BMW 5 Series v Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2017 Comparison

Same, same only different
When it comes to swish wheels, today’s modern executive has a wide range of options from which to choose. There’s the ubiquitous performance SUV, sensible yet eminently practical for the whole family; the driver-focused sports car which says, “This is a car just for moi,” or the large Euro sedan, offering the best of both worlds.

In the face of such choices, our sedan contenders have continued to lift their game, keeping them relevant against increased competition.

The BMW 5-series has always been the ultimate driving machine, delivering on the promise of a large car which is a joy to drive, while offering levels of comfort to cosset either your family or your business associates. Similarly, the Mercedes-Benz E Class sits proudly on the driveway, a step up from the smaller C Class (which some reckon the Holden Calais set moved into), a car which says “I’m still one rung ahead.”

If you haven’t spent time in either model over recent iterations, then a spell in each will confirm these cars are still very much the pinnacle of executive motoring and while they’re fully grown-up, each still offers a contemporary feel.

Why are we comparing them?
BMW 530i versus ‘Benz E 300 is an obvious contest. While strongly related in character, they’re sufficiently individual to entice buyers looking for the different strengths in each.
Each is powered by a mid-strength 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine.

These aren’t performance machines, but each generates sufficient power to bring a grin to its driver and, paired with sophisticated rear-drive chassis’, they are both a joy to drive on highways or in the bends.

The BMW’s engine is mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission and delivers 185kW/350Nm, while Mercedes-Benz adds another cog for the E 300’s transmission and offers 180kW/370Nm.

From behind the wheel, those numbers translate as you’d anticipate. The E 300 offers more initial pull - the 20 extra Newton Metres noticeable from a standstill - but once each is up to speed, they both provide engaging characteristics. Choose to drive at a leisurely pace and the BMW wins the fuel consumption battle, the 530i claimed to sip as a little as 5.8L/100km while Benz submits 7.2L/100km for the E 300. In part, the disparity can be attributed to the E 300’s extra weight – it carries 105kgs more than the 530i.

And the BMW also edges ahead when it comes to ride. It’s a little more refined that the Merc, and a shade quieter on road, but have no doubt, each car is an exceptional place to ride. The 530i rides on standard 19-inch wheels, while the E 300 has 20-inch wheels as standard fitment. Often Mercedes-Benz models serve-up a stiffer ride, but in this comparison there’s little tangible difference.

Who will they appeal to?
Traditionally, these cars have appealed to executives or mature empty-nesters, but these days it would be a mistake for younger drivers to dismiss this pair as too conservative in comparison with the more lively sports models like the 3-Series/4-Series line ups or the C Class.

Each is a refined five-seater, packed with features and technology, but while Mercedes-Benz has until now held the upper hand on the tech front, BMW has leapfrogged the competition with class-leading connected technologies offering exceptional integration and optional toys including gesture control, remote control parking and wireless Apple CarPlay.

Practicality abounds with cavernous boot space in each and no shortage of towing capacity – up to 2100kg with the E 300 and 2000kg with the 530i. The package is rounded out with each offering a solid driving experience catering to both sedate and sporty hankerings – these cars really are exceptional all-rounders.

The Mercedes-Benz is likely to appeal to those who appreciate style thanks to its high tech trim. Its standard nut brown leather interior is embellished by the classy Mercedes wood and aluminium trim. For a more elegant finish, however, the BMW adds Nappa leather upholstery in ivory white. As a $1300 optional extra, the upholstery does add to the BMW’s purchase price but the finish is worth the extra dollars.

How much do they cost?
Cost should not be the defining factor in which of these two you choose. However, if value matters to you as much as prestige, then you’ll no doubt be interested in what’s standard and what’s an optional extra. Naturally in this league, luxury car tax (LCT) comes into play on the purchase price and all your extras.

Personalisation options abound with each vehicle. Metallic paint will add $2000 to the price of the 530i while it’s a shade less at $1990 on the E300.

The BMW 530i test car is equipped with a host of extras, pushing its base price up from $108,900 to $123,123 plus on-road costs. Most of the options are ‘nice-to-haves’ and, for example, skipping the $600 ambient air conditioning which perfumes the cabin will not impact your enjoyment of this car.

Failing to tick BMW’s $623 button for Apple CarPlay would be an error however. Yes, it’s standard in some sub $20,000 cars but, in the BMW, it’s the first iteration of CarPlay which doesn’t require a cable to operate. And it works seamlessly.

Head-up display is included as standard in the BMW, while a sunroof in the 530i will set you back $2900.

The E 300 is close to standard, but includes a $4990 vision package comprising electric sunroof, head-up display and Burmester sound system.

Service costs vary between the two. BMW bundles its first five years of basic servicing for $1640 on the 5-series, while Mercedes-Benz capped price servicing will see you shell out $2680 over the first 3 years/75,000kms. You’ll be visiting the Mercedes-Benz technicians every 25,000kms, whereas BMW wants to see you very 20,000kms - but its condition based servicing might see that varied depending on use.

Each car offers 36 months of included roadside assistance and a 36-month unlimited kilometre warranty.

What do they do well?
The BMW wins for technology integration, luxury feel and road presence. The Mercedes-Benz ticks the prestige box too, delivering luxury performance admirably. Those seeking a more dynamic driving experience will find appeal in the lowdown grunt from Merc’s torquey engine.

What could they do better?
We’d like to see stronger styling for the E Class. It doesn’t look distinct enough from its more affordable C-Class sibling, and we reckon execs will want their colleagues to know they’re behind the wheel of something special.

From the outside, the BMW is similarly understated, which is a shame as it is an exceptional package. Those drivers who opt for this car will get a nice warm feeling when they step inside as they’ll know it’s a well disguised secret… we just think it’s a secret worth sharing.

Which wins, and why?
This is one of those comparison tests where whichever car you choose, you won’t be disappointed. Of course, there has to be a winner and we feel it is the BMW 530i which has the edge in this contest. Already the ultimate driving machine, it has raised its technology game significantly, offering a package sure to meet the most exacting needs of any executive and with more affordable running costs, you can afford to tick another option box or two.

2017 BMW 530i pricing and specifications:
Price as tested inc LCT: $123,123 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 185kW/350Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Fuel: 5.8L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 132g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP

2017 Mercedes-Benz E 300 pricing and specifications:
Price as tested inc LCT: $114,880 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 180kW/370Nm
Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
Fuel: 7.1L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 159g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP