BMW 5 Series vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon: Which Should You Buy in KSA?

A complete comparison of the ⁦BMW 5 Series⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across KSA.

⁦BMW 5 Series⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon⁩: the verdict

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon takes the lead for buyers seeking a blend of luxury and performance, offering a wider range of powerful engine options and available AWD. However, the BMW 5 Series presents a compelling alternative for those prioritizing consistent fuel efficiency and a more spacious cabin.
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Price Comparison
Starting at290,000 SAR0 – 509,000 SAR
Engine & Power
Engine1,998 cc · 4 cyl1,991 – 2,999 cc · 4 – 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)184 hp184 – 435 hp
Torque (Nm)290 Nm300 – 520 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)7.9 s4.5 – 7.7 s
Top Speed (Km/h)235 km/h240 – 250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)6.1 L/100km5.9 – 8.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity70 L50 – 66 L
Gears89
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeRear Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H5.0 m × 2.1 m × 1.5 m4.9 m × 1.9 m × 1.5 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.0 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,670 kg1,530 – 1,765 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)520 L540 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive SteeringAirbagsAluminum WheelsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBluetoothBody Colored Bumper - Front and RearBody Colored MirrorsCargo Area LightCD PlayerCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCollision DetectionCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Handles - Body ColoredDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDynamic Damper ControlDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsFire ExtinguisherFog Lamps - Front OnlyFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFrameless DoorsFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHDMIHeadlight WashersInternet ConnectivityKeyless EntryLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsMP3Multi-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPush Button StartRadioRear AC VentsSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSensorSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTiptronic GearsTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWireless Headphones
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 Performance Enthusiasts

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon. Its top trims boast significantly higher horsepower (up to 435 hp) and quicker acceleration (as low as 4.5 seconds), making it the choice for thrilling drives.

2

Best for Long-Distance Comfort

The BMW 5 Series. With its larger fuel tank (70 L) and slightly longer wheelbase, it promises fewer stops and a more composed ride, ideal for extended journeys.

3

Best for Diverse Needs

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon. Its broad range of engine sizes, power outputs, and available All-Wheel Drive caters to a wider array of preferences and driving conditions.

4

Best for Fuel Economy (Entry Level)

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon. Its most efficient variant achieves 5.9 L/100km, slightly better than the BMW 5 Series, making it a strong contender for efficiency-conscious drivers.

Pros & cons

BMW 5 Series

Pros

  • Larger fuel tank (70 L)
  • Consistent fuel economy (6.1 L/100km)
  • Slightly longer wheelbase for potential rear legroom
  • More predictable pricing (single price point provided)

Cons

  • Lower maximum power output (184 hp)
  • Slower acceleration (7.9 s)
  • No All-Wheel Drive option in provided specs
  • Smaller trunk capacity than E-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon

Pros

  • Higher maximum power output (up to 435 hp)
  • Faster acceleration (as quick as 4.5 seconds)
  • Available All-Wheel Drive
  • Wider range of engine options (4-6 cylinders)
  • Slightly larger trunk capacity (540 L)

Cons

  • Higher potential fuel consumption in top trims (8.7 L/100km)
  • Smaller fuel tank capacity in some trims (50 L)
  • Higher potential starting price for top trims (up to 509,000 SAR)
  • Slightly shorter wheelbase

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon faster?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is significantly faster, especially in its higher-performance trims. It can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.5 seconds, while the BMW 5 Series has an acceleration time of 7.9 seconds. For outright speed and thrilling performance, the E-Class is the clear winner.

Which car offers better fuel economy, the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers slightly better fuel economy at its most efficient, achieving 5.9 L/100km compared to the BMW 5 Series' 6.1 L/100km. However, higher-performance E-Class trims will consume more fuel. For consistent, good fuel economy, the 5 Series is a strong, predictable choice, but the E-Class edges it out at its peak efficiency.

Which is more spacious, the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The BMW 5 Series boasts a slightly longer overall length and wheelbase (5.0m length, 3.0m wheelbase) compared to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon (4.9m length, 2.9m wheelbase). This suggests the BMW 5 Series likely offers marginally more cabin space, particularly for rear passengers, enhancing comfort on longer journeys. However, the E-Class has a slightly larger trunk at 540 L.

Which car offers more engine options: BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers a much wider array of engine options, ranging from 4 to 6 cylinders and delivering between 184 to 435 horsepower. In contrast, the BMW 5 Series, as presented, has a single engine option with 4 cylinders and 184 horsepower. If you desire variety in performance and power, the E-Class is the superior choice.