Mercedes-Benz Vs. BMW: Choosing a Used Car from German Brands

Based on the car sales statistics from our dealership, BMW and Mercedes-Benz manufacturers are always on the list of leaders in the used car market. Therefore, those who want to become the owner of a reliable car often have a question: what is better - a BMW or a Mercedes? Today, Indy Auto Man representatives compare these two brands to help you define your winner and choose a used BMW or Mercedes in Indianapolis. 

Main Differences Between BMW and Mercedes

The core difference between Mercedes and BMW is their character. BMW is a drive, aggression, and adrenaline. BMW's slogan is "driving pleasure" and they go all out to make sure the driver is enjoying speed driving.

Mercedes is, above all, comfort, smoothness, and peace of mind. That is, almost the complete opposite of BMW. Get behind the wheel of a Mercedes and experience luxury, safety, and relax while getting to your destination. Comfort comes first. But this does not mean that a Mercedes is slower than a BMW. In this matter, they are approximately equal.

Making a Choice: Is Mercedes Better Than BMW?

The choice is quite simple to make. To do this, just come to the Indy Auto Man used car dealer in Indianapolis and drive BMW and Mercedes cars of the same class. For example, the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E Class or the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C Class. Simply put, the cars must be of the same weight category. After this, you will know what car you want. The question of BMW or Mercedes rarely remains open after a test drive.

Main Characteristics: Comparing Mercedes and BMW

The two German auto giants have only conditional rivalry and confrontation. For the enterprises themselves, there is no significant difference in whether BMW or Mercedes models are better. In reality, the companies are closely interconnected, which allows them to always be at approximately the same level. You can see the similarities in the rear-wheel drive, ignition switches, power unit arrangement, spring suspensions, and other little things.

Reliability: Which Car Lasts Longer, Mercedes or BMW?

In reliability, the confrontation between Mercedes and BMW does not allow us to name an undisputed favorite. In many ways, these are benchmark brands that other automakers should emulate. However, given the aggressiveness of BMW owners towards their cars, they break down more often. All other things being equal, Mercedes cars still take the lead in reliability. Even hardcore fans of the Bavarian automaker admit this fact. Mercedes is known for making super reliable cars. They're popular for work in luxury taxis and other stuff. Moreover, Mercedes specialists developed advanced braking systems and improved belts and airbags, which other companies, including BMW, adopted.

Pricing Policy and Service: Is It Cheaper to Maintain a BMW or Mercedes?

Let's start with the pricing policy for the new BMW and Mercedes cars. Cars of the two German brands are expensive, and prices for new models are at approximately the same level. But over the past year, the BMW manufacturers have applied a more loyal pricing policy, and the cost of cars has decreased slightly. Mercedes didn't change anything in the price positioning. Because of this, a small, but still valuable advantage is on the side of BMW.

 However, potential buyers are interested in what is cheaper to maintain among Mercedes and BMW cars. Here, both brands are positioned as very expensive in terms of operating costs. Only spare parts for the cars of the BMW automaker turned out to be somewhat more expensive compared to Mercedes.

Another key expense item: only high-quality fuel is suitable for these vehicles. Those who buy diesel versions should be especially careful when choosing a filling station. These engines are economical and efficient, but if you use bad diesel fuel, you will have to spend a lot on repairs.

Fuel consumption depends on the specific class of the car and the installed engine. Several models with economical engines are available in the Mercedes lineup. The bulk of BMW engines have increased power, thus demanding more fuel.

At the same time, some modified engines from BMW and Mercedes are created based on modern and advanced technologies. With a relatively small volume of internal combustion engines, they manage to extract an impressive amount of horsepower from it without compromising engine life. As a result, the motors are powerful and economical with excellent dynamics. Even large crossovers can consume up to 10 liters of fuel in the city, especially gasoline. And diesel versions even show a consumption of 5-6 liters per 60 miles, while having at least 150 horsepower under the hood.

Motors and Chassis

In terms of the operation of the chassis and steering, it is difficult to identify an obvious favorite between BMW and Mercedes. After all, Mercedes offers exceptional steering responsiveness and, at the same time, smooth maneuvering. There is an ideal balance in the brakes, gearbox, steering wheel, clutch, and engine operation.

BMW offers a more aggressive driving style with sharp cornering and a complete sense of control. At the same time, there is no noticeable roll even in fast turns.

It is also problematic to answer the question of whether Mercedes or BMW cars will be faster. The result depends on the specific model and modification. Every brand has extreme versions. In the case of BMW, the so-called M package is offered, and Mercedes has variations of models with the AMG prefix.

In constructive and technical terms, Mercedes offers quite complex engines, which not all car repair shops can service. At the same time, they are distinguished by increased reliability and the longest possible service life. Here, BMW is somewhat inferior.

Distinctive Features of Mercedes-Benz and BMW Cars

Mercedes' front suspension speaks well for them. It is noticeably superior to the solution from BMW. Like Mercedes engines, many dealers and car owners call the suspension eternal. This is because the rated load falls on the support beam, not the car body. Because of this, Mercedes are nicknamed indestructible cars.

But BMW also has something to answer to its conventional competitor. Here, it is worth focusing on dynamics and steering. BMW creates the most highly efficient engines in the world. The rear suspension of the cars of the Bavarian automaker is exemplary in many respects. However, the front structure does not have a high level of resistance. BMWs are designed not for regular use in rural areas and regions with downright bad roads.

Results: Whether to Buy a Used BMW or Mercedes?

• Mercedes is positioned as a car for passengers, except for some extreme models and sports modifications. These cars show their best side in organizing internal comfort. They are ideal for long trips. These are noble cars that are rare guests in conventional street racing.
• BMW is chosen by those who want to get behind the wheel, feel the drive, keep everything under their control, and get pleasure from the driving process. If you don't want to sit in the back chatting with passengers or being on your phone going through business papers, get a BMW.

By choosing a car from any of the two manufacturers, you won’t regret it. These are excellent, high-quality, reliable, and safe cars. Yes, they are expensive to buy even on the secondary market, and costly to service and maintain. At the same time, German cars fully justify all costs.

The Indy Auto Man Indianapolis car lot can offer an array of used BMW and Mercedes cars. Please browse our inventory online and visit the dealership for a test drive at any time convenient to you.