[Jocky Wilson]

Hi all,

I know it's all subjective but it seems to me that the general perception of BMW vs Mercedes (at least in the UK) is that the 5 Series is a better car than an E-Class Merc, however the S-Class Merc is seen as a better car than the 7 Series.

Car review generally bear this out, as do 2nd hand resale values of the above mentioned cars.

I've often wondered why this is, as seems to me that the 7 series is really quite similar to the 5 series, and likewise with the E & S Class cars.

Can anyone perhaps shed some light on this for me? (I don't consider myself a well oiled petrol head at all so sorry if this question is a bit naive - it just seems strange to me....)

Jocky

[HighlandPete]

Not exactly sure of how the conclusions are reached myself. I sense some of it is the luxury feel of the Merc, particularly ride quality in the bigger models, and the more sporty image still retained in the 5-series. But that can only be part of it. Technology appears similar.

Some of it must be user perceptions, also interested to hear other opinions.

HighlandPete

[E60MKF]

When it comes to the 5 vs the E, BMW is the hands down winner. For all the reason why we love our cars! Most people buy an E class because it's a mercedes. But as much as I love BMW, the interior of the 7 isn't that much better than the 5 and doesn't really warrant that of a car in the 7 series tier. The s class is far superior with a more luxurious interior. The only area the 7 might be better is the drive.

[Piers]

Originally Posted by E60MKF

When it comes to the 5 vs the E, BMW is the hands down winner. For all the reason why we love our cars! Most people buy an E class because it's a mercedes. But as much as I love BMW, the interior of the 7 isn't that much better than the 5 and doesn't really warrant that of a car in the 7 series tier. The s class is far superior with a more luxurious interior. The only area the 7 might be better is the drive.

Well put. The S is head and shoulders above the 7. We have two S class at work, a SWB and a LWB, as well as a 7, there is no comparison.

However, I would take the 7 all day though...let me explain... There are two reasons for buying the S, you are over 50 years old and driving is now not a form of fun ( no offence please!), more an A to B journey, or you have a driver, which both of our S classes have.

The S is too big to put in ANY UK parking space, and parallel parking is a joke even with all the cameras, not that the 7 is easy!

The ride quality of the S class is second to none at this price point, very very pleasant, but a bit of a boat to actually drive. The 7 is very similar to the 5 F10 is dynamic terms, hence I would take it, even with a driver occasionally.

[Piers]

BTW - 5 vs E, same argument, but less redeeming features in the E than the S.

The only reason that Mercedes keep up in terms of sale numbers is cheaper finance than BMW

[E60MKF]

Originally Posted by Piers

BTW - 5 vs E, same argument, but less redeeming features in the E than the S.

The only reason that Mercedes keep up in terms of sale numbers is cheaper finance than BMW

I find bmw finance to be A LOT more competitive than mercedes with all the cars even when comparing the S and 7 or even the 5 vs the E. The deposits for most BMWs are next to nothing and the monthly price is still the same or even less than merc.

[dippo]

I think Mercedes sales are holding up well because they are perceived as an older person's car, and Britain has an ageing population.

[Balster]

Most of my 'older' relatives drive a Merc - nice car.
It will always be tainted as an old mans car.
That foot brake is a nightmare too.
Merc also has a very bland image when compared to a BMW.

[The Beast]

Simple Merc for ride quality and BMW for balance of the ride and handling.

My dad is on his 10th Merc and loves them, but don't handle well enough for me.

Having said that I bought my wife the new A Class, because had two 1 Series and fancied a change. Looks a lot better (with 8k of options!!!) but 1 Series better to drive and infotainment system streets ahead!