BMW 5 Series versus Mercedes-Benz E-ClassWhich would be your first choice, a BMW 5 Series or a Mercedes-Benz E-Class? Most drivers would get years of satisfying motoring from either car, but for our money the 5 Series has the edge.
If you’re a company car driver with one eye on your tax bill, the BMW 520d is the executive saloon we’d choose. With official combined economy of 62.8mpg and carbon dioxide emissions of 119g/km, it’s in the 18% Benefit-In-Kind bracket. The closest equivalent in the E-Class range is the 220 CDi, which achieves 58.9mpg and emits 125g/km. That puts it just two bands higher than the BMW, but since it also has a higher list price than the 5 Series, it’s nothing like as tax-efficient.
For a private buyer covering fewer miles, petrol power could be more appealing than a diesel. In which case prices start from £32,565 for the BMW 520i SE. Shop at a Mercedes-Benz dealer and you’ll need to find at least £33,985 for the 200 SE 7G-Tronic Plus. That’s a price difference of more than £1400.
BMW 5 Series(2)
Perhaps you’re a fan of the three-pointed star and think the E-Class is worth paying more for. Well, most expert reviewers conclude that not only is the BMW more tax-efficient and more affordable than the Merc, it’s simply the better car. Whatcar.com describes the 5 Series as “a classy, spacious and refined executive saloon with low running costs and excellent engines”. The 5 Series scores four out of five overall.
The same website says “comfort is the Mercedes E-Class’ big strength, but then again that’s exactly what you expect from a Merc.” It lags behind the 5 Series overall, though, with a score of three out of five.
Auto Express is even more certain that the BMW is the car to beat. “It’s always been the best car in its class ‚ and the latest BMW 5 Series is just as brilliant. It manages to offer a more enjoyable driving experience than the Audi A6 and the Mercedes E-Class, but it’s also very good at covering long distances in comfort. Factor in a well-equipped and plush cabin, plus an engine range including economical diesels and punchy petrol motors, and you’ve got a superb all-rounder.” A five-star verdict makes the 5 Series Auto Express’s favourite executive saloon.
The E-Class is ranked a creditable second to the brilliant 5 Series, described as “a comfortable and refined rival to the BMW 5 Series – but it’s expensive”. The Merc scores four stars.
Of course, you don’t have to believe us, or the motoring press. Take the E-Class for a test drive, then pay a visit to your nearest Elms BMW dealer. We’re confident it’s the 5 Series you’ll want to drive home.