2023
See BMW 3 Series for saleBMW 3 Series
From SAR 222,200
BMW 3 Series vs Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Which Should You Buy in KSA?
A complete comparison of the BMW 3 Series VS Mercedes-Benz S-Class — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across KSA.
2023
See Mercedes-Benz S-Class for saleMercedes-Benz S-Class
BMW 3 Series VS Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the verdict
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class ultimately wins for buyers seeking the pinnacle of luxury, performance, and advanced technology. However, the BMW 3 Series offers an unbeatable combination of sporty driving dynamics, premium features, and impressive fuel efficiency at a significantly more accessible price point, making it a strong choice for daily driving.
| #1 BMW 3 Series#1 | #2 Mercedes-Benz S-Class#2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price Comparison | ||
| Starting at | 222,200 SAR | 724,500 – 968,128 SAR |
| Engine & Power | ||
| Engine | 1,998 cc · 4 cyl | 2,999 – 3,982 cc · 6 – 8 cyl |
| Horsepower (bhp) | 184 hp | 367 – 503 hp |
| Torque (Nm) | 300 Nm | 500 – 700 Nm |
| Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec) | 7.1 s | 4.4 – 5.1 s |
| Top Speed (Km/h) | 240 km/h | 250 km/h |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 Km) | 5.5 L/100km | 7.8 – 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 – 80 L |
| Gears | 8 | 9 |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Drive Type | Rear Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Measurements | ||
| L×W×H | 4.7 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m | 5.3 / 5.3 m × 1.9 / 1.9 / 2.1 m × 1.5 / 1.5 m |
| Wheelbase (meters) | 2.9 m | 3.1 / 3.2 / 3.2 m |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1,450 kg | 1,940 – 2,115 kg |
| Trunk Capacity (liters) | 480 L | 530 – 550 L |
| Overview | ||
| Body Style | Sedan | Sedan |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Doors | 4 doors | 4 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 Socket360 Camera360-Degree Camera360-Degree Camera4WD Rotary Mode SwitchABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic Front WindshieldAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive BrakeAdaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAshtrayAttention AssistAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBrake CalipersBrembo BrakesBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCompassConversation Mirror with Sunglasses HolderCool boxCornering assistCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDigital ClockDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDVDDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Anti-dazzling Room MirrorElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront BumperFront Seat ArmrestFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDDHDMIHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistIlluminated Door HandlesIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenIntelligent Emergency CallIntelligent KeyInternet ConnectivityiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomLive Traffic InformationLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMagnesium Paddle ShiftersMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresOverhead Console Sunglass HolderPaddle ShiftersPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRemote Windows DownRoad Sign AssistRoof RailsRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSD Card SupportSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSilver TrimSonarSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTonneau CoverToolkitTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTowing HookTraction ControlTrailer Hitch with CoverTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)Ventilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - ChromeWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim |
Which one should you buy?
1
Best for Ultimate Luxury
For those prioritizing unparalleled comfort, cutting-edge technology, and a commanding presence, the S-Class delivers a truly executive experience.
2
Best for Sporty Driving & Value
Drivers who crave a nimble, engaging ride and a premium badge without the S-Class's hefty price tag will find the 3 Series an excellent choice.
3
Best for Fuel Efficiency
With a fuel economy of 5.5 L/100km, the 3 Series is the clear winner for those looking to minimize trips to the fuel station in KSA.
4
Best for Passenger & Cargo Space
Its larger dimensions and trunk capacity of up to 550 L make it superior for accommodating passengers and luggage in supreme comfort.
Pros & cons
BMW 3 Series
Pros
- Significantly more affordable starting price
- Superior fuel efficiency (5.5 L/100km)
- Lighter kerb weight for agile handling
- Sporty Rear-Wheel Drive dynamics
- Compact size for easier city maneuvering
Cons
- Less powerful engine (184 hp)
- Slower acceleration (7.1 seconds)
- Smaller overall dimensions and trunk space
- Less luxurious and prestigious compared to S-Class
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Pros
- Vastly superior engine power (up to 503 hp)
- Faster acceleration (as quick as 4.4 seconds)
- Larger trunk capacity (up to 550 L)
- Standard All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction
- More comfortable and refined ride
Cons
- Significantly higher purchase price
- Lower fuel economy (up to 10.6 L/100km)
- Heavier kerb weight impacts agility
- Larger size can be less convenient in urban settings
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more luxurious, the BMW 3 Series or the Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is unequivocally the more luxurious vehicle. Positioned as Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan, it offers superior materials, advanced technology, and a more refined cabin experience compared to the premium but less opulent BMW 3 Series. For buyers prioritizing ultimate luxury and prestige, the S-Class is the clear choice.
Is the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz S-Class better for performance in KSA?
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class offers significantly better performance. Its engine options deliver up to 503 hp and allow for acceleration as quick as 4.4 seconds, far surpassing the BMW 3 Series' 184 hp and 7.1-second acceleration. If raw power and speed are your priorities, the S-Class is the superior option.
Which car is more fuel-efficient, the BMW 3 Series or the Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
The BMW 3 Series is considerably more fuel-efficient, achieving an impressive 5.5 L/100km. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class consumes between 7.8 and 10.6 L/100km depending on the engine. For drivers in KSA looking to save on fuel costs, the BMW 3 Series is the better choice.
What is the price difference between the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class in Saudi Arabia?
There's a substantial price difference. The BMW 3 Series starts around 222,200 SAR, while the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has a starting price of 724,500 SAR, ranging up to 968,128 SAR for higher trims. The S-Class is a significantly larger investment, reflecting its position in the ultra-luxury segment.
Which car offers more space, the BMW 3 Series or the Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class offers substantially more space for both passengers and cargo. With its larger overall dimensions, including a longer wheelbase and a trunk capacity of up to 550 L, it provides a much more expansive and comfortable interior than the more compact BMW 3 Series, which has a 480 L trunk.
