BMW 5 Series vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 651,514 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The BMW 5 Series edges ahead in this comparison with an 89% MOT pass rate versus 85% for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The BMW 5 Series has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the Mercedes-Benz E-Class may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
BMW 5 Series
89%
MOT pass rate
155,556 tests
More reliableMercedes-Benz E-Class
85%
MOT pass rate
495,958 tests
Full Comparison: BMW 5 Series vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class
| Category | BMW 5 Series | Mercedes-Benz E-Class |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 89%Winner | 85% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 11%Winner | 15% |
| vs All-Model Avg | +7 ptsWinner | +3 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £2,267 | £2,267 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 30-42 | 30-42 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £3,000-£5,000 | £3,000-£5,000 |
| Engine Size | 2.6L | 2.6L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel, Hybrid | Diesel, Petrol, Electric |
| Segment | Premium performance | Premium performance |
| Avg Mileage | 113,218 mi | 105,685 miWinner |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 155,556 | 495,958 |
| Model Years | 30 years | 34 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (93%)Winner | 2021 (92%) |
| Worst Year | 1999 (71%) | 1997 (77%)Winner |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Pass rates are the share of MOT tests that ended in a pass (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included), across all years of each model. Best and worst years need at least 100 tests. Fuel cost, insurance group and depreciation are our rough estimates from engine size and make, not official figures.
Common Problems Comparison
Typical issues to check on cars of this type and age, not faults measured for these models.
BMW 5 Series: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Higher tyre and brake wear (larger engine)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Higher tyre and brake wear (larger engine)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
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BMW 5 Series vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class FAQ
Can I compare a BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class by registration plate?
Yes. Enter each car's UK registration plate on this page or use our free compare tool at carcostcheck.co.uk/compare to see MOT history, mileage, health scores and running costs for the exact vehicles you are considering, not just model averages.
Which is more reliable, the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
The BMW 5 Series has the higher MOT pass rate, 89% compared to 85% for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
At 8,000 miles per year, the BMW 5 Series costs around £2,267 in fuel, while the Mercedes-Benz E-Class costs around £2,267 (our estimates for petrol versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 19 October 2026). On these estimates they cost the same in fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
The BMW 5 Series edges ahead in this comparison with an 89% MOT pass rate versus 85% for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The BMW 5 Series has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the Mercedes-Benz E-Class may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
BMW 5 Series Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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