The rivalry between the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and the BMW 5 Series is one of the most enduring and iconic in the automotive world. For decades, these two German luxury sedans have battled for supremacy, each representing a distinct approach to premium motoring. As we potentially stand at the cusp of a shift towards electric vehicles, these combustion-engined powerhouses return for what might be their final face-off in their purest forms. It’s a celebration of automotive excellence, a “party on death row” as we savor the legacy of these titans.
BMW 5 Series: Pre-Flight Briefing
Why This Matters: The BMW 5 Series holds a critical position in BMW’s lineup, arguably as central as the 3 Series. Its success is vital to the brand’s overall health. The design of this latest generation 5 Series is intentionally evolutionary, avoiding radical styling cues to appeal to a broad audience. It maintains its position as the primary competitor to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, a rivalry that has historically seen the 5 Series lean towards a sportier, driver-centric experience, albeit with less outright luxury compared to its Stuttgart counterpart.
Tech and Ergonomics: While Mercedes opted to eliminate its traditional rotary controller, BMW has wisely retained the iDrive interface. This physical controller allows for intuitive and distraction-free operation of secondary vehicle functions. Complementing iDrive are enhanced voice control and thoughtfully placed rocker switches on the steering wheel, ensuring key controls remain easily accessible and user-friendly.
Model Spotlight: 520i M Sport: Priced from £51,000, the 520i M Sport serves as the entry point to the 5 Series range. In its standard configuration, it presents a slightly less overtly luxurious and technologically flamboyant ambiance compared to the more lavish E-Class. Currently, the 5 Series is offered exclusively as a rear-wheel-drive sedan. However, BMW plans to expand the lineup with a Touring estate version and xDrive all-wheel-drive variants, including the 550e and 530e plug-in hybrids. Trim choices are streamlined to M Sport and M Sport Pro, with the all-electric i5 representing a significant branch of the 5 Series family.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Pre-Flight Briefing
Why It’s Here: Despite the shifting market preference towards SUVs, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class remains a symbol of prestige and a sought-after choice for those valuing a blend of luxury and robust build quality. Its competition with the 5 Series is deeply rooted in automotive history. Furthermore, the E-Class now poses an interesting internal question: does it, with its extensive features, potentially overshadow the need for the larger S-Class? Many of the flagship S-Class’s innovations are now available within the E-Class package.
Innovation and Technology: The E-Class largely builds upon proven mechanical foundations but distinguishes itself through software-driven advancements. The most prominent of these is the optional Superscreen, a sweeping panel of displays that dominate the dashboard, offering a futuristic and immersive digital experience. Beyond visuals, Mercedes emphasizes sensory luxury, with features like a top-tier seat massage system integrated with visual, auditory, and even olfactory “feel-good” programs. The “Creating Routines” function showcases intelligent automation, proactively adjusting vehicle settings based on factors like time, temperature, and navigation destinations.
Model in Focus: E220d AMG Line Premium: The E220d AMG Line Premium starts at £63,050 before options. Opting for the petrol equivalent in the same trim reduces the price by £1635. The entry-level E200 is priced at £55,290. Currently, neither 4Matic all-wheel drive nor six-cylinder engines are available in this generation. The top-tier model is presently the E300e PHEV Premium Plus, a plug-in hybrid boasting 328bhp from a 2.0-liter engine, priced at £76,585.
Mercedes E-Class vs BMW 5 Series: A Combustion Engine Celebration
In an era increasingly dominated by electric vehicles, the arrival of new combustion-engine premium sedans like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class feels almost rebellious. These vehicles, while deeply rooted in tradition, are also strikingly modern in their own ways. They represent a continuation of a legacy, proving that reports of the traditional sedan’s demise have been, as Mark Twain might say, greatly exaggerated.
Historically, the 5 Series and E-Class represented distinct philosophies. BMW prioritized the driving experience, aiming for a more engaging and dynamic character, appealing to drivers who envisioned themselves on the open autobahn. Mercedes-Benz, conversely, emphasized comfort and status, creating a luxurious and safe environment, perfectly suited for both city streets and long journeys.
However, in recent years, these lines have blurred. Software and technology have become key differentiators, and both brands have aggressively pursued “premium luxury.” While venturing into bold and sometimes polarizing designs with their EV ranges (think BMW iX or Mercedes EQS), both BMW and Mercedes have adopted a more conservative approach within their core sedan segments, ensuring the 3/5 Series and C/E-Class remain broadly appealing.
Stepping inside the new 520i or E220d reveals a significant departure from their predecessors. The BMW interior adopts a minimalist, tech-forward aesthetic, dominated by a high-resolution curved display and a sleek center console. It feels like a sophisticated digital command center.
The Mercedes-Benz counters with the available XXL Superscreen, creating an even more immersive digital environment. While luxurious materials like leather and wood are still available, they share space with touch-sensitive surfaces, screens, and various controls. The optional passenger display further enhances the tech-centric cabin experience.
The user interface is where the progress isn’t always straightforward. While both cars offer advanced technology, the sheer complexity can sometimes be overwhelming. Simple tasks, like disabling driver-assistance systems, require multiple steps through menus, a far cry from the intuitive controls of older models. While customizable profiles are available, the initial setup and ongoing adjustments can feel cumbersome.
Despite the technological advancements, core comfort elements remain. The Mercedes-Benz seats, while derived from the C-Class, offer exceptional multi-mode massage functions, a feature absent in the current 5 Series.
Drive modes offer a spectrum of driving personalities. Mercedes keeps it relatively simple with Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual. BMW’s “My Modes” are more extensive and expressive, including Personal, Sport, Sport Plus, Efficient, Expressive, Digital Art, Relax, and Silent, each accompanied by distinct graphics, colors, and sounds. While seemingly elaborate, it caters to the desire for personalized driving experiences. Thankfully, both avoid overly intrusive digital assistants that some competitors employ.
Our test vehicles feature a petrol BMW 520i (205bhp) and a diesel Mercedes-Benz E220d (195bhp). While engine choice is often a matter of preference, in this segment, the core driving experience is surprisingly similar regardless of fuel type, especially at non-performance-oriented levels.
The driving dynamics reveal subtle but noticeable differences. The BMW 520i, despite its increased dimensions (now longer than the Mercedes), feels firmer and more agile. It exhibits superior traction when cornering. Neither engine is exceptionally refined in terms of noise and vibration, but the Mercedes-Benz diesel tends to be more vocal and less smooth under strain. However, at cruising speeds, the E220d settles into a quiet and refined hum.
The E220d’s diesel engine delivers 325lb ft of torque through a nine-speed automatic transmission, while the 520i’s 2.0-liter petrol engine produces 243lb ft of torque paired with an eight-speed automatic. The 520i is marginally quicker in a sprint (7.5 seconds vs 7.6 seconds), but the E220d achieves a slightly higher top speed (148mph vs 142mph).
Fuel economy figures favor the diesel E220d, achieving approximately 10mpg better in WLTP tests. Real-world differences may be smaller. Both engines incorporate mild-hybrid technology, with the Mercedes offering a slightly more powerful electric motor (23bhp vs 18bhp). This mild-hybrid assistance enhances throttle response and mitigates turbo lag, making even the base engines feel responsive.
Engine characteristics differ noticeably. The diesel E220d, with a lower redline (4400rpm), delivers peak power at 3600rpm and maximum torque between 1800-2800rpm. It’s geared towards relaxed cruising and long-distance efficiency. The petrol 520i, revving to 7000rpm, offers peak power from 4400-6500rpm and torque across a broader 1500-4000rpm range. The 520i’s engine is smoother and quieter, encouraging a more rev-happy driving style, while the E220d excels in low-end torque and fuel efficiency.
While straight-line performance is comparable, the BMW 520i demonstrates its traditional edge in handling. It exhibits more tenacious roadholding and flatter cornering, particularly on smooth roads. On rougher surfaces, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class narrows the gap, although its diesel engine and weight distribution can make power delivery slightly less immediate. Overall, the 5 Series feels more agile, while the E-Class prioritizes stability and composure.
The steering in the E-Class is lighter and less communicative compared to the BMW’s more direct and weightier steering rack. Braking performance is strong in both, but the BMW’s brakes offer a more immediate and confidence-inspiring initial bite.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class prioritizes ride comfort, offering a plusher and more forgiving ride quality. Its dynamics are smoother and more progressive, prioritizing safety and ease of driving. The BMW 5 Series, in contrast, encourages a more engaged driving style, rewarding drivers who push it harder.
Luxury in these modern sedans extends beyond traditional materials. While leather and wood remain options, manufacturers now focus on digital features, driver-assistance systems, and personalized experiences to enhance perceived value and generate revenue.
Both the E-Class and 5 Series offer elaborate welcome sequences, including logo projection lights, ambient lighting displays, and personalized soundscapes. Inside, features like mood-sensitive ambient lighting, fragrances, adaptive seats, and personalized sound patterns aim to create a holistic and luxurious environment.
Connectivity and digital features are extensive. Both offer advanced infotainment systems with navigation, smartphone integration, and a growing array of apps. BMW’s system includes gaming and sports apps, even enabling smartphone-based multiplayer gaming within the car. These features highlight the evolving role of the car as not just transportation, but also a mobile entertainment and connectivity hub.
The journey towards autonomous driving is evident in features like BMW’s Driving Assistant Professional (currently unavailable in the UK), which can autonomously execute lane changes at speeds up to 81mph, requiring only driver supervision. Mercedes-Benz is expected to offer similar Level 2+ autonomy features soon, indicating the ongoing development of self-driving capabilities even in these traditionally driver-focused sedans.
Mercedes E-Class vs BMW 5 Series: Final Reckoning
Both the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series are exceptional vehicles, each with its own strengths. They are visually appealing, well-built, and generously equipped, delivering a premium driving experience. Criticisms are minor, often focused on nuanced differences and feature availability. Both uphold their brand traditions admirably.
The BMW 5 Series feels more contemporary and subtly sporty, while the Mercedes-Benz E-Class evokes classic Mercedes luxury and prestige. The E-Class appears visually larger, although the 5 Series has a slightly longer wheelbase and marginally more rear passenger space. Interestingly, BMW’s vegan leather upholstery feels comparable in quality to the traditional leather in our E220d test car.
The BMW 520i’s boot is slightly smaller than the E-Class, but the more significant practical difference is the smaller fuel tank, giving the diesel E-Class a considerable range advantage. However, plug-in hybrid versions address range concerns for both models.
For those drawn to the Mercedes-Benz but hesitant about diesel, the petrol E200 offers a similar experience to the E220d in most respects. Engine choice is less critical than the overall driving experience, styling, and interior ambiance.
Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role. The exterior styling and interior design of both cars are distinct and will likely evoke strong opinions. Both cabins are tech-heavy and luxurious, designed for both work and leisure, even hinting at a future where the car may drive itself.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class offers a more spacious, comfortable, and traditionally luxurious cabin. The BMW 5 Series interior is more modern and functionally oriented, with a minimalist design despite its extensive technology.
Choosing a winner is exceptionally difficult. However, for drivers who prioritize driving engagement and a more dynamic experience, the BMW 5 Series edges ahead. While the Mercedes-Benz E-Class excels in ride comfort and traditional luxury, the BMW 5 Series, true to its heritage, remains the more rewarding driving machine.
Mercedes E-Class vs BMW 5 Series: The Verdict
First Place: BMW 5 Series
While a strong argument could be made for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the BMW 5 Series appeals more strongly to driving enthusiasts, offering a sharper and more engaging driving experience.
Second Place: Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is plusher, roomier, and more traditionally luxurious, but slightly less refined and dynamically involving than the BMW 5 Series.
