BMW 3 Series vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon: Which Should You Buy in UAE?

A complete comparison of the ⁦BMW 3 Series⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across UAE.

⁦BMW 3 Series⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon⁩: the verdict

The BMW 3 Series emerges as the winner for buyers prioritizing a dynamic driving experience and better value. Its sportier handling and more accessible price point make it appealing, especially for enthusiasts. However, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers superior luxury, passenger comfort, and outright performance in its top trims, making it the preferred choice for those seeking a more opulent and spacious executive sedan.
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Price Comparison
Starting at259,000 – 360,000 AED388,900 – 558,995 AED
Engine & Power
Engine1,998 – 2,998 cc · 4 – 6 cyl1,991 – 3,982 cc · 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)184 – 374 hp184 – 612 hp
Torque (Nm)300 – 500 Nm300 – 850 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)4.4 – 7.1 s3.4 – 7.7 s
Top Speed (Km/h)240 – 250 km/h240 – 250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)5.5 – 7.3 L/100km5.9 – 9.1 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity60 L50 – 66 L
Gears89
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.6 / 4.7 m × 1.8 / 1.8 m × 1.4 / 1.4 m4.9 m × 1.9 m × 1.5 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.8 / 2.9 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,450 – 1,670 kg1,530 – 1,880 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)480 L540 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBrembo BrakesBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterCollision DetectionCompassCool boxCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHDDHDMIHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerIntelligent KeyISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsLegroomLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresPaddle ShiftersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRoad Sign AssistRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeatbelt pretensionerSilver TrimSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVentilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic Front WindshieldActive BonnetActive 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 Exhaust PipesChrome 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 AssistIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizerIntelligent KeyInternet ConnectivityiPod 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 SystemOdometerPaddle ShiftersPanoramic Glass RoofParking 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 LimiterSport PedalsSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTemperature 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 Driving Enthusiasts

The BMW 3 Series, with its agile handling and responsive engines, provides a more engaging and sporty driving experience, perfect for those who love to feel connected to the road.

2

Best for Executive Comfort

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon excels in providing a more luxurious and comfortable ride, offering greater interior space and a more refined cabin, ideal for long journeys and passenger comfort.

3

Best for Value

Starting at 245,000 AED, the BMW 3 Series offers a more attractive entry price, delivering premium features and performance without the higher cost of the E-Class.

4

Best for Ultimate Performance

For those seeking raw power and blistering acceleration, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon's top trims deliver up to 612 hp and a 0-100 km/h sprint of 3.4 seconds, outperforming the 3 Series.

Pros & cons

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • More accessible starting price (from 245,000 AED)
  • Superior fuel efficiency (as low as 5.5 L/100km)
  • More agile and driver-focused handling
  • Slightly lower kerb weight for a nimble feel

Cons

  • Less overall trunk space (480 L)
  • Lower maximum power compared to E-Class
  • Slightly less opulent interior feel
  • 8-speed transmission vs. E-Class's 9-speed

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon

Pros

  • Higher maximum power output (up to 612 hp)
  • Quicker top-end acceleration (0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds)
  • Larger trunk capacity (540 L)
  • More luxurious and spacious interior
  • More advanced 9-speed transmission

Cons

  • Significantly higher starting price (from 385,900 AED)
  • Lower fuel efficiency (as high as 9.1 L/100km)
  • Less nimble handling due to larger size and weight
  • Higher kerb weight

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon more affordable in the UAE?

The BMW 3 Series is significantly more affordable, with prices starting from 245,000 AED. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon begins at 385,900 AED. If budget is a primary concern, the 3 Series offers a more accessible entry into the luxury sedan segment.

Which car offers better performance: BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

While both offer strong performance, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon ultimately offers higher performance potential at its top end. Its most powerful variant boasts 612 hp and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds, surpassing the 3 Series' maximum of 374 hp and 4.4 seconds.

Which is more fuel-efficient, the BMW 3 Series or the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The BMW 3 Series generally offers better fuel efficiency, with its most efficient trim achieving 5.5 L/100km. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon's range starts at 5.9 L/100km but can go up to 9.1 L/100km for its higher-powered variants, making the 3 Series the more economical choice at the pump.

Is the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon better for families in the UAE?

For families prioritizing interior space and trunk capacity, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is the better choice. It offers a more spacious cabin and a larger 540 L trunk, compared to the BMW 3 Series' 480 L trunk, providing more comfort and practicality for passengers and luggage.

Which offers a more luxurious interior, the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon typically offers a more luxurious and refined interior experience. While the 3 Series has a premium cabin, the E-Class is designed with a focus on executive comfort and higher-grade materials, providing a more opulent feel for both driver and passengers.