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 wins for drivers prioritizing an engaging, sporty experience coupled with excellent value in the premium sedan segment. However, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is the superior choice for those seeking ultimate luxury, a more commanding presence, and higher-tier performance options, provided their budget allows.
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Price Comparison
Starting at230,000 – 270,250 SAR359,000 – 603,820 SAR
Engine & Power
Engine1,998 cc · 4 cyl1,991 – 2,999 cc · 4 – 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)184 – 258 hp184 – 435 hp
Torque (Nm)300 – 400 Nm300 – 520 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)5.8 – 7.1 s4.5 – 7.7 s
Top Speed (Km/h)240 – 250 km/h240 – 250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)5.5 – 5.8 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—28.6 kWh
Battery Range (km)—100 km
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 – 1,545 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 Value & Sporty Drive

Choose the BMW 3 Series for its more accessible starting price of 230,000 SAR and its renowned engaging Rear Wheel Drive dynamics that make every drive exciting.

2

Ultimate Luxury & Space

Opt for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon if you desire a more opulent interior and superior cargo capacity with its 540 L trunk, justifying its higher price point.

3

Fuel Efficiency

The BMW 3 Series is the better choice for fuel economy, achieving as low as 5.5 L/100km, making it more economical for daily commutes and long journeys.

4

High-Performance & AWD

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers more powerful engine options, reaching up to 435 hp, and the availability of All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and performance.

Pros & cons

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • Lower starting price (230,000 SAR)
  • Superior fuel efficiency (5.5 L/100km)
  • Lighter kerb weight (1,450 kg)
  • Sportier Rear-Wheel Drive setup
  • Quicker top-end acceleration (5.8 s)

Cons

  • Smaller trunk capacity (480 L)
  • No All-Wheel Drive option
  • Lower maximum horsepower (258 hp)
  • Fewer gears (8-speed automatic)

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon

Pros

  • Higher maximum power output (435 hp)
  • Larger trunk capacity (540 L)
  • Available All-Wheel Drive
  • More advanced 9-speed transmission
  • Broader engine displacement options (up to 2,999 cc)

Cons

  • Significantly higher starting price (359,000 SAR)
  • Lower fuel efficiency (up to 8.7 L/100km)
  • Heavier kerb weight (up to 1,765 kg)
  • Slower base acceleration (7.7 s)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon better value for money?

The BMW 3 Series offers significantly better value for money, with a starting price of 230,000 SAR compared to the E-Class Saloon's 359,000 SAR. While both are luxury sedans, the 3 Series provides a compelling blend of performance and luxury at a more accessible price point. If budget is a key concern, the 3 Series is the clear winner.

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

For sheer top-end performance, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon takes the lead, offering up to 435 hp and an acceleration of 4.5 seconds in its higher trims. The BMW 3 Series is no slouch, with models reaching 258 hp and 0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds, offering a sportier feel. However, if ultimate power and speed are your priority, the E-Class Saloon's top-tier engines deliver more.

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

The BMW 3 Series is generally more fuel-efficient, with a combined fuel economy as low as 5.5 L/100km. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon's fuel economy ranges from 5.9 to 8.7 L/100km, with its higher-powered engines consuming more. For daily driving and long-term running costs, the 3 Series offers better fuel economy.

Which car has more trunk space, the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers more trunk space with 540 liters, compared to the BMW 3 Series' 480 liters. If cargo capacity for family trips or larger shopping hauls is a priority, the E-Class Saloon provides a more generous boot.

Should I choose the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon for a luxurious driving experience?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon generally offers a more luxurious and refined driving experience, reflected in its higher price point and larger dimensions. While the BMW 3 Series provides a premium feel with a focus on sportiness, the E-Class often excels in ride comfort, interior opulence, and advanced features. For an executive-level luxury experience, the E-Class Saloon is the superior choice.