Autoguide compares the new 2014 BMW M235i against the 2014 Mercedes Benz CLA 45 AMG. BMW and Mercedes-Benz have been rattling their swords at each other for decades in every single section of the market, and this year with the launch of the M235i, they are fighting over a different territory. While not a apple-to-apples comparison, the M235i against the CLA 45 AMG is more logical than it first seems, despite the RWD vs AWD.
The high-selling four-door coupe CLA A45 AMG is powered by a 2.0 liter four-cylinder pumping out an impressive 355 hp and 332 ft-lbs of torque. 0-60 time is just 4.5 seconds. This motor is rated at 178 hp per liter and Mercedes states that this is the most powerful four-cylinder production engine.
BMW M235i, latest addition to the M Performance Automobiles family, which uses a 3.0 liter turbocharged six-inline producing 322 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. The M235i is capable of 0-60 in 4.8 seconds when optioned with the 8-speed sport automatic. Mercedes’ CLA 45 AMG starts at $47,450 (sans destination and handling) and BMW M235i is kicking off at $43,100 (without D&H).
The CLA 45 AMG tested costs $55,925 while the M235i was priced at $51,600. Which one it’s a better buy? Let’s find out.
