Another good comparo!
I was surprised when after reading the build up on page 1 and clicking page 2 to find Third Place: BMW.
"The C 300 had to make do with halogen lights (as opposed to HIDs), flat white paint, no satellite radio, a seven-speed automatic and no reverse parking sensors or camera." - All other things being equal I'd take the cash instead of this list of features.
Too bad the ATS wasn't in red; it would've completed your metaphor although black is second best.
I can see why in the ATS portion so much was devoted to the BMW comparison, but...you had a separate article to do that. For this comparo I would've like to see much more on how the ATS compared to the A4, especially when it ranked 2nd overall!
Mike, thanks for an excellent balanced review. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Still, I had to cringe a bit when I read for the second time (after the ATS review) "
it rang in at a very competitive $54,245 before destination charge". That's over $60k on the road which is serious cash to pay for a newcomer to the compact luixury field. If I count my own beans, that's a lot of risk to take and a lot of faith to put into a bailout company.
Based on this review, C300 would be my personal choice. I like Audi (had one some 16 years ago and loved it). It may have ranked best overall but for me this killed it:
"...The suspension is not the smoothest and was rated roughest of group. This doesn’t mean it is unlivable, but even in comfort mode the suspension is firmer than the other two; those looking for a buttery ride look elsewhere..."
The biggest surprise was BMW finishing last.
Mercedes seems to have hit a sweet spot by deleting the options I personally don't care about and allowing me to save some serious cash. I may give it serious consideration.