If you’re in the market for a used luxury car, then chances are that you have considered buying a Mercedes-Benz, and we wouldn’t blame you. Mercedes has always been at the forefront of everyone’s minds when it comes to the thought of luxury, and thanks to entry-level models like the C-Class, just about anyone can get into one.

Especially if you’re banking on depreciation, in that case, you can get into something as new as a 2017 Mercedes-Benz C300 for the price of a new Honda Civic. And for that kind of money and that kind of car, there’s no substitute for affordable opulence.

The Mercedes-Benz C300 provides all of the comfort you need

The beauty of luxury-car depreciation lies in the fact that you can get into a car that used to cost $45,000 and buy it for $25,000 three years later. As is the case for a 2017 Mercedes-Benz C300 sedan. And before you go on and think of the C-Class as your run-of-the-mill starter luxury car (it is), may we remind you that the Mercedes CLA actually took that title during that same year, which means that you’ll be a getting a model that’s one step above the starter car.

And at that level, you can enjoy the standard features that the C300 has to offer like dual-zone climate control, a push-button start, MB-Tex leatherette seating surface, and a touch-pad interface infotainment system. An upgraded Burmeister premium audio system is also available, so we recommend finding on with that option if you’re an audiophile like us. And lastly, the C300 was available in a coupe or sedan form, so the amount of space you need is up to you as both cars offer the same elegant styling and amenities both inside and out.

The Mercedes C300 has the comfort and sportiness you’re looking for

Aside from the comfort aspect of the C300, it’s worth it to know that the small Mercedes is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, which is potent enough for the daily drive. Cars.com noted a 0-60 time of 5.9 seconds, which is not slow, but it’s by no means super quick. They also noted that the C300 is “spritely and agile” around town and never uncomfortable.

The editors at KBB backed up that thought, stating that the 2017 C300 has a nimble suspension, however, there’s not as much feedback through the steering wheel like you would get in a BMW 3 Series or Cadillac ATS. That’s no worry, though, as, with a Mercedes-Benz, it’s comfort and luxury that you’re seeking, not all-out athleticism.

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz C300 provides everything you need at a fair price

As we can see, the 2017 Mercedes C300 is near an entry-level compact car that can outshine anything in the same price bracket in the new-car market while providing the comfort and power that you’re looking for to spice up your daily drive. So why buy a new Honda Civic when you get affordable luxury for the same price?