The Mercedes-Benz E-Class focuses on chauffeur-driven comfort, premium cabin technology and an impressive rear-seat experience. Meanwhile, the BMW 5 Series LWB combines sporty performance, a comfortable cabin and engaging driving dynamics.
Both sedans are designed for customers who want a premium luxury car for business travel, family journeys and everyday driving.
But which one is better in 2026? Is the Mercedes E-Class worth paying extra for its luxurious rear seats, or does the BMW 5 Series offer better performance and value for money?
In this detailed comparison, we will compare their prices, exterior design, dimensions, engines, mileage, interiors, features, safety, ride quality and practicality.
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| Mercedes E-Class Luxury and chauffeur comfort |
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| BMW 5 Series Performance and driving pleasure |
1. Mercedes E-Class vs BMW 5 Series: Price Comparison
Price is one of the biggest factors when choosing between these luxury sedans.
The Mercedes E-Class offers petrol and diesel options in its regular variants, along with more expensive performance-oriented versions. BMW India offers the 5 Series LWB in the 530Li M Sport petrol variant.
Price details |
Mercedes E-Class |
BMW 5 Series LWB |
|---|---|---|
Starting price |
₹81.50 lakh |
₹76.60 lakh |
Main petrol variant |
E 200 |
530Li M Sport |
Diesel option |
E 220d |
Not available |
Transmission |
9-speed automatic |
8-speed automatic |
Fuel options |
Petrol, diesel, hybrid |
Petrol |
The Mercedes E-Class starts at approximately ₹81.50 lakh, while the BMW 5 Series LWB starts at ₹76.60 lakh (ex-showroom).
Price verdict: BMW 5 Series wins on starting price. However, Mercedes offers an additional diesel powertrain option, giving buyers more flexibility.
2. Exterior Design Comparison
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| BMW 5 Series |
Mercedes E-Class exterior design
The Mercedes E-Class follows a traditional luxury-sedan design with elegant proportions, chrome detailing and a premium front appearance.
Important exterior highlights include:
Large Mercedes-Benz front grille.
Three-pointed-star LED tail lamps.
LED headlamps.
Chrome exterior detailing.
Stylish 18-inch alloy wheels.
Flush-fitting door handles.
Panoramic sunroof.
Long-wheelbase body design.
Soft-close doors.
The E-Class looks sophisticated and elegant, making it particularly attractive to buyers who prefer traditional luxury styling.
BMW 5 Series exterior design
The BMW 5 Series features a sportier and more aggressive design. Its large illuminated kidney grille, M Sport styling package and sharp body lines give it a distinctive appearance.
Important exterior highlights include:
Large illuminated kidney grille.
Adaptive LED headlamps.
Sporty M Sport bumpers.
19-inch alloy wheels.
LED rear lighting.
Panoramic glass roof.
Sporty exterior detailing.
Long-wheelbase proportions.
The BMW looks more muscular and modern, especially from the front.
Exterior verdict: Mercedes E-Class wins for elegant luxury styling, while BMW 5 Series is better for buyers who prefer a sporty appearance.
3. Dimensions Comparison
Dimensions directly influence road presence, rear-seat comfort and cabin practicality.
Dimensions |
Mercedes E-Class |
BMW 5 Series LWB |
|---|---|---|
Length |
5,082 mm |
5,175 mm |
Width |
1,880 mm |
1,900 mm |
Height |
1,492 mm |
1,520 mm |
Wheelbase |
3,094 mm |
3,105 mm |
Ground clearance |
Approx. 135 mm |
Approx. 150 mm |
Boot space |
Varies by version |
500 litres |
Seating capacity |
5 |
5 |
Which sedan is bigger?
BMW 5 Series is 93 mm longer.
BMW 5 Series is 20 mm wider.
BMW 5 Series is 28 mm taller.
BMW 5 Series has an 11 mm longer wheelbase.
BMW offers a 500-litre boot.
Dimensions verdict: BMW 5 Series wins on exterior dimensions and offers a slightly longer wheelbase. Both cars provide generous cabin space for rear passengers.
4. Engine and Performance Comparison
Engine performance is one of the biggest differences between these two luxury sedans.
The Mercedes E-Class offers multiple engine options, including petrol and diesel. The BMW 5 Series LWB comes with a powerful 2.0-litre turbo-petrol mild-hybrid engine.
Mercedes E-Class engine specifications
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| Mercedes E-Class |
Engine details |
E 200 |
E 220d |
|---|---|---|
Engine |
2.0L turbo-petrol |
2.0L turbo-diesel |
Displacement |
1,999 cc |
1,993 cc |
Maximum power |
204 hp |
197 hp |
Maximum torque |
320 Nm |
440 Nm |
Transmission |
9-speed automatic |
9-speed automatic |
Drive type |
Rear-wheel drive |
Rear-wheel drive |
0–100 km/h |
Approx. 7.5 sec |
Approx. 7.6 sec |
The E 200 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with mild-hybrid assistance. It produces 204 hp and 320 Nm of torque.
The E 220d uses a 2.0-litre diesel engine producing 197 hp and 440 Nm. Its strong torque makes it particularly suitable for relaxed highway cruising and effortless overtaking.
BMW 5 Series engine specifications
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| BMW 5 Series |
Engine details |
BMW 530Li |
|---|---|
Engine |
2.0L turbo-petrol |
Displacement |
1,998 cc |
Maximum power |
258 hp |
Maximum torque |
400 Nm |
Transmission |
8-speed automatic |
Mild-hybrid technology |
48V |
Drive type |
Rear-wheel drive |
0–100 km/h |
Approx. 6.45 sec |
The BMW 530Li M Sport uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine.
It generates 258 hp and 400 Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
This engine offers strong acceleration and a sporty driving experience.
Which sedan has better performance?
The BMW 5 Series is the performance winner in this comparison.
It offers more power than both the E 200 and E 220d. Its eight-speed automatic transmission also provides smooth and quick gear changes.
The E 220d, however, offers excellent low-end torque, making it suitable for relaxed highway driving.
Engine verdict: BMW 5 Series wins for acceleration and petrol performance. Mercedes E 220d is a good choice for buyers who prefer diesel torque and long-distance cruising.
5. Mileage Comparison
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration, even in the luxury sedan segment.
Mileage details |
Mercedes E-Class |
BMW 5 Series |
|---|---|---|
Petrol |
Depends on driving conditions |
15.7 km/l claimed |
Diesel |
Available |
Not available |
Automatic transmission |
Yes |
Yes |
Mild-hybrid assistance |
Yes |
Yes |
Fuel tank |
60 litres |
60 litres |
The BMW 5 Series LWB has a claimed fuel efficiency of approximately 15.7 km/l.
The Mercedes E-Class mileage varies depending on the selected engine and driving conditions. Its E 220d diesel version is expected to offer better fuel economy than the petrol E 200 in comparable driving conditions.
Mileage verdict: BMW offers a published 15.7 km/l figure for the 530Li, while the E 220d is worth considering for buyers prioritising diesel efficiency. Actual mileage will depend on traffic, driving style and road conditions.
6. Interior and Cabin Comparison
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| BMW 5 Series |
However, Mercedes focuses more on luxury and visual appeal, while BMW offers a modern and driver-focused interior.
Mercedes E-Class interior
The Mercedes E-Class features a premium dashboard with its impressive Superscreen layout.
Important interior highlights include:
14.4-inch central touchscreen.
12.3-inch digital instrument display.
Front passenger touchscreen.
Burmester 4D surround sound system.
Ambient lighting.
Four-zone automatic climate control.
Panoramic sunroof.
Wireless phone charging.
Powered front seats.
Premium upholstery.
Rear-seat reclining function.
Powered rear sunblinds.
The cabin feels luxurious, particularly because of the large screens, ambient lighting and premium materials.
BMW 5 Series interior
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| BMW 5 Series |
The BMW 5 Series offers a minimalist yet premium cabin with a curved display and sporty dashboard design.
Important interior highlights include:
14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
12.3-inch digital instrument display.
BMW iDrive infotainment system.
Wireless Apple CarPlay.
Wireless Android Auto.
Four-zone climate control.
Ventilated front seats.
Ambient lighting.
Panoramic glass roof.
Bowers & Wilkins audio system.
Wireless phone charging.
The BMW dashboard feels modern and practical, although its design is comparatively less dramatic than the Mercedes Superscreen.
Interior verdict: Mercedes E-Class wins for its impressive dashboard design, premium atmosphere and luxurious presentation. BMW 5 Series offers a cleaner and more driver-focused cabin.
7. Rear Seat Comfort Comparison
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| Mercedes E-Class |
Mercedes E-Class rear-seat comfort
The Mercedes E-Class offers a business-class-style rear-seat experience.
Its important rear-seat features include:
Powered rear-seat recline.
Powered seat-base extension.
Rear-seat ambient lighting.
Powered rear-window sunblinds.
Rear windscreen sunblind.
Four-zone climate control.
Rear AC vents.
Comfortable cushioning.
Generous legroom.
The rear-seat reclining function and powered sunblinds make the E-Class particularly attractive for chauffeur-driven owners.
BMW 5 Series rear-seat comfort
The BMW 5 Series also provides excellent rear-seat space, thanks to its long wheelbase.
Its rear-seat highlights include:
Spacious rear cabin.
Soft seat cushioning.
Four-zone climate control.
Rear AC vents.
Large fixed panoramic glass roof.
Comfortable seating position.
Generous legroom.
The BMW's rear seat cushioning feels softer, and its large glass roof makes the cabin feel airy.
However, it misses out on some of the Mercedes' powered rear-seat comfort features.
Rear-seat verdict: Mercedes E-Class is the winner for chauffeur-driven comfort, while BMW 5 Series offers excellent seat cushioning and a more open cabin atmosphere. Autocar India's direct comparison also favours the E-Class for its rear-seat luxury package.
8. Features Comparison
Features |
Mercedes E-Class |
BMW 5 Series |
|---|---|---|
Central touchscreen |
14.4-inch |
14.9-inch |
Digital instrument display |
12.3-inch |
12.3-inch |
Passenger display |
Yes |
No separate screen |
Panoramic sunroof |
Yes |
Yes |
Ambient lighting |
Yes |
Yes |
Four-zone climate control |
Yes |
Yes |
Ventilated front seats |
Yes |
Yes |
Rear powered reclining seats |
Yes |
No |
Powered rear sunblinds |
Yes |
No |
Premium audio |
Burmester 4D |
Bowers & Wilkins |
Wireless charging |
Yes |
Yes |
ADAS |
Level 2 |
Driving Assistant Plus |
Features verdict: Mercedes E-Class offers more luxurious rear-seat equipment and a more impressive screen setup. BMW 5 Series offers an excellent infotainment system and a strong technology package.
9. Safety Comparison
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
Mercedes E-Class safety features
Eight airbags.
Electronic Stability Control.
Anti-lock Braking System.
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.
Level 2 ADAS.
Active Brake Assist.
Lane-keeping assistance.
Blind Spot Assist.
ISOFIX child-seat anchors.
Parking assistance.
The Mercedes E-Class has received a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.
BMW 5 Series safety features
Seven airbags.
Electronic Stability Control.
Anti-lock Braking System.
Driving Assistant Plus.
Active Cruise Control.
Lane-keeping assistance.
Blind Spot Monitoring.
Front and rear collision warnings.
Cross-traffic warning.
Parking assistance.
The current-generation BMW 5 Series has also received a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.
Safety verdict: Both sedans offer strong safety packages and five-star Euro NCAP ratings. The Mercedes offers eight airbags, while BMW offers seven and an extensive driver-assistance package.
Euro NCAP ratings are based on the tested international specifications. Equipment and applicability can differ between Indian variants.
10. Ride Quality and Handling Comparison
Ride quality is particularly important in luxury sedans because owners expect comfort on city roads and highways.
Mercedes E-Class ride quality
The E-Class focuses on comfort and refinement. Its suspension is designed to provide a relaxed driving experience, especially for rear passengers.
Advantages:
Comfortable highway cruising.
Refined cabin experience.
Good suspension comfort.
Relaxed rear-seat experience.
Stable highway behaviour.
However, Autocar noted that the cabin can experience noticeable movement over uneven surfaces.
BMW 5 Series ride quality
The BMW 5 Series offers a surprisingly comfortable ride despite its sporty appearance.
Advantages:
Softer ride over bumps.
Good suspension refinement.
Better cornering confidence.
Smooth automatic gearbox.
Excellent highway stability.
More engaging driving experience.
Autocar's comparison found the BMW more composed over bumps and quieter in terms of road and tyre noise.
Ride quality verdict: BMW 5 Series wins for suspension comfort and handling balance, while Mercedes E-Class offers a more luxurious chauffeur-oriented experience.
11. Technology and Infotainment Comparison
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| BMW 5 Series |
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| Mercedes E-Class |
Technology |
Mercedes E-Class |
BMW 5 Series |
|---|---|---|
Touchscreen |
14.4-inch |
14.9-inch |
Digital instrument cluster |
12.3-inch |
12.3-inch |
Passenger screen |
Yes |
No |
Wireless Apple CarPlay |
Yes |
Yes |
Wireless Android Auto |
Yes |
Yes |
Voice assistant |
MBUX |
BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant |
Connected-car technology |
Yes |
Yes |
Premium sound system |
Burmester 4D |
Bowers & Wilkins |
The Mercedes offers a more dramatic technology experience because of its three-screen dashboard.
BMW offers a more straightforward digital interface with its curved display and iDrive system.
Technology verdict: Mercedes E-Class wins for screen presentation, while BMW 5 Series offers a more conventional and driver-focused interface.
12. Boot Space and Practicality
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| Mercedes E-Class |
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| BMW 5 Series |
Practicality |
Mercedes E-Class |
BMW 5 Series |
|---|---|---|
Seating capacity |
5 |
5 |
Boot capacity |
Varies by powertrain |
500 litres |
Rear-seat comfort |
Excellent |
Excellent |
Long-distance travel |
Excellent |
Excellent |
Ground clearance |
Approx. 135 mm |
Approx. 150 mm |
The BMW 5 Series offers a published 500-litre boot capacity. Mercedes boot capacity varies by version and should be checked against the specific variant brochure.
Practicality verdict: BMW has a confirmed 500-litre boot and slightly greater ground clearance. Both cars are suitable for long-distance family journeys.
13. Mercedes E-Class vs BMW 5 Series: Pros and Cons
Mercedes E-Class
Luxurious rear seats.
Powered reclining function.
Premium Superscreen.
Burmester 4D sound system.
Petrol and diesel options.
Five-star Euro NCAP rating.
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Excellent chauffeur comfort.
Disadvantages Higher starting price.
Extensive touchscreen controls.
Rear cabin movement over rough roads.
Lower ground clearance.
BMW 5 Series
More powerful petrol engine.
Faster acceleration.
Lower starting price.
Comfortable suspension.
Excellent handling.
500-litre boot.
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48V mild-hybrid technology.
Disadvantages No diesel option.
No powered rear-seat recline.
Fewer chauffeur-focused features.
Rear sunblinds are missing.
14. Which Mercedes E-Class Variant Should You Buy?
The Mercedes E-Class offers multiple engine configurations, so buyers can choose according to their driving requirements.
Variant |
Engine |
Approx. ex-showroom price |
|---|---|---|
E 200 Avantgarde |
2.0L Petrol |
₹81.50 lakh |
E 220d Avantgarde |
2.0L Diesel |
₹82–84 lakh |
E 450 4MATIC AMG Line |
3.0L Petrol |
₹93 lakh onwards |
Prices can vary with the latest model updates and variant availability.
My recommendation:
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E 200: Best for city driving and buyers who prefer petrol refinement.
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E 220d: Best for high-mileage users and frequent highway travellers.
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E 450: Best for buyers seeking six-cylinder performance and all-wheel drive.
For most private owners who drive relatively short distances, the E 200 is a sensible starting point.
15. Which BMW 5 Series Variant Should You Buy?
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| BMW 5 Series |
BMW India currently offers the 530Li M Sport Long Wheelbase as its main 5 Series configuration.
Variant |
Engine |
Ex-showroom price |
|---|---|---|
530Li M Sport |
2.0L Turbo-petrol |
₹76.60 lakh |
The 530Li M Sport comes with a powerful petrol engine, eight-speed automatic gearbox, panoramic glass roof, premium audio system, digital displays and extensive driver-assistance technology.
My recommendation: The BMW 530Li M Sport is the variant to consider if you want a luxury sedan that combines performance, comfort and value.
16. Mercedes E-Class vs BMW 5 Series: Final Comparison Table
Comparison |
Winner |
|---|---|
Starting price |
BMW 5 Series |
Exterior styling |
Subjective |
Interior luxury |
Mercedes E-Class |
Engine power |
BMW 5 Series |
Diesel availability |
Mercedes E-Class |
Acceleration |
BMW 5 Series |
Claimed petrol mileage |
BMW 5 Series |
Rear-seat comfort |
Mercedes E-Class |
Front-seat comfort |
Both |
Infotainment display |
Mercedes E-Class |
Ride quality |
BMW 5 Series |
Driving experience |
BMW 5 Series |
Chauffeur comfort |
Mercedes E-Class |
Boot space |
BMW 5 Series |
Safety |
Both |
Overall luxury experience |
Mercedes E-Class |
Value for money |
BMW 5 Series |
17. Which Luxury Sedan Should You Buy in 2026?
Buy the Mercedes E-Class if:
You prefer chauffeur-driven luxury.
You spend more time in the rear seat.
You want powered rear-seat reclining.
You prefer a premium three-screen dashboard.
You want a diesel engine option.
You value a traditional Mercedes luxury experience.
Buy the BMW 5 Series if:
You enjoy driving yourself.
You want stronger acceleration.
You prefer a sporty luxury sedan.
You want a comfortable suspension.
You want a lower starting price.
You prefer a powerful petrol engine.
Final Verdict
The Mercedes E-Class and BMW 5 Series are both excellent luxury sedans, but they serve slightly different requirements.
The Mercedes E-Class is the better choice for buyers who prioritise rear-seat comfort, premium cabin technology and chauffeur-driven luxury. Its powered rear-seat adjustments and sophisticated interior create a more special experience.
The BMW 5 Series is better for buyers who enjoy driving, want stronger performance and prefer a comfortable yet sporty luxury sedan. Its 258 hp petrol engine, eight-speed automatic gearbox and attractive starting price make it a compelling alternative.
Overall luxury winner: Mercedes E-Class.
Performance winner: BMW 5 Series.
Value-for-money winner: BMW 5 Series.
If you regularly travel with a chauffeur, choose the Mercedes E-Class. If you mostly drive yourself and want a balance of performance, comfort and luxury, the BMW 5 Series deserves your attention.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is better, Mercedes E-Class or BMW 5 Series?
Mercedes E-Class is better for rear-seat luxury and chauffeur comfort, while BMW 5 Series is better for performance, handling and value for money.
2. What is the starting price of Mercedes E-Class in India?
The Mercedes E-Class starts at approximately ₹81.50 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the current variant and pricing.
3. What is the starting price of BMW 5 Series in India?
The BMW 5 Series LWB starts at approximately ₹76.60 lakh (ex-showroom).
4. Which car has more power, Mercedes E-Class or BMW 5 Series?
The BMW 530Li produces 258 hp, compared with 204 hp from the E 200 petrol and 197 hp from the E 220d diesel.
5. Which sedan has better mileage?
The BMW 5 Series has a claimed fuel efficiency of 15.7 km/l. The Mercedes E 220d is another attractive option for buyers seeking diesel efficiency.
6. Which car is better for chauffeur-driven owners?
The Mercedes E-Class is better for chauffeur-driven owners because it offers powered rear-seat reclining, seat-base extension and powered sunblinds.
7. Does BMW 5 Series have a diesel engine?
No. The Indian BMW 5 Series LWB is currently offered with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol mild-hybrid engine.
8. Does Mercedes E-Class offer a diesel engine?
Yes. The Mercedes E 220d comes with a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine producing approximately 197 hp and 440 Nm.
9. Which car has better acceleration?
The BMW 530Li is quicker, with a tested 0–100 km/h time of approximately 6.45 seconds.
10. Which luxury sedan offers better value for money?
The BMW 5 Series offers a lower starting price and stronger petrol performance. However, the Mercedes E-Class offers additional luxury features and a diesel option.
