VS
At a Glance
Power
717hp @ 5600
496hp @ 5500
Torque
738lb-ft @ 1800
516lb-ft @ 2000
Fuel
—
22 mpg est.
Engine
4.4 L/268ci
4.0 L/243ci
Choosing between the BMW M5 and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The BMW M5 delivers 717hp @ 5600 while the Mercedes-Benz S-Class produces 496hp @ 5500. Pricing starts at $119,500 for the M5 and $119,550 for the S-Class. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Specification
BMW M5Sedan 2025 - From $119,500
Mercedes-Benz S-ClassMaybach S 580 4MATIC Sedan 2026 - From $119,550
Performance
Power Output (hp)
717hp @ 5600
496hp @ 5500
Torque (lb-ft)
738lb-ft @ 1800
516lb-ft @ 2000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
4.4 L/268ci
4.0 L/243ci
Cylinders
8
8
Fuel Type
Plug-In Hybrid
—
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
—
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy (Combined, est.)
—
22 mpg est.
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
—
16mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
—
27mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
15.9gal
20gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
200.6in
215.3in
Width (in)
77.6in
75.6in
Height (in)
59.4in
59.4in
Wheelbase (in)
118.3in
133.7in
Curb Weight (lbs)
5390lbs
5137lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
BMW M5
1 / 4 categories
Performance
M5
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Tied
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
BMW M5
Lower starting price ($119,500)
Few notable weaknesses
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the M5 or S-Class?
The M5 produces 717hp @ 5600 and 738lb-ft @ 1800 of torque while the S-Class delivers 496hp @ 5500 and 516lb-ft @ 2000 of torque. The M5 is the more powerful option.
What is the price difference between the M5 and S-Class?
The M5 starts from $119,500 and the S-Class from $119,550, a difference of just $50, which is negligible. At this price point the two are essentially tied on starting price. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the M5 or the S-Class?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider