2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2023 Chrysler 300

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, available in coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon forms, truly stood out in terms of variety. No other model offered such a broad spectrum of body styles at the time. The sedans featured the E350 model designation with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while all variants were available as an E450 equipped with a turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine and Mercedes' EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid powertrain. Rear-wheel drive was standard, though 4Matic all-wheel drive was also an option.

For driving enthusiasts, the AMG-tuned E-Class variants were particularly enticing. Every version, except for the All-Terrain wagon, presented an AMG E53 model powered by a more robust version of the E450’s engine. This comprehensive range was consistently praised, except for the high-cost dimension which hadn’t really changed with the 2022 model.

The AMG E53 Cabriolet, evaluated at a base price of $85,400, offered an extraordinary appearance with matte-finish paint, premium leather, and carbon fiber trim. Its window sticker neared an astounding $110,000 loaded with options. This car catered to those looking to flaunt their wealth and provided an aesthetic feast, especially with features like AMG styling, larger wheels, a convertible top, and matte-blue paint that radiated an almost luminescent aura. Inside, the luxurious feel was further accentuated with bright, high-resolution digital displays, glow-in-the-dark air vents, Burmester speaker grilles, and soft leather upholstery.

In stark contrast, the 2023 Chrysler 300 was introduced back in 2005, and upon launch, many drew comparisons to the Bentley Arnage due to its round headlights, bold grille, blunt nose, and stately proportions. Even though the comparison might have required some imagination, the new 300’s significant departure from its predecessor, the 300M, provided it some immediate credibility.

Over the years, the Chrysler 300 underwent various renovations and enhancements, especially significant changes in 2011. However, it retained its essence, drawing a direct lineage to its original design. Despite its age, the Chrysler 300 continued to boast commendable styling, with every trim level available featuring a blacked-out appearance and large 20-inch wheels wrapped in performance tires. For 2023, it came in Touring, Touring L, 300S, and 300C trims.

The Chrysler 300 was relatively affordable, with prices ranging from $35,515 to $44,025 before an additional $1,595 destination charge, making it an attractive option for many. The 300C special edition, priced at $56,595, was evaluated with its full performance enhancements, presenting a bargain for its packed features. However, the interior quality didn’t live up to the luxurious promise suggested by its exterior; the premium Laguna leather and carbon-fiber trim added a premium touch, yet the overall cabin seemed to match its price and age, showing more wear than flair.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 model rocked a 3.0-liter turbo-six engine equipped with Mercedes' EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. This system employed a 48-volt electrical system and an integrated starter generator to enhance power output and efficiency. The AMG-tuned engine generated an impressive 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, maintaining peak performance throughout the rev range from 1,800 rpm to 6,100 rpm. Mercedes claimed it sprinted to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.

The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ variable AWD system seamlessly delivered the power to the road, offering multiple AMG Dynamic Select driving modes that adjusted the car’s persona as needed. The AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system, along with the optional 20-inch wheels on sticky summer performance tires, completed the setup.

The duality of the E53 was evident, functioning as both a serene cruiser and a performance powerhouse. The Cabriolet converted effortlessly from a relaxed ride along Malibu’s coastline to a dynamic driving machine navigating the twists and turns of Mulholland Highway. Despite the slight cowl shake over bumps due to the absence of a fixed roof, the E53 Cabriolet felt solid, sure-footed, and capable of thrilling performance excursions.

Conversely, the 2023 Chrysler 300C revived the spirit of the 300 SRT with a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine, producing 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. This powerplant was mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission featuring a Sport mode and paddle shifters. Chrysler claimed a 4.3-second 0-60 mph sprint, and the 300C reached an impressive top speed of 160 mph.

The 300C came with an active exhaust system, adaptive damping suspension, Brembo performance brakes, and performance tires on lightweight forged aluminum wheels. The driving modes—Auto, Sport, and Track—allowed for a personalized driving experience, making the 300C an engaging drive.

However, the powerful rear-wheel-drive setup required careful handling as the rear tires struggled for grip during hard acceleration, particularly evident in Sport or Track mode. On Mulholland Highway, Sport mode profoundly altered the 300C’s demeanor, making it an enjoyable yet sometimes unpredictable ride. The inherent Germanic ride and handling characteristics hinted at its mid-1990s Mercedes-Benz E-Class roots, offering a nostalgic yet dynamic driving experience.

The Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet excelled as a true four-seater convertible, offering ample comfort for adults in every seat. The Aircap system minimized turbulence in the cabin with the top down, while special attention was given to the driver and front passenger’s comfort. Standard features included heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and the Airscarf neck-warming system. The ventilated front seats, multi-contour seats with massage, and Air Balance interior fragrance system ensured a luxe experience. The triple-layer acoustic soft top contributed to a quiet and cool cabin. However, trunk space was limited to 9.5 cubic feet with the top up and significantly reduced when the top was down.

In comparison, the Chrysler 300 felt like a full-size car only in the front seats where power adjustments, heating, and ventilation were available thanks to the premium Laguna leather. The rear seats were less comfortable, with limited legroom and a slouched seating position exacerbated by hard plastic front seatbacks. Despite having essentials like air conditioning vents, heated outboard cushions, and charging ports in the rear, the 300C’s storage solutions were dated and lacking. The trunk space, however, was generous at 16.3 cubic feet, complete with enclosed lid hinges to protect cargo.

No car company perfected digital instrumentation and infotainment like Mercedes-Benz. The MBUX system, with its dual 12.3-inch screens, offered a sophisticated and user-friendly interface, adaptable through touchscreen, voice commands, and physical controls. Features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, WiFi service, augmented reality navigation, and a Burmester surround-sound system elevated the digital experience.

On the other hand, the Chrysler 300 lagged with its Uconnect system boasting an 8.4-inch touchscreen and dated graphics. Despite this, Uconnect ensured easy navigation and basic functionality with features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and an SRT Dashboard for performance tracking. The 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system pleased the ears, though making adjustments required delving into on-screen menus. The 300 lacked more advanced features like a surround-view camera and sophisticated adaptive cruise control, showing its age.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class included a comprehensive suite of standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. The Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound systems prepared the cabin and occupants for potential collisions. Additional features in the Driver Assistance Package, such as adaptive cruise control and Active Steering Assist, enhanced overall safety.

The Chrysler 300 didn’t fare as well in the safety department, with advanced safety features only standard on the fully loaded 300C. Optional Safety Tec Plus Group features, including forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist, were helpful but not as sophisticated. The adaptive cruise control lacked the finesse of its Mercedes counterpart, and the Chrysler’s dated crash-test ratings reflected its older design without tangible updates to meet newer safety standards.