2024
See BMW 3 Series for saleBMW 3 Series
From SAR 270,250
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.
2024
See Mercedes-Benz S-Class for saleMercedes-Benz S-Class
From SAR 550,000
BMW 3 Series VS Mercedes-Benz S-Class: the verdict
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the undisputed winner for those seeking ultimate luxury, unparalleled comfort, and commanding performance. It offers a truly premium driving experience with superior power and spaciousness. However, for buyers prioritizing value, everyday practicality, and impressive fuel efficiency without compromising on engaging driving dynamics, the BMW 3 Series presents a compelling, significantly more affordable alternative.
| #1 BMW 3 Series#1 | #2 Mercedes-Benz S-Class#2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price Comparison | ||
| Starting at | 230,000 – 270,250 SAR | 550,000 – 858,900 SAR |
| Engine & Power | ||
| Engine | 1,998 cc · 4 cyl | 2,999 – 3,982 cc · 6 – 8 cyl |
| Horsepower (bhp) | 184 – 258 hp | 367 – 503 hp |
| Torque (Nm) | 300 – 400 Nm | 500 – 700 Nm |
| Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec) | 5.8 – 7.1 s | 4.4 – 5.1 s |
| Top Speed (Km/h) | 240 – 250 km/h | 250 km/h |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 Km) | 5.5 – 5.8 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 – 1,545 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 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 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)AirbagsAll-Wheel SteeringAlloy 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 ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront BumperFront CameraFront Seat ArmrestFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDDHDMIHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistHill Descent ControlIlluminated 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 LampsMicrophoneMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff Road KItOff-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 pretensionerSeatsSide Impact BarSilver TrimSonarSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTailgate with HatchTemperature 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 & Comfort
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class stands as the pinnacle of automotive luxury, offering a supremely comfortable ride, exquisite interiors, and advanced features, making it ideal for discerning buyers who demand the best.
2
Best for Everyday Value & Efficiency
The BMW 3 Series is the clear choice for daily commuting and budget-conscious drivers in KSA, providing excellent fuel economy of 5.5 L/100km and a more accessible price point starting at 230,000 SAR.
3
Best for Commanding Performance
With up to 503 hp and an acceleration of 4.4 seconds, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class delivers exhilarating performance and a more powerful engine range, making it the winner for those who prioritize raw power and speed.
4
Best for Agile Driving Dynamics
The BMW 3 Series, being significantly lighter with a kerb weight starting at 1,450 kg, offers a more agile and sporty driving experience, perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy dynamic handling.
Pros & cons
BMW 3 Series
Pros
- Significantly more affordable starting price
- Superior fuel efficiency (5.5 L/100km)
- Lighter kerb weight for agile handling
- Compact dimensions for easier city maneuvering
- Engaging Rear Wheel Drive dynamics
Cons
- Lower power output compared to S-Class
- Smaller overall dimensions and trunk space
- Rear Wheel Drive only
- Less premium interior appointments
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Pros
- Much higher horsepower (up to 503 hp)
- Faster acceleration (4.4 seconds)
- Larger trunk capacity (up to 550 L)
- More luxurious and spacious interior
- Advanced All-Wheel Drive system
Cons
- Significantly higher purchase price
- Higher fuel consumption (up to 10.6 L/100km)
- Heavier kerb weight impacts agility
- Larger size can be challenging in tight spaces
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz S-Class better for luxury and prestige in KSA?
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is unequivocally better for luxury and prestige. With its significantly higher price point, more powerful engines (up to 503 hp), larger dimensions, and opulent interior, it is designed to offer a superior, first-class experience, making it the preferred choice for discerning buyers in Saudi Arabia.
Which car offers better fuel economy, the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
The BMW 3 Series offers significantly better fuel economy, consuming as little as 5.5 L/100km. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, with its larger engines, has a higher fuel consumption range of 7.8 – 10.6 L/100km. For fuel-conscious drivers, the 3 Series is the clear winner.
What are the performance differences between the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class offers superior performance, boasting up to 503 hp and an acceleration time of 4.4 seconds. The BMW 3 Series, while sporty in its class, has a power range of 184 – 258 hp and accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds at its fastest. The S-Class is engineered for higher performance.
Is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class worth the higher price compared to the BMW 3 Series?
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class commands a significantly higher price (starting from 550,000 SAR) because it operates in a different segment, offering a full-size luxury experience with superior power, space, comfort, and advanced features. The BMW 3 Series (starting from 230,000 SAR) offers excellent value as a premium compact executive sedan. Whether the S-Class is "worth it" depends entirely on your budget and priorities for luxury and performance.
Which car has more trunk space, the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class offers more trunk space, with a capacity ranging from 530 to 550 liters. The BMW 3 Series provides a respectable 480 liters of trunk capacity. For buyers needing maximum cargo room, the S-Class is the better option.
