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 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon wins for those prioritizing luxury, space, and a refined driving experience, especially with its higher-end trims. However, the BMW 3 Series remains the top choice for buyers seeking a sportier, more agile sedan at a more accessible premium price point, offering excellent driving dynamics for the enthusiast.
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Price Comparison
Starting at245,000 – 315,000 AED385,900 – 679,900 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 renowned handling and sportier feel, is ideal for those who value an engaging driving experience. Its lower kerb weight and responsive engines make it a joy on the road.

2

Best for Luxury & Comfort

For unparalleled luxury, advanced features, and a supremely comfortable ride, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is the clear winner. Its premium interior and smoother 9-speed transmission provide a more sophisticated journey.

3

Best for Value

The BMW 3 Series offers a more attractive entry point into the premium sedan segment, with a starting price significantly lower than the E-Class. It delivers premium features and performance without the higher cost.

4

Best for Cargo & Family

Families needing more space will appreciate the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon, which boasts a larger 540 L trunk capacity compared to the 3 Series' 480 L. This extra room is crucial for luggage or strollers.

Pros & cons

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • More affordable starting price (245,000 AED)
  • Superior fuel economy (as low as 5.5 L/100km)
  • Lighter kerb weight (starting from 1,450 kg)
  • Known for sportier handling and agility

Cons

  • Smaller trunk capacity (480 L)
  • Lower maximum power output (up to 374 hp)
  • Fewer transmission gears (8-speed)
  • Less emphasis on ultimate luxury compared to E-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon

Pros

  • Higher maximum power output (up to 612 hp)
  • Larger trunk capacity (540 L)
  • More gears for smoother transmission (9-speed)
  • More luxurious interior and ride comfort
  • Higher maximum torque (up to 850 Nm)

Cons

  • Significantly higher starting price (385,900 AED)
  • Slightly heavier kerb weight (starting from 1,530 kg)
  • Higher minimum fuel consumption (5.9 L/100km)
  • Less overtly sporty feel than the 3 Series

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon more luxurious?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon generally offers a more luxurious and refined experience. With its higher price range, superior interior finishes, and advanced comfort features, the E-Class is designed to provide a premium, upscale cabin environment. If luxury and comfort are your top priorities, the E-Class is the better choice.

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

While the BMW 3 Series is celebrated for its agile handling and driver engagement, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon, especially in its higher trims, offers superior raw power. The E-Class can reach up to 612 hp compared to the 3 Series' 374 hp, and achieves a quicker 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds. For sheer straight-line performance and higher top-end power, the E-Class takes the lead.

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

For families, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is generally the more practical choice due to its larger trunk capacity of 540 L, offering more space for strollers, groceries, or luggage compared to the 3 Series' 480 L. While both are 5-seaters, the E-Class's larger dimensions contribute to a more spacious and comfortable cabin for all passengers, making it better suited for family needs.

Which car has better fuel economy, the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The BMW 3 Series generally boasts better fuel economy, with its most efficient variant achieving as low as 5.5 L/100km. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon starts at 5.9 L/100km. If fuel efficiency is a significant factor in your decision, the BMW 3 Series offers a more economical choice for daily driving.