2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2021 Chrysler 300

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, part of the W213 generation, showcased a design evolution that embraced the "sensual purity" theme, moving away from the sharper lines of its predecessor. This model featured a more fluid and curvier form, reminiscent of the S-Class and C-Class models. The E-Class had a slightly edgier front with squinted headlights and an inverted trapezoid grille, while the rear design echoed the W212 with horizontal taillights. Despite the absence of the classic standing hood ornament, the E-Class maintained its elegant and reserved appearance, especially in its AMG variants, which boasted a more dramatic look with quad exhaust tips and 20-inch wheels. Inside, the E-Class was a showcase of luxury, with rich woods, aluminum, and carbon fiber adorning the cabin. The interior was a blend of decadent materials and modern technology, featuring two 12-inch screens and a digital display that replaced analog gauges, making it a standout in its class.

In contrast, the 2021 Chrysler 300 retained its classic "three-box design," a nod to a bygone era without the influence of retrofuturism. The 300's design was straightforward and timeless, with a tough, no-nonsense appearance. The grille and headlights had evolved over the years, with the 2021 model featuring bi-xenon halogen projector lamps and LED driving lamps. The 300 offered a range of wheel options, from 17-inch silver alloys to 20-inch Black Noise wheels on the 300S. Inside, the Chrysler 300 provided a level of interior quality that rivaled more expensive vehicles, with Nappa leather upholstery and heated front seats available on higher trims. The 300's cabin was spacious, offering generous legroom and a comfortable ride, making it a strong contender in the luxury sedan market.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced significant changes to its powertrain lineup, with the E450 model transitioning to an electrified inline-six engine. This hybrid system, featuring a 48-volt electrical system, provided an additional 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque for brief moments, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. The E450's 3.0-liter engine produced 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG E53 added a second turbo, delivering 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. The AMG E63 S, with its hand-built 4.0-liter V8, boasted 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, offering a thrilling driving experience. Despite the impressive performance, the E-Class maintained its reputation for comfort and stability, with fuel economy ratings of 25 mpg combined for the E53 sedan and 18 mpg combined for the E63 sedan.

The 2021 Chrysler 300 offered a choice between a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine and a 5.7-liter V8 Hemi. The V6 engine delivered 292 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque in the 300 Touring and Touring L trims, while the 300S offered 300 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque. The V8 Hemi, available on the 300S, produced 363 hp and 394 lb-ft of torque, providing a unique option in its class. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with RWD as standard and AWD available as an option. The 300 offered a comfortable and capable driving experience, with the V8 providing an enjoyable launch despite not matching the performance of its Dodge Charger sibling.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured a redesigned infotainment system with a touchscreen interface, making everyday tasks more intuitive. The cabin was spacious, accommodating four adults comfortably, with ample headroom and legroom. The E-Class offered various body styles, including a sedan, coupe, convertible, and wagon, each with its own unique features. The sedan provided 13 cubic feet of trunk space, while the wagon offered up to 64 cubic feet with seats folded. Despite its luxurious interior, some features like rear USB ports and heated rear seats were not standard on all models.

The 2021 Chrysler 300 excelled in providing generous interior space, with 41.8 inches of front legroom and 40.1 inches in the rear. The 300 offered 106.3 cubic feet of passenger volume, surpassing competitors like the Genesis G70 and Lexus ES350. The trunk provided 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space, accommodating several large suitcases. The 300's interior was designed for comfort, with high-quality materials and a spacious layout that rivaled more expensive luxury sedans.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a touchscreen interface and natural voice processing. The system offered a range of features, including live camera feeds with overlay arrows for navigation, massaging seats, and seat kinetics. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, they were not wireless, and over-the-air updates were not available. The E-Class also offered advanced driving assists, capable of limited autonomous driving.

The 2021 Chrysler 300 featured the Uconnect 4C infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, known for its intuitive interface and functionality. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the system offered excellent steering wheel controls. The Popular Equipment Group added premium audio, navigation, and a dual-pane sunroof, enhancing the 300's technology offerings.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class received top safety ratings, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS. The E-Class offered innovative safety features, including Pre-Safe Sound and side bolster inflation during a collision. Standard safety features included forward automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options.

The 2021 Chrysler 300 received "Good" scores in most IIHS crash tests but scored "Marginal" in small overlap tests and "Poor" for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the 300 a four-star overall rating. The 300 offered a range of safety features, including active head restraints and traction control, but advanced safety equipment was only available on higher trims and packages.