Proton S16 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.
Proton S16: we're still completing price, 0-100km/h and braked towing.
A blank cell below means we don't have that figure, not that the car scores badly on it. We leave them empty rather than estimate, so any row where one car is blank isn't a like-for-like comparison yet.
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Price Breakdown
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The BMW 7 Series counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, head-up display, wireless charging, panoramic roof, heated front seats, ventilated seats, power tailgate, Harman Kardon audio and ambient lighting that the Proton S16 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Proton S16 uses a Petrol producing 80kW and 150Nm of torque, sent through a 5 speed manual to a FWD layout.
The BMW 7 Series responds with a Petrol making 280kW and 540Nm, paired to a auto driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 5.4 seconds.
The BMW 7 Series has the clear power advantage at 280kW vs 80kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Proton S16 measures 4,278mm long on a 2,465mm wheelbase, 1113mm 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.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
5.3m to 12.5m
Based on 5.3m 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
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars1 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,767/year for the Proton S16 and $2,252/year for the BMW 7 Series. That is a $485 annual difference in favour of the Proton S16.
Estimated annual total: $1,767 (Proton S16) vs $2,252 (BMW 7 Series). The Proton S16 saves you roughly $485 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 3 years (Proton S16) vs 5 years / 999,999km (BMW 7 Series). The BMW 7 Series has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Proton S16 if: You want lower running costs, or prefer Proton's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BMW 7 Series if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer BMW's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BMW 7 Series takes 2 of 3 key spec categories. The Proton S16 will save you roughly $485 a year in fuel. The BMW 7 Series adds peace of mind with a longer 5-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Proton S16 and BMW 7 Series?
The BMW 7 Series is the cheapest at $279,900 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Proton S16 uses the least fuel at 6.2L/100km on the combined cycle.
What are the ANCAP safety ratings?
None of Proton S16 and BMW 7 Series carry a published ANCAP rating yet — check back as they are tested.
Which can tow the most?
The BMW 7 Series has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The BMW 7 Series has the longest warranty at 5 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The BMW 7 Series makes the most power at 280kW.
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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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