Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs BMW 7 Series
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
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 S-Class starts from $278,900 before on-road costs, while the BMW 7 Series opens at $279,900. That makes the Mercedes-Benz S-Class the more affordable entry point by $1,000.
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 $306,790 and $307,890 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The BMW 7 Series packs more ADAS features with 8 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 7 in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 9 in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and 8 in the BMW 7 Series.
Feature Showdown
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class features a 12.8-inch touchscreen, while the BMW 7 Series gets a 14.9-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class stands out with Burmester audio that you will not find on the BMW 7 Series. The BMW 7 Series counters with power tailgate and Bowers & Wilkins audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class uses a Petrol producing 320kW and 520Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.9 seconds.
The BMW 7 Series responds with a Petrol making 280kW and 520Nm, paired to a auto driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 4.9 seconds.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has the clear power advantage at 320kW vs 280kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class measures 5,179mm long on a 3,106mm wheelbase, 212mm shorter than the BMW 7 Series at 5,391mm (3,215mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BMW 7 Series generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 510L in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and 500L in the BMW 7 Series, giving the Mercedes-Benz S-Class a 10L advantage.
For towing, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class leads with a 2,100kg braked capacity vs 2,000kg. That 100kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.0m to 12.5m
Based on 12.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.5m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,480/year for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and $2,565/year for the BMW 7 Series. That is a $85 annual difference in favour of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
Estimated annual total: $2,480 (Mercedes-Benz S-Class) vs $2,565 (BMW 7 Series). The Mercedes-Benz S-Class saves you roughly $85 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz S-Class) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW 7 Series). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mercedes-Benz S-Class if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, need stronger towing, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW 7 Series if: You or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class takes 5 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class will save you roughly $85 a year in fuel. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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