BMW 3 Series vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon: Which Should You Buy in Oman?

A complete comparison of the ⁦BMW 3 Series⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across Oman.

⁦BMW 3 Series⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon⁩: the verdict

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is the clear winner for buyers prioritizing ultimate luxury, executive comfort, and top-tier performance, especially given its superior maximum power and trunk space. However, the BMW 3 Series offers a compelling package for those seeking a sportier drive, better fuel efficiency, and a more accessible entry price point.
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Price Comparison
Starting at25,999 – 32,999 OMR29,995 – 38,890 OMR
Engine & Power
Engine1,998 cc · 4 cyl1,991 – 3,982 cc
Horsepower (bhp)184 – 252 hp184 – 612 hp
Torque (Nm)300 – 350 Nm300 – 850 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)5.8 – 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 – 6.2 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 – 1,570 kg1,530 – 1,880 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)480 L540 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors—
Features
Key features
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringAdaptive Brake LightsAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAirbagsAlloy 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)BluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleClimate ControlCollision DetectionCompassCool boxCornering LightsCruise 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 SunroofFire 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 SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsLegroomLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresParking 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 Window DefoggerRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeatbelt pretensionerSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlActive BonnetActive HeadrestsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAirbagsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAppsAttention AssistAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored MirrorsCargo Area LightCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCornering LightsCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHill AssistIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizerIntelligent KeyInternet ConnectivityISOFIX 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 SystemPaddle 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 DefoggerRoad Sign AssistScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSpeed LimiterSport PedalsSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTemperature DisplayTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTyre 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 Drivers Who Prioritize Agility

The BMW 3 Series, with its lighter kerb weight starting at 1,450 kg, offers a more nimble and engaging driving experience, making it ideal for enthusiasts who value sporty handling.

2

Best for Executive Comfort and Space

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon provides a more opulent cabin and a larger 540 L trunk, making it the superior choice for those seeking executive-level comfort and practicality for longer journeys.

3

Best for Value-Conscious Luxury

Starting at 25,999 OMR, the BMW 3 Series presents a more affordable entry into the premium sedan segment, offering significant luxury and performance without the higher initial investment.

4

Best for Ultimate Performance

For thrill-seekers, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon stands out with up to 612 hp and 850 Nm of torque, delivering blistering acceleration of 3.4 seconds for its top-tier variants.

Pros & cons

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • More accessible starting price (25,999 OMR)
  • Superior base fuel economy (5.5 L/100km)
  • Lighter kerb weight for agile handling (1,450 kg)
  • Faster entry-level acceleration (7.1 seconds)

Cons

  • Smaller trunk space (480 L)
  • Lower maximum power output (252 hp)
  • Fewer transmission gears (8-speed automatic)
  • Higher trims might feel less opulent than E-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon

Pros

  • Significantly larger maximum trunk capacity (540 L)
  • Higher maximum power output (612 hp)
  • Higher maximum torque (850 Nm)
  • Faster top-tier acceleration (3.4 seconds)
  • More sophisticated 9-speed transmission

Cons

  • Higher starting price (29,995 OMR)
  • Lower base fuel economy (5.9 L/100km)
  • Heavier kerb weight (1,530 kg)
  • Slower entry-level acceleration (7.7 seconds)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon better for luxury?

While both are premium sedans, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon generally offers a more luxurious and refined cabin experience, especially in its higher trims, making it the preferred choice for those prioritizing opulent comfort. The E-Class also boasts a larger trunk for added practicality.

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

For ultimate performance, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is superior, offering engines with up to 612 hp and an acceleration of just 3.4 seconds in its top-tier variants. The BMW 3 Series, while sporty, peaks at 252 hp and 5.8 seconds for its fastest model.

Between the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon, which is more fuel-efficient?

The BMW 3 Series generally offers better fuel efficiency, with its most economical variant achieving 5.5 L/100km. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon starts at 5.9 L/100km, making the 3 Series a more economical choice at the pump.

Which car has more trunk space: BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers significantly more trunk space, with a capacity of 540 L. In comparison, the BMW 3 Series provides 480 L, making the E-Class a more practical option for carrying luggage or larger items.