2021 Dodge Charger vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The 2021 Dodge Charger, a staple in the muscle car segment, continued to captivate buyers with its wide array of variants, from the base SXT to the high-performance SRT Hellcat Redeye. Despite the subtle differences among the models, the Charger maintained a consistent design that resonated with its "brotherhood of muscle" ethos. The widebody option, available on select models, added an extra 3.5 inches to the car's stance, enhancing its athletic appeal. The exterior offered a plethora of customization options, including 18 different wheel choices and 13 paint colors with evocative names like Hellraisin and Frostbite. However, the interior, while improved over the years, still lagged in terms of luxury and modern technology, with hard plastics and rubberized surfaces more akin to a utilitarian vehicle than a premium sedan.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class presented a more refined and cohesive design, borrowing elements from its luxury siblings like the S-Class. The sedan's cab-rearward proportions emphasized its rear-wheel-drive platform, distinguishing it from the front-wheel-drive CLA and A-Class models. Standard LED headlights and taillights, with an optional Digital Light system, added to its sophisticated appearance. Inside, the C-Class aimed to emulate the opulence of the S-Class, featuring a freestanding touchscreen, ambient lighting, and intricate speaker grilles. While the standard MBTex synthetic leather was typical for its class, the overall interior ambiance made a compelling case for choosing a luxury vehicle over mainstream alternatives.

The 2021 Dodge Charger excelled in performance, offering a range of engines to suit different driving preferences. The base models, including the SXT and GT, were equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering up to 300 horsepower and 264 pound-feet of torque. The R/T variant featured a 5.7-liter HEMI V8, producing 370 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 1,000 pounds. The Scat Pack models boasted a 6.4-liter HEMI V8, generating 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. The SRT Hellcat and Hellcat Redeye models took performance to the extreme with supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 engines, producing 717 hp and 797 hp, respectively. Despite the impressive power, the Charger managed to offer a connected driving experience, though the high-performance variants were less fuel-efficient.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, specifically the C300, featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, complemented by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This setup allowed for a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. The sportier AMG C43 variant, with a more powerful 2.0-liter engine, delivered 402 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds. While the C300 offered sufficient power, it suffered from turbo lag and occasional rough shifts. However, the ride quality met luxury standards, and the car handled well on twisty roads, though it required a more deliberate driving approach compared to top sports sedans.

The 2021 Dodge Charger, a four-door, five-passenger sedan, balanced performance with practicality, offering a spacious back seat and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat for additional cargo space. The instrument cluster varied by model, reflecting the car's top speed, while the steering wheel provided easy access to in-car functions. Despite its size, the Charger offered average cargo space compared to other large cars.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, available only as a sedan, offered increased interior space compared to its predecessor, with improved headroom and legroom. The C-Class led its segment in front-seat headroom and rear-seat legroom, though front legroom was less competitive. The seats provided comfort and support for spirited driving, while the trunk offered 17.9 cubic feet of space, with a wide opening for easy loading. The 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench allowed for accommodating longer items.

The 2021 Dodge Charger came with basic standard features, including a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Optional upgrades included a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen, premium audio systems, and navigation. However, the lack of a head-up display and the outdated Uconnect system detracted from its tech appeal.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class featured a sophisticated infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch touchscreen. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with the MBUX system, provided a seamless user experience. The C-Class also offered a head-up display and augmented-reality navigation, enhancing its tech credentials.

The 2021 Dodge Charger received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard features like brake assist and electronic stability control. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, while not yet rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, offered a comprehensive suite of standard and optional safety features. These included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and Pre-Safe systems. Optional features like lane-keep assist and Car-to-X communication further enhanced its safety profile.