BMW 3 Series vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon: Which Should You Buy in KSA?

A complete comparison of the ⁦BMW 3 Series⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across KSA.

⁦BMW 3 Series⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon⁩: the verdict

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon generally wins for shoppers prioritizing luxury, comfort, and spaciousness, offering a more refined experience and a larger boot. However, the BMW 3 Series stands out for its sharper driving dynamics, better fuel efficiency, and a more accessible entry price, making it ideal for enthusiasts seeking an agile daily driver.
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Price Comparison
Starting at260,000 SAR0 – 509,000 SAR
Engine & Power
Engine1,998 cc · 4 cyl1,991 – 2,999 cc · 4 – 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)184 hp184 – 435 hp
Torque (Nm)300 Nm300 – 520 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)7.1 s4.5 – 7.7 s
Top Speed (Km/h)240 km/h240 – 250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)5.5 L/100km5.9 – 8.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity60 L50 – 66 L
Gears89
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeRear Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.7 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m4.9 m × 1.9 m × 1.5 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.9 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,450 kg1,530 – 1,765 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)480 L540 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringAdaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCompassCool boxCornering LightsCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHDDHDMIHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsLegroomLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeatbelt pretensionerSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic Front WindshieldActive HeadrestsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAppsAttention AssistAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothCargo Area LightCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerIntelligent KeyiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLane Departure WarningLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMoving Object Detection SystemMP3Multi-Information DisplayNavigation SystemOdometerParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRemote StartRoad Sign AssistScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSpeed LimiterSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Ventilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Driving Enthusiasts

The BMW 3 Series offers a more engaging and sporty driving experience, thanks to its lighter kerb weight of 1,450 kg and responsive handling, making it the top choice for those who love to drive.

2

Best for Luxury and Comfort

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon excels in providing a more opulent and comfortable ride, with a premium interior and a smoother suspension, making it perfect for long journeys and executive travel.

3

Best for Practicality and Space

For families or those needing extra cargo room, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is the clear winner with its generous 540 L trunk capacity, significantly more than the 3 Series' 480 L.

4

Best for Fuel Efficiency

The BMW 3 Series takes the lead in fuel economy, offering an impressive 5.5 L/100km, which is better than the E-Class Saloon's 5.9 L/100km for its base engine, making it more economical to run.

Pros & cons

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • Superior fuel economy (5.5 L/100km)
  • Lighter kerb weight (1,450 kg)
  • More agile and sporty handling
  • More accessible starting price (260,000 SAR)

Cons

  • Lower maximum power output (184 hp)
  • Smaller boot space (480 L)
  • Less plush interior compared to E-Class
  • No All-Wheel Drive option

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon

Pros

  • Significantly higher maximum power (435 hp)
  • Larger trunk capacity (540 L)
  • More luxurious and refined interior
  • Optional All-Wheel Drive system
  • Higher top speed (250 km/h)

Cons

  • Higher entry price for comparable luxury
  • Heavier kerb weight (starting at 1,530 kg)
  • Lower fuel economy for base models (5.9 L/100km)
  • Less nimble feel in spirited driving

Frequently Asked Questions

Which car offers better performance, the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

For sheer maximum power and acceleration, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon clearly wins, with its top trims reaching 435 hp and accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. The BMW 3 Series, while agile with 184 hp, cannot match the E-Class's high-end performance. If ultimate speed and power are your priority, opt for a higher-trim E-Class.

Is the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon more luxurious?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is generally considered the more luxurious vehicle, offering a more refined cabin, superior materials, and advanced comfort features. While the BMW 3 Series provides a premium experience, the E-Class leans more towards executive comfort and opulence. For a truly luxurious feel, the E-Class is the better choice.

Which is more practical for families, the BMW 3 Series or E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers greater practicality for families, primarily due to its larger trunk capacity of 540 L, compared to the BMW 3 Series' 480 L. This extra space makes a significant difference for strollers, luggage, or groceries. Its slightly larger dimensions also contribute to a more spacious rear cabin for passengers.

Which car is more fuel-efficient, the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The BMW 3 Series is more fuel-efficient, with its base model achieving 5.5 L/100km. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon's base engine starts at 5.9 L/100km, and its higher-performance trims consume even more fuel. For drivers prioritizing lower running costs and better fuel economy, the BMW 3 Series is the superior option.