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 is the clear winner for buyers prioritizing driving dynamics, agility, and a more accessible entry price, delivering excellent sportiness for its value. However, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon takes the lead for those seeking ultimate luxury, a more spacious interior, and significantly higher performance options in its top trims.
#1#2
Price Comparison
Starting at260,000 SAR339,250 – 534,750 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 Value-Driven Sportiness

The BMW 3 Series offers an attractive entry point at 260,000 SAR, combining sporty Rear Wheel Drive handling with a respectable 184 hp engine and excellent fuel economy of 5.5 L/100km.

2

Top-Tier Luxury & Space

For unparalleled comfort and a more spacious cabin, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is superior. Its larger dimensions and 540 L trunk capacity provide a premium experience, ideal for longer journeys and families.

3

Ultimate Performance Enthusiasts

While both offer spirited drives, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon's higher trims boast up to 435 hp and a rapid 4.5-second acceleration, making it the choice for those who demand maximum power and speed.

4

Efficient Daily Commuting

The BMW 3 Series is the more economical choice for daily drives, thanks to its superior fuel efficiency of 5.5 L/100km. Its lighter weight and nimble handling also make it ideal for urban environments.

Pros & cons

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • More affordable starting price (260,000 SAR)
  • Superior fuel economy (5.5 L/100km)
  • Lighter kerb weight (1,450 kg)
  • Sportier Rear Wheel Drive handling
  • More compact for city driving

Cons

  • Smaller trunk capacity (480 L)
  • Less powerful engine options overall
  • No All Wheel Drive variant available
  • Fewer gears in transmission (8-speed)
  • Less interior space than E-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon

Pros

  • Higher performance engine options (up to 435 hp)
  • Larger trunk capacity (540 L)
  • More luxurious and spacious interior
  • Optional All Wheel Drive for enhanced traction
  • Advanced 9-speed automatic transmission

Cons

  • Significantly higher starting price (from 339,250 SAR)
  • Less fuel-efficient (5.9 L/100km minimum)
  • Heavier kerb weight (from 1,530 kg)
  • Base model acceleration is slower (7.7 s)
  • Larger footprint may be less agile in tight spaces

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The BMW 3 Series is significantly more affordable, starting at 260,000 SAR. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon begins at 339,250 SAR, making the 3 Series the better choice for buyers with a tighter budget looking for premium entry-level luxury.

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

While the base models offer similar power, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon provides superior overall performance with its higher-tier engine options, reaching up to 435 hp and achieving 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.5 seconds. The BMW 3 Series, with its maximum 184 hp, offers strong performance for its class but cannot match the E-Class's top-end power.

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

The BMW 3 Series is more fuel-efficient, boasting a consumption rate of 5.5 L/100km. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon's base model consumes 5.9 L/100km, with higher trims consuming even more. For better fuel economy, the 3 Series is the clear winner.

Which has a larger trunk, the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers a larger trunk capacity of 540 L, making it more practical for families or those needing extra cargo space. The BMW 3 Series has a respectable 480 L trunk, but it falls short compared to the E-Class.

Which is better for luxury and comfort: BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is generally considered better for luxury and comfort. Its larger dimensions, more refined interior, and higher-end features contribute to a more premium and comfortable experience, aligning with its positioning in a higher luxury segment. The 3 Series offers a sporty luxury feel, but the E-Class emphasizes opulence.