Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance vs BMW i5
Two electric Sedans go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance starts from $189,900 before on-road costs, while the BMW i5 opens at $155,900. That makes the BMW i5 the more affordable entry point by $34,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $208,890 and $171,490 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance and BMW i5 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The BMW i5 packs more ADAS features with 7 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 6 in the Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. The BMW i5 adds a 360-degree camera that the Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance misses.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance stands out with ventilated seats and Burmester audio that you will not find on the BMW i5. The BMW i5 counters with wireless charging and Harman Kardon audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance uses a Hybrid producing 500kW and 1020Nm of torque, sent through a 9-speed auto to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 3.4 seconds.
The BMW i5 responds with a Electric making 250kW and 430Nm, paired to a auto driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 5.7 seconds.
The Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance has the clear power advantage at 500kW vs 250kW. In the real-world sprint, the Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance is 2.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 6.1kWh (Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance) vs 84kWh (BMW i5).
Space & Comfort
The Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance measures 4,842mm long on a 2,865mm wheelbase, 218mm shorter than the BMW i5 at 5,060mm (2,995mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW i5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 359L in the Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance and 500L in the BMW i5, giving the BMW i5 a 141L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.9m diameter
Average
Based on 11.9m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW i5). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW i5 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BMW i5 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the BMW i5 has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance and BMW i5?
The BMW i5 is the cheapest at $155,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance by $34,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance uses the least fuel at 6.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance and BMW i5 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The BMW i5 has the largest boot at 500L.
Which can tow the most?
The BMW i5 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,000kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance makes the most power at 500kW. The Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E Performance is quickest to 100km/h in 3.4s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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