The 2011 C-Class Mercedes-Benz lineup offers a variety of models, but the C350 stands out as a compelling choice for those seeking a balance of performance and luxury. Positioned above the C300 and below the high-performance C63 AMG, the 2011 C350 Mercedes-Benz delivers a significant step up in power and standard features compared to its sibling, the C300. While both C300 models offer 4Matic all-wheel drive and share the same engine family, they diverge in several key areas including exterior styling, interior trim, suspension tuning, front seat design, and the standard transmission. However, the 2011 C350 Mercedes-Benz distinguishes itself with a more powerful engine and a richer set of standard equipment.
Both C300 models come equipped with a solid base of features, including 17-inch wheels with distinct designs, a sunroof, automatic headlights, cruise control, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Inside, you’ll find a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, eight-way power front seats, and vinyl upholstery. Technology features include Bluetooth connectivity and an eight-speaker stereo system with a CD player, auxiliary audio jack, and a pop-up 5-inch display screen.
Stepping up to the Premium I package, which is essentially standard on the 2011 C350 Mercedes-Benz Sport, adds a host of desirable upgrades. These include auto-dimming mirrors, a 10-way power driver seat with power lumbar support and memory functions, a power-adjustable steering wheel, automatic wipers, heated front seats, satellite radio, a power rear sunshade, and a practical split-folding rear seat. For enhanced visibility, the lighting package adds active xenon headlights with washers, LED running lights (standard on the Sport version of the C300 and C350) and LED taillights, further elevating the sophisticated appearance of the 2011 C350 Mercedes-Benz.
The 2011 C350 Sport essentially builds upon the C300 Sport by incorporating the Premium I package as standard and, crucially, upgrading to a more potent V6 engine. Furthermore, the C350 Sport boasts distinctive black bird’s-eye maple wood trim, adding a touch of sporty elegance to the interior. For those seeking ultimate performance, the C63 AMG sits at the top of the range. It shares a similar equipment level but dramatically increases performance with a robust V8 engine, a firmer sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, 18-inch wheels, and unique AMG interior and exterior styling cues. Inside, the C63 AMG features leather AMG sport seats and aluminum paddle shifters, emphasizing its high-performance nature.
Further enhancing the technology and convenience of the 2011 C350 Mercedes-Benz, the optional Multimedia package offers a significant upgrade. This package includes the COMAND electronics interface, a hard-drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic updates, a six-CD changer, an iPod interface, 6GB of digital music storage, and a larger pop-up display for improved usability. For those prioritizing seating comfort and customization, the AMG Seating package (available on the C63 and potentially as a standalone option or within other packages for the C350 depending on specific configurations) adds front memory seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and upgraded leather upholstery. For the truly performance-focused C63 AMG buyer, the AMG Development package takes performance even further with an additional 30 horsepower, upgraded brakes, a limited-slip differential, a track-calibrated suspension, a higher top speed, and a leather/faux suede steering wheel.
For the 2011 model year, Mercedes-Benz introduced a new prepaid maintenance option (excluding the C63 AMG), covering essential maintenance for 3 years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first. Standalone options for the 2011 C350 Mercedes-Benz include desirable features such as 18-inch wheels, a panorama sunroof (not available on the C63 AMG), a rearview camera (requiring the Multimedia package), luxurious leather upholstery, heated front seats, keyless ignition/entry, satellite radio, an iPod interface, and a premium Harman Kardon surround-sound stereo system. These options allowed buyers to further personalize their 2011 C350 Mercedes-Benz to match their individual preferences and needs.
In conclusion, the 2011 C350 Mercedes-Benz provides a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and available features, making it a strong contender in the used luxury car market. Its powerful V6 engine, combined with the standard inclusion of the Premium I package-level features, positions it as a more upscale and performance-oriented option compared to the base C300 models, while remaining more accessible than the high-performance C63 AMG. For buyers seeking a sophisticated and enjoyable driving experience, the 2011 C350 Mercedes-Benz is definitely worth considering.
