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 wins for those prioritizing ultimate luxury, a wider range of powerful engines, and superior cargo capacity, albeit at a significantly higher price. However, the BMW 3 Series remains the champion for drivers seeking a more agile, sporty sedan with impressive performance and better value, making it ideal for daily spirited driving.
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Price Comparison
Starting at18,200 OMR30,495 – 35,995 OMR
Engine & Power
Engine1,997 cc · 4 cyl1,991 – 3,982 cc · 4 – 8 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)245 hp184 – 612 hp
Torque (Nm)350 Nm300 – 850 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)5.9 s3.4 – 7.7 s
Top Speed (Km/h)250 km/h240 – 250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)6.4 L/100km5.9 – 9.1 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity60 L50 – 66 L
Gears89
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeRear Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Battery Size—25.4 kWh
Battery Range (km)—109 km
Measurements
L×W×H4.6 m × 2.0 m × 1.4 m4.9 m × 1.9 m × 1.5 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.8 m2.9 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,505 kg1,530 – 1,880 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)368 L540 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)AirbagsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACBA (Brake Assist)Body Colored Bumper - Front and RearBody Colored MirrorsCD PlayerCentral LockingChrome Exhaust PipesCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDifferential LockDisc BrakesDoor Handles - Body ColoredDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeFabric SeatsFog Lamp - Front and RearFront Seat ArmrestISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Steering WheelMP3Multi-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeOdometerPower SteeringPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRun-Flat TyresSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSeatbeltsSeatsSteering Tilt AdjustmentTraction ControlTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayWheel SizeWheels - Alloy
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 Executive Comfort

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers a more spacious and luxurious cabin, a longer wheelbase, and a significantly larger 540 L trunk, making it ideal for executive transport and long-distance comfort.

2

Best for Driving Enthusiasts

The BMW 3 Series, with its 245 hp engine, 5.9-second acceleration, and rear-wheel-drive setup, provides a more engaging and nimble driving experience for those who prioritize sportiness.

3

Best for Budget-Conscious Luxury

The BMW 3 Series starts at 18,200 OMR, offering a premium driving experience at a much more accessible price point compared to the E-Class Saloon.

4

Best for Eco-Conscious Performance

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers a plug-in hybrid variant with a 109 km electric range, providing a greener option for daily commutes without sacrificing performance.

Pros & cons

BMW 3 Series

Pros

  • More affordable starting price (18,200 OMR)
  • Sportier, more agile handling (RWD, lighter kerb weight)
  • Quicker acceleration for its base model (5.9 s)
  • Consistently good fuel economy (6.4 L/100km)

Cons

  • Smaller trunk capacity (368 L)
  • No plug-in hybrid option available
  • Less powerful top-end engine compared to E-Class
  • No AWD option listed

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon

Pros

  • Wider range of engine options, up to 612 hp
  • Significantly larger trunk capacity (540 L)
  • Available plug-in hybrid with 109 km electric range
  • More luxurious and spacious interior (longer wheelbase)
  • Optional All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction

Cons

  • Significantly higher starting price (30,495 OMR)
  • Heavier kerb weight (up to 1,880 kg)
  • Base model acceleration is slower (7.7 s)
  • Lower fuel economy on high-performance trims (9.1 L/100km)

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is generally considered better for luxury and comfort. It boasts a larger overall length and wheelbase, contributing to a more spacious and refined cabin experience, along with a significantly larger 540 L trunk. For those prioritizing an executive feel and passenger comfort, the E-Class is the superior choice.

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

While the BMW 3 Series offers impressive performance with its 245 hp engine and 5.9-second acceleration, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon ultimately offers a wider range of performance, with top trims reaching up to 612 hp and accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. If you seek the absolute pinnacle of power, the E-Class has higher-tier options.

Which is more fuel-efficient, the BMW 3 Series or the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon in Oman?

The BMW 3 Series offers a consistent fuel economy of 6.4 L/100km, which is very competitive. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon has a broader range, with its most efficient variant achieving 5.9 L/100km and a plug-in hybrid option. For consistent, good fuel efficiency across its range, the 3 Series is strong, but the E-Class base or PHEV can be more efficient.

What is the price difference between the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

There is a significant price difference between the two models. The BMW 3 Series starts at 18,200 OMR, making it a more accessible premium sedan. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon has a starting price of 30,495 OMR, reflecting its positioning in a higher luxury segment.

Which car has more cargo space, the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon?

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon offers considerably more cargo space with a trunk capacity of 540 L. The BMW 3 Series, while still practical, has a smaller trunk capacity of 368 L. For buyers who frequently need to carry luggage or larger items, the E-Class Saloon is the clear winner in terms of boot space.