, but I just started recently, so not much there instagram.com/mbzmaster/

[@frederickyahnsr.9004]

Your info about MB systems is awesome. I have a 2015 ML350 now but rather drive my 2004 Chevy Tahoe. More interior room and the engine in the Chevy is bullet proof and stronger. However, the hootie-tootie crowd at kids soccer games would pick the MB.

[@MBZMaster]

I actually like older Tahoe, like yours 2004, than the newer one in 2020! I wouldn't compare V8 to V6, and if you do - you need to compare to ML550, or even to the high performance ML63 AMG with a racing start. Size wise - compare to GLS-Class. Chevy Tahoe is a better car if you need to haul stuff, especially off-road. ML needs an open highway, where you can step and go. Even ML350 has much better suspension, and it handles and corners much better than Chevy. ML has tight U-turn radius, it's easy to park, easy to get around. Also ML has much better safety technology in case of an accident. Newer GLE smart models (ML replacement) can avoid accident by themselves, without the driver input.

[@frederickyahnsr.9004]

@@MBZMaster yes that makes sense the ML 350 loves a twisty highway

[@nscuthbert]

I am a Benz owner but this does appear like a Mercedes ad, particularly listening to the more upbeat music when discussing the Mercedes features.

[@MBZMaster]

Thank you for your feedback. Usually, the ad sounds like a one-sided statement: "Buy my product, because it's much better!!!" In this video, I didn't say what's better and what to buy. Just presented the raw data, and tried to explain my observations on both models. Actually, mentioned that either car can fit your ideals - based on your needs.

[@JeanBrasher]

Are there any other car manufacturers that make a model that has the same as the MBUX system? Can you talk to another car and have it do the same things MBUX does?

[@MBZMaster]

I don't know of any as comprehensive as MBUX.

[@JeanBrasher]

@@MBZMaster thank you

[@donfox1774]

You forget one comparison reliability which is very important. Please add next time. Thanks!

[@MBZMaster]

Good point! Although... I don't find the Reliability figures very accurate, because they are based on the owners complains and the number of service performed. Obviously, Mercedes-Benz owners tend to complain and bring their car to service a lot more... than for example Mazda owners. Something very insignificant that wouldn't bother the driver of any regular car, can be a major disappointment of the most Benz customers, because they expect much more than can be realistic.

[@Gemini530]

Yup, and resale value too. He's obviously Mercedes bias

[@thegoodman3810]

The Lexus ES dont compete with the C-class the IS do

[@MBZMaster]

I agree, as I said at the beginning of the video. But many people asked me to compare to ES, probably because of the same price point.

[@DeeCee1150]

Merc every time.

[@nubreaks2]

What about reliability?

[@Gemini530]

That would be Lexus, and since this guy is Mercedes biased, he will not bring up factors that would make Lexus win overall. Btw, the es350 gets to 60 in around 6 secs, not 8

[@keithbradfield7825]

C300👍

[@dmitrye3212]

Lexus ES250 is more family oriented since it has more space for rear passengers. Lexus will have higher resale value since it can be used for taxi.

[@dmitrye3212]

Mercedes C300 comes with Run-Flat tires. These tires are more expensive and have to be changed at lower mileage.

[@MBZMaster]

If you have Run-Flats, you'll never get stuck in the middle of the road, in the middle of the night, immobilized. My wife blew 2 tires in one month this December, and both times she got home safely. But you're right, those tires are more expensive.

[@lucast594]

This makes no sense. Mb is now build to last a lease ,that means after 40 k miles they are no reliable no more . The Lexus buy it to keep it 10 years or more , because they are trouble free . 2 dif buyers type . Nothing wrong .

[@MBZMaster]

There is a widespread perception that Lexus is more trouble free than Mercedes, but I don't see it, and I worked for both brands.

[@WilliamMasakin]

I Drive a Benz

[@angelofanella7860]

Size doesn’t matter just look how small LA county looks on a map

[@kanardbreed]

Mercedes-Benz exterior design looks really ugly than other luxury cars because their cars looks like an EGG (on the exterior)! LOL! Performance: Lexus performs and lasts longer than any other brand (except Toyota) due to top reliability in the automotive market. Technology: Lexus technology system doesn't breakdown much like other automotive brands.

[@MBZMaster]

I think you mistake the Technology and Performance... with Reliability. Those are 3 different measurements. For example the chainsaw is less reliable than just a regular axe. So the axe has better - Reliability. But the chainsaw has much better Performance, and much more advanced Technology.

[@xcvgfhbbcv]

Lexus ES should be compared with E Benz, not C

[@MBZMaster]

I agree! But a lot of people asked me to compare C vs. ES because of the same price point. So, I guess they tried to compare which is a better buy, if it cost you the same amount of money.

[@xcvgfhbbcv]

@@MBZMaster I see, make sense, thanks!

[@allielerman1414]

I will take the mercedes benz. hey mercedes I need gas r coffee. I finally got my mercedes benz gla 250 4matic back for the dealership it has been a week.

[@juhdah2146]

I really don't think you can go wrong with either. It boils down to preferences. I do think the MB exterior is a little more attractive, however. My two buddies have these models, it boils down to which F***K face keeps his car clean.

[@valentineagozie9581]

It’s clear that this guy is a Mercedes fan. How can you match up a Mercedes with a Lexus in reliably.

[@amedmohebbi6161]

Lexus

[@randommercedesmgtow3675]

Am buying Mercedes. There's no way Toyota can drive like Benz

[@storyofmylife7080]

You’re right. It’s better.

[@vanity1914]

This video is very preferential to the Mercedes. He's saying nothing about the reliability. The Benz won't last as long as the Lexus. Ultimately Lexus is best to be bought, Mercedes is best for lease.

[@MBZMaster]

I worked for both MB and Lexus, and I have a different opinion. There are more old Mercedes on the road today... than any other cars.

[@vanity1914]

I hear you. Definitely not arguing that Mercedes isn't superior for technology, the only other company that gives them competition on that scale is Audi. But, over time that over embellished technology breaks down, and the repair cost are astounding for it. Lexus hasn't had those problems because it's technology has been basic. Not disputing your opinion, but there's way more older Lexus vehicles on the road then older Mercedes due to my last statement. But I still enjoy your videos and respect your opinions.

[@SteeveohRising]

Clearly the Mercedes-Benz. Now tell us about that half shaved off mustache.

[@MBZMaster]

Tried a new look with the 1920's style mustache... but mostly getting negative reviews. Lol!

[@SteeveohRising]

@@MBZMaster good stuff! LoL. I’m really enjoying your videos too. Cheers.

[@cruddybanz4109]

Lexus allday merc wont even last 100,000 miles !!!

[@Gemini530]

Hahahaha, biased reviewer. Listen to his tone of voice. His voice lights up when he talks about mercedes, and turns uninterested when it's Lexus, hahahaha.

[@MBZMaster]

I worked for both Mercedes-Benz and Lexus, and this is my personal opinion on both models that you can agree or disagree. It's purely based on technical specs and personal experience.

[@MustafaAlAttas]

Dislike 👎

[@kofiarthur3749]

It is only in North America People complain about Mercedes and the reason are they have very very bad poor Mercedes Mechanics and the parts are extremely expensive so many Mercedes owners tend to ignore even a minor repairs and then it becomes worse. Lexus like many Asian manufacturers gives you more for free just to attract buyers but 90% of people who have driven Mercedes would never go to Lexus unless you wanna save money. Mercedes paint and paint finish, structural, design interior &exterior, brakes, performance, handling, aerodynamics from New till after 10yrs on road are way way better than Lexus. I saw a Ytuber explaining features of 2013 Lexus Rx350 and most of the things he was very impressed about were in my 2002 Mercedes C240....Mercedes isn't afraid to introduce new technologies that's why at times they have too many minor issue unlike Lexus their designs dont change very often...they always wait till others perfect the technology before they put it into their vehicles. Mercedes are BUILT while Lexus are MADE