I'm trying to decide whether to buy the '05 C230 or the BMW 3series. I've test driven the new mercedes and was surprised of the performance. The 4 door sedan was only 4 cylinders but it was extremely fast. If someone knows these two cars really well and the pros or cons of each car it would be greatful thanks.

well.. it depends.

the c230 has a kompressor, which means it gets about 185 hp from a 1.8 liter engine. Good gas mileage, and it hauls like a bat outta hell. I have a 2000 c230. It rocks.

the new e46 3series., hmm.. I had an e36 1998 325is.. it was sweet! all of the suspension setups on the 3series are all the same, just different engine sizes. Due note that the m3 is the only execption, as it's setup and 3.2 lite engine is only m3.

you have your choice between a 318,(1.8 liter engine) 320, (2 liter, which i think only comes in diesel) 323 (2.3 liters) 325 which is the most common, the 328, and the 330. BMW handling kicks ass, and pair that up with a 5spd.. well its over baby.

but price wise the c230 is cheaper, more gas efficent, and still has that class element. The bmw can be more powerful depending on the engine, but much more costly.. 38k for the merc, 45+ for the top of the line bimmer.

One thing to be weary of with either car, whether or not it's new or used, it check the electrical systems.. MB quality has gone down hill since the mid 90's concerning this, and BMW isnt the best, but decent.

The BMW is a much better car.