BMW and Mercedes are two formidable German institutions that have no qualms going toe-to-toe – or wheel-to-wheel – which they have for years. This month, that fearlessness was on full display when both revealed new super saloons – the BMW M5 and the Mercedes E63 AMG. Both receive new styling and other updates, but the engines underneath have been left untouched. However, until they arrive, we can only compare the two on paper.
Hard-Faced
The BMW M5’s restyling remains faithful to the classic double kidney mask the Bavarian automaker is famous for, and they’re slightly larger than the ones on the normal 5 Series. However, they don’t grow as large as those on the 4 Series, which should please some. The Mercedes continues to use its Panamericana grille with vertical slats. The grilles for both exude sportiness while also helping improve airflow to the engines.
At The Back
At the rear, the two resort to similar solutions for design and functionality. The M5 has a slightly larger extractor paired with circular tailpipes, while the AMG features trapezoidal ones. However, both feature a small spoiler, a thin and unpainted piece of carbon fiber, perched on the trunk lid.
Between Technology and Sportiness
Inside, the M5 and E63 benefit from the technology installed in the lesser counterparts from which they’re derived. The Bavarian saloon features a 12.3-inch central monitor flanked by a 100-percent digital instrument cluster. The E63 packs the latest MBUX infotainment system with the dual tablet-style display.
Both have plenty of sportiness with wraparound seats, aluminum and carbon fiber inserts, supple leather, and plenty of Alcantara.
Learn More About The Super Sedans:
There Is Only The V8
Here’s the heart of the challenge: what lies under the hood. Both have V8 engines – 4.4 liters for the M5 and 4.0 liters for the E63 – without a hint of electrification in sight. Each feature two turbos, two power offerings, and automatic gearboxes. The M5 has eight gears in its gearbox while the E63 has nine.
The M5 produces 600 hp (447 kW) while the M5 Competition makes 617 hp (460 kW). The AMG starts with 563 hp (419 kW), but the S increases that to 603 hp (450 kW). That translates into very comparable performance numbers. The M5 and M5 Comp can hit 62 miles per hour (100 kilometers per hour) in 3.4 and 3.3 seconds, respectively. The E63 and E63 S take 3.5 and 3.4 seconds to complete the same run.
Both sedans come with all-wheel drive, but both can turn into tail-happy tire shredders with the touch of a few buttons. The BMW sends power to the rear with the touch of a button, though the Mercedes system only works if the driver also switches off ESP.
| BMW M5 | BMW M5 Competition | Mercedes E63 AMG | Mercedes E63 AMG S | |
| Engine | 4.4-liter Twin-Turbo V8 | 4.4-liter Twin-Turbo V8 | 4.0-liter Twin-Turbo V8 | 4.0-liter Twin-Turbo V8 |
| Horsepower | 600 (447 kW) | 617 (460 kW) | 563 (419 kW) | 603 (450 kW) |
| Torque | 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) | 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) | 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) | 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) |
| Top Speed | 189 mph (305 kph) / with M Driver’s Package | 189 mph (305 kph) / with M Driver’s Package | 155 mpg (250 kph) | 189 mph (300 kph) |
| Acceleration 0-100 kph (62 mph) | 3.4 seconds | 3.3 seconds | 3.5 seconds | 3.4 seconds |
Of course, there are specific differences between the two, each offering unique driving modes, features, and appearance packages. One significant difference between the two is the body style – both come in the form of a sedan, but Mercedes offers the E63 as a wagon.
So, which of these two super saloons would you park in your garage?
Gallery: BMW M5 vs Mercedes E63 AMG