The age of the electric car is in full swing. New models with electric powertrains are being released every year, and most automakers are embracing electrification across their lineups as they reinvent themselves and future-proof their offerings.BMW and Mercedes-Benz, two of the biggest car companies on the planet, are grabbing the opportunities provided by electrification with both hands. They recently released two new models with all-electric powertrains on board: BMW has the new i3, while Mercedes has the new C-Class. Both models have plenty to be excited about, such as state-of-the-art technology and shiny new design elements.We are comparing these models side by side across a variety of metrics, from looks to specs to tech. The Mercedes may be slightly more powerful than the BMW, but is it better on other fronts as well, or does the i3 gain the upper hand?The i3 and the C-Class EV are not available at dealers yet. This story uses the available information from the respective automakers. Design: New, Exciting, Electric BMWElectric vehicle design has evolved a lot over the past decade, and both the new i3 and the new electric C-Class are a testament to the fact that automakers have found their groove when it comes to making their EVs look interesting. Gone are the days when electric cars looked frumpy or boring, focusing solely on the “green” element of their character: these two models both have a fun, sporty vibe that lets them compete with their combustion counterparts.The BMW i3 blends traditional elements that make it instantly recognizable as a member of the 3 Series family with fresher, newer ones that keep it innovative and dynamic. The car has a long wheelbase and a sleek, sporty silhouette; the front end features twin headlights that seamlessly blend into the grille, forming a single element. At the rear of the car, we find narrow horizontal taillights that create a high-tech, futuristic feel.BMW wants to make sure that, despite being an electric car, the i3 still retains an aggressive, sporty stance. The flared wheel arches help give it that kind of personality, adding a little muscle into the mix.Mercedes-Benz Over in the Mercedes camp, the new C-Class blends elements of the sedan and the coupe in its silhouette, with a flowing, rounded rear and a sleek profile. The flared wheel arches complete the look, creating a car that doesn’t just evoke the idea of speed and smoothness, but power too. The final result is a car that is unmistakably a Mercedes but also has its own personality.The grille has a wide chrome frame paired with a mesh structure inspired by the look of smoked glass. While still connected visually to Mercedes’ grille designs of the past, it adds a new, futuristic element that reminds us of the car’s all-electric character. The grille is surrounded by illuminated elements that come alive with animation when the vehicle is opened, closed, or charging. The headlights complete the front end by blending into the grille with an innovative star shape. Powertrain: Green But Not Boring BMWThe i3 is powered by two electric motors, one located at the front axle and one at the rear. Their combined output is 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered to all four wheels. As a member of the Neue Klasse family, the model is equipped with a new EV dynamics system BMW has called “Heart of Joy”. This system gauges inputs in acceleration and steering to optimize power delivery, creating driving dynamics that are quick and responsive in keeping with the brand’s “ultimate driving machine” ethos.The system also uses brake regeneration, redirecting recovered power in the appropriate direction depending on brake usage and cornering speeds. This technology also helps the i3 stop smoothly during city driving.Mercedes-Benz For the C-Class lineup, it is set to be expanded in the near future. For the time being, the model has been launched with its range-topping variant: the C 400 4MATIC. This model can reach 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds and is equipped with two electric motors. There's a main unit on the rear axle and a second unit located on the front axle, producing a total of 482 hp.The front motor acts as a “boost”, which is activated and deactivated based on the driving situation and the selected driving mode. When power demand is low, this motor disengages almost instantly, reducing waste and dramatically improving efficiency and range. An innovative two-speed transmission that provides both performance and improved efficiency.Soon, the C 400 4MATIC will be joined by other members of the lineup, including rear-wheel-drive versions. These models will be powered by a single electric motor located on the rear axle. Charging And Range BMWThe i3 offers a range of up to 440 miles, making it an ideal choice for long-distance road trip enthusiasts who don’t want to schedule a charging stop. If you do find yourself needing some extra juice when behind the wheel of the i3, however, you’d be pleased to find you can get up to 249 miles of range with a 10-minute charging session. The timing is ideal when you’re on a long journey or simply having a busy day, and can’t quite fit in a whole charging session. The model is also equipped with bidirectional charging and a NACS charging port, which allows it to use Tesla’s Supercharger network.The C-Class, meanwhile, has a range of up to 473 miles. It also has the capability to charge to a substantial driving range in just 10 minutes, albeit slightly less than the i3 (around 202 miles). Interior and Tech BMWThe i3’s cabin is spacious and inviting, with heaps of state-of-the-art tech on board to enhance the driving experience. The infotainment system, BMW Panoramic iDrive, is controlled via a 17.9-inch touchscreen, which includes controls for features such as climate, music streaming, and vehicle systems. It can also be customized to fit the driver’s preferences, so the most useful features can be accessed quickly and easily.The interior also keeps one eye towards sustainability, with its extensive use of recycled materials. For example, the Econeer seat covers available as part of the “Essential” equipment line are made from a recyclable textile composite using 100% recycled plastic.The C-Class’s cabin offers a high-tech experience focused on comfort, with slightly less emphasis on sportiness. A “Welcome” sequence helps enhance occupants’ sensory experience from the moment they step into the vehicle, with MBUX animations and ambient lighting creating a cozy, welcoming environment.Mercedes-Benz There is also plenty of room to stretch out, thanks to a wheelbase that’s 3.8 inches longer than that of the hybrid C-Class sedan. As a result, occupants in the front seats get to enjoy an extra 0.47 inch of legroom. Both the front and rear seats also get additional headroom, benefiting taller passengers. The panoramic roof helps create the illusion of a large open space, and is equipped with an optional Sky Control function. This allows each individual passenger to regulate the opacity of the roof section above them. Cargo space is also abundant, with nearly 17 cubic feet of space in the trunk. Which Model Is The Winner? BMW Until we drive these vehicles, we can't know which is better from behind the wheel. Plus, it generally takes years for a model to be on sale before we have a full idea of its reliability. The situation means that we can't yet say which of them is actually the superior car.It’s a very tough choice. Both models have heaps of interesting features on board, and they certainly are no slouch in terms of power output. Each plays to its manufacturer’s respective strengths: the i3 focuses on driver engagement and a dynamic driving experience, while the C-Class focuses on comfort and luxury thanks to its plush, high-tech cabin.BMW We, however, think the i3 takes the crown at this stage. Its design evokes classic BMWs from decades past while remaining fresh and exciting. The power output may be slightly lower, but thanks to the Heart of Joy system, it delivers that power in the most efficient way possible to guarantee a fun and engaging driving experience.The i3 does a fantastic job of showcasing the possibilities of the Neue Klasse family, and we can’t wait for it to hit dealerships in a few months’ time.Sources: BMW, Mercedes-Benz