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 edges out the BMW 5 Series for buyers seeking ultimate luxury and performance versatility, offering a wider range of powerful engines and advanced features including AWD. However, the BMW 5 Series remains a compelling choice for those prioritizing a more accessible entry price and a balanced luxury sedan experience without compromising on driving dynamics.
#1#2
Price Comparison
Starting at290,000 SAR329,242 – 397,461 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
Battery Size—1 kWh
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 Value-Conscious Luxury

The BMW 5 Series is the clear winner here, offering a premium sedan experience starting at 290,000 SAR, significantly more affordable than the E-Class's entry price.

2

Best for High Performance

For thrill-seekers, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon takes the lead with its top-tier variants boasting up to 435 hp and an acceleration of 4.5 seconds, far surpassing the 5 Series' single 184 hp option.

3

Best for All-Weather Driving

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is the superior choice for varied conditions, offering All-Wheel Drive options, whereas the BMW 5 Series is exclusively Rear Wheel Drive.

4

Best for Fuel Efficiency (Base Model)

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon's base model offers a slightly better fuel economy of 5.9 L/100km compared to the BMW 5 Series' 6.1 L/100km, making it a touch more economical for daily commutes.

Pros & cons

BMW 5 Series

Pros

  • More accessible starting price (290,000 SAR)
  • Longer and wider stance for commanding presence
  • Larger fuel tank capacity (70 L)
  • Consistent, good fuel economy across its offering
  • Longer wheelbase for potentially more interior room

Cons

  • Lower maximum performance compared to E-Class
  • No All-Wheel Drive option available
  • Smaller trunk capacity
  • Fewer transmission gears
  • No mild-hybrid option listed

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon

Pros

  • Significantly higher maximum horsepower (up to 435 hp)
  • Faster acceleration (as quick as 4.5 seconds)
  • Offers All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option
  • Larger maximum trunk capacity (540 L)
  • More transmission gears (9-speed automatic)
  • Available with mild-hybrid technology

Cons

  • Higher starting price point
  • Smaller maximum fuel tank capacity
  • Slightly more compact dimensions (length and width)
  • Higher fuel consumption in top-tier variants
  • Base model offers similar power to the 5 Series' single trim

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon better for performance driving?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is unequivocally better for performance driving. Its top-tier engines deliver up to 435 hp and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, significantly outperforming the BMW 5 Series' 184 hp and 7.9-second acceleration. For enthusiasts seeking speed and power, the E-Class is the clear winner.

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

The BMW 5 Series offers better value for money, with a starting price of 290,000 SAR, making it considerably more affordable than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon, which starts at 329,242 SAR. While both are luxury sedans, the 5 Series provides a premium experience at a more accessible entry point, making it a smarter choice for budget-conscious luxury buyers.

Which has more cargo space, the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers more cargo space with a trunk capacity of 540 liters, slightly exceeding the BMW 5 Series' 520 liters. For buyers who frequently carry luggage or need extra room for groceries and gear, the E-Class provides that marginal but noticeable advantage.

Does the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon or BMW 5 Series offer all-wheel drive?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers All-Wheel Drive (AWD) options, providing enhanced traction and stability, especially in varying road conditions. The BMW 5 Series, as per the provided specifications, is exclusively Rear Wheel Drive. Therefore, if AWD is a priority for you, the E-Class is the better choice.

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

The base model of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is marginally more fuel-efficient, achieving 5.9 L/100km compared to the BMW 5 Series' 6.1 L/100km. However, the E-Class's higher performance trims consume more fuel. For consistent, good fuel economy, the 5 Series' single offering is very competitive, but the E-Class's entry variant has a slight edge.