Honda Car Forum

Can't decide b/t Acura TL and Mercedez C230. What are some pros and cons?

Mercedes C230 --Pros -It carries the prestige of a Mercedes.It's RWD (which is another way of saying it's not FWD...and the 'stigma' some seem to associate with it)It has an classy, European body styleIt's attractively priced as an 'intro' BenzLuxury interior trimCons -Reliability has not been so good of late with MB.Higher cost of ownership/operationNot a true sport sedan Acura TL --Pros -Great $ value for an intro luxury-sport sedanGood power in base model, even better in Type S trimHonda reliability Superb interior trim...sportier than MBCons -Current model about to be replaced...might wait for the '09 Downside of FWD (some torque steer; thought otherwise handles very good; the '09 should be AWD or minimally, RWD)

I would agree with snook above. I would also add that the C class is considerably smaller than the the TL in overall size. I currently drive an accord and absolutely love it. But it is my third acura. i love their cars. solidly made, virtually no maintenance problems. I have never had anything major happen to it. I love the TL navigation system. it is so easy to use and the built in blue tooth handsfree system is awesome.For me I think with the Benz, you are paying for the name. It is a nice car, but I am not willing to buy a smaller car for more money.

the TL is faster and has more features for the $ but the C230 has the mercedes badge on it. It all depends on how important the brand image is to you. I think the TL is superior car on paper (features + performance)personally, i wouldn't get either car. step it up and get a 335i. you won't be disappointed

I haven't owned either or stepped in either car. From pictures it looks like the MB has a more luxurious interior. I don't know the reliability of Mercedes though. Acura's have always been reliable. Nothing beats saying that you own a Mercedes though. Acura's always have better package deals to. Do some shopping around. The TL is being redesigned so if you can wait until the '09 model. I do like the styling of the new C class.Oh yeah go for test drives to. I never get people who buy cars without test driving them first.

This question is on an Acura section so I guess is the best thing since sliced bread. IMHO, I would not buy an Overpriced Honda. Does not matter how many gadgets are place inside the car, bells, whistle and any other accessory that you can purchase on any other place, still an Overdressed / Overpriced Honda.My brother has one and I was not impressed with it after I found out how much he paid for it.For the most I read is, they have really bad trannies. So, I would go with MB at least I am getting some original.So the bottom line... You are gadget freak that covers the shortcomings of the car by entertaining yourself with the on board toys, that is the car for you. But still drives like a Honda. BTW, there is no luxury about it, just pretending.And now, I am waiting for someone to tell me that I am wrong... Here we go !!!!!!!

Acura interior and displays are much better then the European car makers, they have to many big boxy buttons and it just doesn't look as neat and sleek as the Japanese makers. Get the blue LCD lights for the interior as well, I havew them and it makes the inside pop at night