@ BMW Group Press
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
VS

BMW 1 Series vs Mercedes CLA Coupe – Which model is better for everyday use?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: BMW 1 Series or Mercedes CLA Coupe?

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

1 Series @ BMW Group Press

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

BMW 1 Series has a clearly perceptible advantage in terms of price – it starts at 28800 £, while the Mercedes CLA Coupe costs 37100 £. That’s a price difference of around 8302 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Mercedes CLA Coupe manages with 2.30 L and is therefore significantly more efficient than the BMW 1 Series with 4.30 L. The difference is about 2 L per 100 km.

CLA Coupe @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes CLA Coupe has a evident edge – offering 421 HP compared to 300 HP. That’s roughly 121 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes CLA Coupe is slightly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.10 s, while the BMW 1 Series takes 4.90 s. That’s about 0.80 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Mercedes CLA Coupe performs barely noticeable better – reaching 270 km/h, while the BMW 1 Series tops out at 250 km/h. The difference is around 20 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes CLA Coupe pulls evident stronger with 515 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 115 Nm difference.

1 Series @ BMW Group Press

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, BMW 1 Series is slight lighter – 1465 kg compared to 1505 kg. The difference is around 40 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Mercedes CLA Coupe offers somewhat more room – 460 L compared to 380 L. That’s a difference of about 80 L.

When it comes to payload, BMW 1 Series hardly perceptible takes the win – 510 kg compared to 490 kg. That’s a difference of about 20 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Mercedes CLA Coupe proves to be is largely superior and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Mercedes CLA Coupe is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £37,100
CLA Coupe @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Mercedes CLA Coupe

  • Engine Type : Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol, Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 116 - 421 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.3 - 8.9 L
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 12.2 - 12.6 kWh
  • Electric Range : 86 - 791 km
details

BMW 1 Series

5 (1)
rate

The BMW 1 Series is a compact premium hatchback that injects a proper sense of driving fun into everyday life, with sharp handling and a cabin that punches above its class. It’s a great pick for buyers who want sporty manners without losing practicality, and yes, you’ll still get that unmistakable BMW grin behind the wheel.

details
P90460899_highRes_additional-pictures- @ BMW Group Press
P90460903_highRes_additional-pictures- @ BMW Group Press
P90460910_highRes_additional-pictures- @ BMW Group Press
P90460951_highRes_additional-pictures- @ BMW Group Press
P90460954_highRes_additional-pictures- @ BMW Group Press

Mercedes CLA Coupe

The Mercedes-Benz CLA Coupé exudes sophistication with its sleek, aerodynamic design that effortlessly combines elegance and sportiness. Inside, the cabin offers a luxurious experience, featuring high-quality materials and state-of-the-art technology that ensure both comfort and connectivity for the driver and passengers. On the road, the CLA Coupé delivers a dynamic driving performance, characterised by responsive handling and a smooth ride, making it a joy to drive both in the city and on long journeys.

details
19C0225_069 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
19C0225_068 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
19C0225_067 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
19C0225_044 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Top Car Comparisons

@ BMW Group Press
BMW 1 Series
@ BMW Group Press
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
VS
In the competitive landscape of premium compact cars, the BMW 1er Reihe and the BMW 2er Active Tourer showcase distinct strengths tailored to different driving needs. The 1er Reihe offers a sportier, more dynamic driving experience, emphasizing agility and performance, while the 2er Active Tourer …
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
Mercedes CLA Coupe
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VW ID.7
VS
In the latest comparison between the Mercedes CLA Coupé and the VW ID.7, traditional luxury meets cutting-edge innovation. The Mercedes CLA Coupé impresses with its sleek design and refined internal combustion power, appealing to driving purists. On the other hand, the VW ID.7 offers a glimpse into …
BMW 1 Series
Mercedes CLA Coupe
1 Series @ BMW Group Press
CLA Coupe @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Costs and Consumption
Price
28800 - 51100 £
Price
37100 - 73700 £
Consumption L/100km
4.3 - 7.6 L
Consumption L/100km
2.3 - 8.9 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
12.2 - 12.6 kWh
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
86 - 791 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
12.9 - 85 kWh
co2
112 - 173 g/km
co2
0 - 202 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
49 L
Fuel tank capacity
35 - 51 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Coupe
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
4
Curb weight
1465 - 1625 kg
Curb weight
1505 - 2135 kg
Trunk capacity
300 - 380 L
Trunk capacity
395 - 460 L
Length
4361 mm
Length
4692 - 4723 mm
Width
1800 mm
Width
1834 - 1857 mm
Height
1459 mm
Height
1404 - 1468 mm
Max trunk capacity
1135 - 1200 L
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
475 - 510 kg
Payload
440 - 490 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Diesel, Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, Petrol
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol, Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
Power HP
122 - 300 HP
Power HP
116 - 421 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.9 - 9.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.1 - 10 s
Max Speed
210 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
205 - 270 km/h
Torque
230 - 400 Nm
Torque
230 - 515 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
90 - 221 kW
Power kW
85 - 310 kW
Engine capacity
1499 - 1998 cm3
Engine capacity
1332 - 1991 cm3

General
Model Year
2024
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, C, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, D, E, G, A
Brand
BMW
Brand
Mercedes-Benz

Similar Comparisons

@ BMW Group Press
BMW 1 Series
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota Corolla
VS
The BMW 1 Series and Toyota Corolla compete for the top spot in your garage. See how both models differ in key areas like performance, running costs, interior space and technology. A fast, clear comparison helps you pick the one that fits your needs best.
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
Mercedes CLA Coupe
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
Mercedes EQA
VS
In an electrifying matchup between the sleek Mercedes CLA Coupé and the innovative Mercedes EQA, drivers are offered a choice between potent gasoline dynamics and forward-thinking electric efficiency. The CLA Coupé enchants with its elegant design and turbocharged performance, tailored for driving …
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
Mercedes CLA Coupe
@ Polestar Automotive Holding
Polestar 4
VS
The Mercedes CLA Coupe and Polestar 4 compete for the top spot in your garage. See how both models differ in key areas like performance, running costs, interior space and technology. A fast, clear comparison helps you pick the one that fits your needs best.
@ BMW Group Press
BMW 1 Series
@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
Ford Puma
VS
In the realm of compact cars, the BMW 1 Series and Ford Puma offer a compelling comparison between luxury and practicality. While the BMW 1 Series boasts a refined interior and dynamic handling that appeals to driving enthusiasts, the Ford Puma impresses with its versatile design and efficient …
@ BMW Group Press
BMW 1 Series
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
Mercedes GLA
VS
Unsure whether the BMW 1 Series or the Mercedes GLA is the better match? Compare both models directly and discover differences in power, efficiency, comfort and value for money — all summarized in one easy view to support your decision.
@ BMW Group Press
BMW 1 Series
@ MINI / BMW Group Press
MINI Countryman
VS
In the battle between the BMW 1 Series and the MINI Countryman, drivers are treated to a fascinating contrast of style and functionality. The 1 Series offers a more traditional BMW experience with its sporty handling and premium interior, while the Countryman stands out with its distinctive design …
@ BMW Group Press
BMW 1 Series
@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
Ford Focus
VS
In the competitive arena of compact cars, the BMW 1 Series stands out with its premium feel, sporty handling, and advanced technology features that elevate the driving experience. In contrast, the Ford Focus delivers exceptional value with its practicality, user-friendly interface, and commendable …
@ BMW Group Press
BMW 1 Series
@ Lexus / Toyota Motor Corporation
Lexus LBX
VS
Unsure whether the BMW 1 Series or the Lexus LBX is the better match? Compare both models directly and discover differences in power, efficiency, comfort and value for money — all summarized in one easy view to support your decision.
What drive types are available for the BMW 1 Series?

The BMW 1 Series is offered with Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.