Randy,
I have no idea if the Mercedes is competitive. Part of every series, especially new ones, is the discovery of what does and does not work easily. The best way to determine if the Mercedes is competitive is to buy one and set it up. Setting up a car is 98% of the performance. Some cars are competitive right out of the box while others require some work to get to the same level. Cars that some have said were uncompetitive others have been able to get them to work. This is the only new series and I am looking forward to running it just because I find it fun and enjoyable to set up a new car and working to get the most out of it. Good luck with your Mercedes. Can’t wait to see it running on the track.