E46 vs W203 vs B6: Compact Luxury Sedans of the 2000s
Three Rivals, One Class
In the early 2000s, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi fought fiercely for supremacy in the compact premium segment. The BMW E46 (1997-2006), Mercedes W203 C-Class (2000-2007), and Audi B6 A4 (2000-2006) were the main contenders. Today, all three are available as used cars at attractive prices — but which one offers the best overall package?
Price Comparison at a Glance
| Metric | BMW E46 | Mercedes W203 | Audi B6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average price | €15,828 | €4,507 | €3,331 |
| Minimum | €1,200 | €1,200 | €1,399 |
| Maximum | €520,000 | €11,870 | €9,850 |
| Listings | 65 | 38 | 30 |
| Avg. mileage | 181,682 km | 182,781 km | 240,735 km |
Note: The high E46 average is skewed upward by rare M3 examples and collector pieces. Typical E46 sedans without the M badge realistically sit much closer to €5,000-8,000.
Technical Overview
Engine Lineup
| Segment | BMW E46 | Mercedes W203 | Audi B6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry petrol | 316i (115 hp) | C180 (129 hp) | 1.6 (102 hp) |
| Mid petrol | 320i (170 hp) | C200K (163 hp) | 2.0 (130 hp) |
| Top petrol | 330i (231 hp) | C320 (218 hp) | 3.0 (220 hp) |
| Entry diesel | 318d (115 hp) | C200 CDI (122 hp) | 1.9 TDI (130 hp) |
| Top diesel | 330d (204 hp) | C270 CDI (170 hp) | 2.5 TDI (163 hp) |
Drivetrain Philosophy
- BMW E46: Rear-wheel drive (xi = all-wheel drive). Longitudinal engine, sport-oriented setup.
- Mercedes W203: Rear-wheel drive. Comfort-focused tuning, reliable automatic transmission.
- Audi B6: Front-wheel drive (quattro = all-wheel drive). Longitudinal engine, excellent traction.
What You Get for Your Money
Under €3,000
The Audi B6 leads this bracket — you can find high-mileage examples that are still functional. The W203 C-Class also offers entry-level models here. For E46s in this range, expect significant deferred maintenance.
€3,000-6,000
This is W203 and B6 territory. Well-maintained examples of both brands with acceptable mileage are available. For the E46, this range gets you solid base models like the 316i or 318i.
€6,000-10,000
The E46 becomes compelling here: well-kept 320i and 325i examples are within reach. The W203 offers fully loaded cars at this price, while the B6 delivers the best available specimens.
Strengths and Weaknesses
BMW E46
Strengths:
- Outstanding driving dynamics thanks to rear-wheel drive
- Timeless design that still looks attractive 20 years on
- Huge community and excellent parts availability
- Strong value retention, especially M3 and 330i
- High-quality interior fit and finish
Weaknesses:
- Higher purchase prices than the competition
- Cooling system components prone to failure
- Rear trailing arm bushings are a known weak point
- Subframe cracking in neglected examples
Mercedes W203
Strengths:
- Lowest entry price among the three rivals
- Robust CDI diesel engines with long-term potential
- Solid automatic transmissions
- Good comfort and sound insulation
Weaknesses:
- Rust susceptibility, especially around wheel arches
- Reduced material quality compared to predecessor W202
- Less sporty than BMW and Audi
- Lower appreciation among enthusiast communities
Audi B6
Strengths:
- Cheapest average price of all three models
- Quattro all-wheel drive option for winter capability
- Modern, clean interior design
- Good interior space for the class
Weaknesses:
- Highest average mileage (240,735 km)
- Oil consumption in older turbo engines
- Front-wheel drive base version less dynamic
- Timing chain on some engines requires attention
Who Should Buy Which?
The E46 — For the Driving Enthusiast
If driving dynamics come first, the E46 is unbeatable. Rear-wheel drive, precise steering, and balanced weight distribution make it the driver’s car of this trio. Those willing to invest more will get a car that holds its value over time.
The W203 — For the Pragmatist
The C-Class is the sensible choice: affordable to buy, economical as a diesel, and comfortable on long journeys. If you want a reliable daily driver and can forgo sporty ambitions, the W203 is hard to fault.
The B6 — For the Budget-Conscious
With the lowest average price of just €3,331, the Audi B6 is the price champion. Add the quattro all-wheel drive, and you get a winter-ready package. The B6 is the rational choice for anyone seeking premium at the smallest price.
Our Verdict
All three cars have their merits — the right choice depends on your priorities.
| Priority | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Driving fun | BMW E46 |
| Lowest price | Audi B6 |
| Comfort | Mercedes W203 |
| Winter capability | Audi B6 quattro |
| Value stability | BMW E46 |
| Economy | Mercedes W203 CDI |
The BMW E46 wins on driving pleasure and investment potential. The Mercedes W203 convinces as the rational purchase. The Audi B6 is the insider tip for budget-conscious buyers.
Regardless of your choice, one rule applies: buy the best example your budget allows. A well-maintained B6 is always better than a neglected E46.
Price data based on our current market analysis (as of March 2026). Detailed model information: BMW E46 | Mercedes W203 | Audi B6