5 Series vs EQE
This is a classic rivalry: the 5 Series against the EQE, BMW against Mercedes-Benz, both in midsize luxury car territory. Where they differ, they differ gently, which makes the few meaningful gaps worth a closer look.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance EQE wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
Key Differences
-
The EQE has 33 hp more power
Only a little separates them: 288 hp on the EQE, 255 hp on the 5 Series. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
EQE leads
On engine & performance, the difference is modest, and it favors the EQE. In its favor, the EQE has 33 hp more power. The EQE’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed. The takeaway: on engine & performance, the EQE is the stronger car.
Total system output
5 Series: 255 hp EQE: 288 hp Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
Neither pulls ahead on space & practicality; the numbers are close throughout. So space & practicality is a non-factor here; move on to the areas where they actually differ.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
There’s little to choose between them when it comes to off-road & towing. On off-road & towing alone, you can’t go far wrong with either.
Safety & Tech
The safety & tech data here comes as names and types, not scores. Check the table to see what each one uses.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | 5 Series | EQE |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas (48V mild hybrid) | Electric |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | Single rear electric motor |
| Total system output | 255 hp | 288 hp (winner) |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | N/A (not specified) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 1-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | RWD (xDrive AWD available) | RWD (4MATIC AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | 5 Series | EQE |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 31 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 28 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 35 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 308 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | 5 Series | EQE |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | 5 Series | EQE |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | 5 Series | EQE |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the EQE if…
- you merge, overtake or climb hills with a full load (288 hp vs 255 hp)
- you’re comfortable with how Mercedes-Benz does things
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the 5 Series or the EQE?
On the specs compared here, the EQE makes more sense for most buyers; the 5 Series doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Brand loyalty aside, I tried to judge the 5 Series and the EQE purely on what they offer. My main argument for the EQE? It comes with 33 hp more power.
Fit matters more than scores here. The 5 Series suits buyers focused on the things a spec sheet can’t capture; the EQE suits those focused on engine & performance.
My pick: the EQE.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.