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 BMW 3 Series emerges as the winner for buyers prioritizing driving dynamics, value, and fuel efficiency in KSA. Its sharper handling and lower starting price of 222,200 SAR make it an attractive option. However, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers superior luxury, a larger trunk, and more powerful engine options, albeit at a significantly higher price point starting from 329,242 SAR.
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Price Comparison
Starting at222,200 SAR329,242 – 397,461 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
Battery Size—1 kWh
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 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 GrilleClimate ControlCollision 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, with its lighter kerb weight of 1,450 kg and Rear Wheel Drive setup, delivers a more engaging and agile driving experience, making it ideal for those who love to drive.

2

Best for Luxury and Space

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers a more luxurious cabin and a significantly larger trunk capacity of 540 L, making it the preferred choice for those seeking comfort and practicality.

3

Best for Value and Efficiency

With a starting price of 222,200 SAR and impressive fuel economy of 5.5 L/100km, the BMW 3 Series is the clear winner for budget-conscious buyers seeking premium performance.

4

Best for Power and Refinement

For drivers desiring robust performance and advanced engineering, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers engine options up to 435 hp and a sophisticated 9-speed transmission.

Pros & cons

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • More accessible starting price (222,200 SAR)
  • Superior fuel efficiency (5.5 L/100km)
  • Lighter kerb weight (1,450 kg) for agile handling
  • Quicker acceleration (7.1 seconds 0-100 km/h)
  • Engaging Rear Wheel Drive dynamics

Cons

  • Smaller trunk space (480 L)
  • Lower maximum power output (184 hp)
  • No All-Wheel Drive option
  • Less advanced 8-speed transmission

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon

Pros

  • Significantly larger trunk capacity (540 L)
  • Higher maximum power output (up to 435 hp)
  • More advanced 9-speed automatic transmission
  • Available All-Wheel Drive options
  • Larger fuel tank capacity (up to 66 L)

Cons

  • Considerably higher starting price (329,242 SAR)
  • Lower base fuel efficiency (5.9 L/100km)
  • Heavier kerb weight (minimum 1,530 kg)
  • Slower base acceleration (7.7 seconds 0-100 km/h)

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The BMW 3 Series is significantly more affordable, starting at 222,200 SAR compared to the E-Class Saloon's starting price of 329,242 SAR. For buyers prioritizing budget without compromising on premium driving dynamics, the 3 Series offers excellent value.

Which car, the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon, has better fuel economy?

The BMW 3 Series offers better fuel economy, achieving 5.5 L/100km, while the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon starts at 5.9 L/100km. If fuel efficiency is a top priority for your daily commute in KSA, the 3 Series is the more economical choice.

Which is better for trunk space, the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers superior trunk space with 540 L, compared to the BMW 3 Series' 480 L. For those needing more cargo capacity for family trips or luggage, the E-Class Saloon is the clear winner.

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

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers significantly more powerful engine options, with its top trim reaching 435 hp, compared to the BMW 3 Series' maximum of 184 hp. Performance enthusiasts seeking higher horsepower will find the E-Class Saloon more appealing.

Is the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon better for sporty driving?

The BMW 3 Series is generally considered better for sporty driving due to its lighter kerb weight of 1,450 kg and Rear Wheel Drive focus, contributing to a more agile and engaging experience. While the E-Class offers powerful engines, the 3 Series emphasizes a dynamic connection to the road.