I have owned both. I really like both. I did sell my C4D R10 license because I needed $$$, so I use Maya exclusively now. But I can only say good things about C4D.

Maya, however, is just sheer power. That is why it is the industry workhorse and standard, especially for FX and 3D animated features. Plus, with Maya, you get Fluid simulation and PaintEffects as well. For motion graphics (like broadcast animation), C4D is the best 3D app out there…

Plus with C4D you get BodyPaint, which is very powerful… However, you *can* “paint” and “sculpt” in Maya in a limited fashion…

I have to admit: C4D *feels* more solid, in some instances, but really, I haven’t had very many problems with Maya, either. Maya’s node-based engine and MEL scripting language mean just about infinite capabilities in the hands of pros. Which is why most major studios use it.

I don’t think you could go wrong either way.  If it were a toss-up, however, and I had to choose: I personally would go with Maya.