Entry level test: BMW 5-Series Vs Mercedes E-Class

Look back through automotive history, and you’ll be hard pushed to find a rivalry fiercer than the one between Mercedes and BMW. Their E-Class and 5-Series models are just the latest in a long line of saloons that have fought tooth and nail for the executive car crown.

In the past, they have gone about their business in very different ways.

If driver involvement was your priority, then the 5-Series was the obvious choice, but if you valued space and comfort, the E-Class was the one to go for.

Today, the boundaries between the two are more blurred than ever, as both ranges provide everything from comfort-spec cruisers to powerful super-saloons.

The Mercedes E220 CDI Sport was beaten in its debut test by the Jaguar XF, but in lesser SE trim it doesn’t compete with our class leader. Instead, it goes head-to-head with its BMW rival.

Does the E220 CDI SE have the space, comfort, refinement, badge appeal and economy that we’ve come to expect from the three-pointed star? Or will it be overtaken by the 520d SE in this clash of the entry executives?

Verdict

Image-conscious executive car buyers are obsessed by brand, but which of our pair is the better prestige saloon?

It’s clear that Mercedes benchmarked its newcomer against the 5-Series, because the two are incredibly well matched.

Neither is aimed at motorists who want a performance car, though, so does that cost the sharper-handling 5-Series?

The BMW certainly provides more feedback, and offers a smooth and punchy diesel engine – but its talents run deeper than its polished dynamics.

The Mercedes has a light, spacious and airy cabin, with good ride comfort and gutsy performance. However, the easy-to-drive E220 CDI narrowly misses out here.

With so little to split this duo on paper, it comes down to the way they look, drive and feel. As a result, the more polished 520d SE gets our vote... but only just.

 * 1st:

BMW 520d SE

A comfortable but sporty interior, sharp looks, impressive handling and punchy engine meet excellent economy and emissions.

The BMW is reaching the twilight of its career, yet the 520d is still a force to be reckoned with.

2nd:

Mercedes E220 CDI SE

The E220 matches a spacious cabin, lots of kit and punchy performance with the cachet of the three-pointed star – making it the most attractive engine and trim combination in the range.

But while the E-Class is a good car, it’s not a great one.