2026 BMW 3 Series vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Both are commonly cross-shopped against each other. Here’s how their real 5-year ownership costs actually compare, using real market pricing data rather than sticker price alone.
Pricing data refreshed monthly · last updated September 2026
2026 BMW 3 Series
$58,6105-year total · $977/moPrice: $56,634 · 31 MPG
Depreciation: $31,038 · Fuel: $6,774
Insurance: $12,000 · Maintenance: $5,300
2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
$59,4955-year total · $992/moPrice: $56,206 · 30 MPG
Depreciation: $31,723 · Fuel: $7,000
Insurance: $12,000 · Maintenance: $5,300
Most of the gap comes from depreciation ($685 higher for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class) and fuel/energy ($226 higher for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class).
After 5 years, the BMW 3 Series keeps about 45% of its value and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class about 44%.
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