The C class is no doubt a safer, and a more technologically advanced car, and will hold its value really well. The Caddy on the other hand has more emotion into it, and in a straight line is better than the Merc. (If you bring the AMG, I am also entitled to the CTS-V), but with GM's current condition, I will have doubts about its build quality and reliability. Frankly the Merc is a more sane, or a rational choice.