BMW 5 Series vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon: Which Should You Buy in UAE?

A complete comparison of the ⁦BMW 5 Series⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across UAE.

⁦BMW 5 Series⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon⁩: the verdict

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon ultimately wins for buyers seeking a wide range of performance and drivetrain options, though it comes at a significantly higher starting price. The BMW 5 Series offers compelling luxury and a strong value proposition, making it ideal for those prioritizing a premium experience at a more accessible entry point.
#1#2
Price Comparison
Starting at275,000 AED385,900 – 679,900 AED
Engine & Power
Engine1,998 cc · 4 cyl1,991 – 3,982 cc · 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)184 hp184 – 612 hp
Torque (Nm)290 Nm300 – 850 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)7.9 s3.4 – 7.7 s
Top Speed (Km/h)235 km/h240 – 250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)6.1 L/100km5.9 – 9.1 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity70 L50 – 66 L
Gears89
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeRear Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H5.0 m × 2.1 m × 1.5 m4.9 m × 1.9 m × 1.5 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.0 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,670 kg1,530 – 1,880 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)520 L540 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive SteeringAirbagsAluminum WheelsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBluetoothBody Colored Bumper - Front and RearBody Colored MirrorsCargo Area LightCD PlayerCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCollision DetectionCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Handles - Body ColoredDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDynamic Damper ControlDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsFire ExtinguisherFog Lamps - Front OnlyFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFrameless DoorsFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHDMIHeadlight WashersInternet ConnectivityKeyless EntryLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsMP3Multi-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPush Button StartRadioRear AC VentsSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSensorSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTiptronic GearsTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWireless Headphones
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 Value Luxury Sedan

The BMW 5 Series is the clear winner for value, with a starting price of 275,000 AED, making premium luxury more attainable than the E-Class.

2

Best for Performance & Options

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon dominates in performance, offering engine options up to 612 hp and an impressive 3.4s acceleration, alongside the availability of All-Wheel Drive.

3

Best for Base Fuel Efficiency

For those prioritizing fuel economy, the entry-level Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon edges out the BMW 5 Series, consuming just 5.9 L/100km compared to 6.1 L/100km.

4

Best for Cargo Space

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers slightly more practical cargo space with a trunk capacity of 540 L, making it a better choice for carrying luggage.

Pros & cons

BMW 5 Series

Pros

  • More accessible starting price of 275,000 AED
  • Longer wheelbase (3.0 m) for enhanced ride comfort
  • Larger fuel tank capacity (70 L)
  • Wider stance for a commanding road presence (2.1 m)

Cons

  • Limited engine options (single 4-cyl, 184 hp)
  • No All-Wheel Drive option (Rear Wheel Drive only)
  • Slightly less fuel-efficient at base (6.1 L/100km)
  • Smaller trunk space (520 L)

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon

Pros

  • Superior high-end performance (up to 612 hp, 3.4s acceleration)
  • Broader engine selection (up to 3,982 cc, 6 cylinders)
  • Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option
  • Slightly better base fuel economy (5.9 L/100km)
  • Larger trunk capacity (540 L)
  • More advanced 9-speed transmission

Cons

  • Significantly higher starting price (385,900 AED)
  • Smaller fuel tank capacity (50 L for base models)
  • Higher fuel consumption in top trims (up to 9.1 L/100km)
  • Shorter wheelbase (2.9 m)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon more affordable in the UAE?

The BMW 5 Series is significantly more affordable in the UAE, with a starting price of 275,000 AED. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon begins at 385,900 AED. If budget is a primary concern for a luxury sedan, the BMW 5 Series offers a better entry point.

Which luxury sedan offers better performance, the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers superior high-end performance. Its top trims boast up to 612 hp and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. The BMW 5 Series, with its 184 hp engine, reaches 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds, making the E-Class the choice for performance enthusiasts.

Which car, the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon, is more fuel-efficient?

The base model of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is slightly more fuel-efficient, with a consumption of 5.9 L/100km. The BMW 5 Series has a fuel economy of 6.1 L/100km. For maximum efficiency from the start, the E-Class holds a minor advantage.

Does the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offer all-wheel drive?

Yes, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is available with an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option, providing enhanced traction and handling. The BMW 5 Series, as per the provided specifications, comes only with Rear Wheel Drive. For those needing AWD capability, the E-Class is the better choice.

Which has more trunk space, the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers more trunk space, with a capacity of 540 L. The BMW 5 Series provides 520 L of trunk capacity. For slightly more cargo room, the E-Class would be the preferred option.