Seductive Sedans: BMW 5-Series vs Audi A6 vs Mercedes E-Class

You’re in the market for a slick European luxury sedan—but which one? The BMW 5-series, Audi A6, and Mercedes E-class are the standard bearers in this used car market segment. Buying low mileage used luxury sedans is more popular than ever—-and the reasons why are no mystery.

Despite the meteoric rise of the SUV and crossover in America’s love affair with machines of the road—-there are still a lot of people who prefer a conventional road car. That’s especially true when it comes to enthusiasts and traditionalists.

Sure, SUVs are roomy and offer a commanding view of the road ahead, but many people see the bigger ones as clumsy, lumbering beasts. They tend to use more fuel, and parking them can be a hassle. For many people, a pre-owned luxury sedan just makes more sense and they’re more enjoyable to drive on the daily—-we get it!

BMW 5-Series vs Audi A6 vs Mercedes E-Class. Which is the right German driving machine for you? Major World does the research, and we have the vehicles you want —- so, let’s get to it.

Option 1:  Used Low-Mileage BMW 5-Series Sedan

There are some very good reasons why the iconic BMW 5-Series sedan has been considered the gold standard among sporty European luxury sedans for decades. BMWs engineers have traditionally been motivated as much by a passion for driving as they are to focus on swaddling passengers in acres of butter-soft Nappa leather. BMWs are fun to drive, they look great and they exude success. What’s not to like?

Option 2:  Used Low-Mileage Audi A6 Sedan

The Audi A6 sedan presents a compelling option in the used performance luxury sedan space. It offers comparable luxury and performance to the well-known BMW 5-series and Mercedes E-class, but it’s less commonly seen, giving you an opportunity to stand out from the crowd. Audi was the first company to ship cars with full-time AWD with their revolutionary Quattro system. Every A6 sold in America has AWD standard, which isn’t true of BMW or Mercedes equivalents.

Option 3:  Used Low-Mileage Mercedes E-Class Sedan

The Mercedes E-Class sedan more than earned its place on this list. Mercedes-Benz is a storied and elegant brand that has the unique distinction of being the company that invented the automobile. It’s hard to top that. Mercedes-Benz’s proud history as an engineering powerhouse made it famous the world over. When it comes to newer car technologies, Mercedes is no slouch their either. Every Mercedes from the CLA Coupe, all the way up to the mighty S-class comes with state-of-art technology for comfort, safety and performance.

Side-by-Side Comparison: BMW 5-series vs Audi A6 vs Mercedes E-Class

Performance and Handling

BMW 5-Series

• Pros: Sportiest of the three; sharp handling; strong acceleration.
• Cons: Sporty suspension may be stiff for some; rear-wheel drive standard (all-wheel drive optional).

Audi A6

• Pros: Balanced performance; standard all-wheel drive enhances grip; smooth engines.
• Cons: Less engaging than the BMW; firmer ride due to sport suspension.

 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

• Pros: Smooth and comfortable ride; effortless acceleration.
• Cons: Less dynamic handling; prioritizes comfort over sportiness.

Interior Comfort and Features

BMW 5-Series

• Pros: Driver-centric layout; high-quality materials; comfortable seats.
• Cons: Some may find the design less innovative compared to rivals.

Audi A6

• Pros: Minimalist and modern interior; high-tech feel with multiple screens.
• Cons: Touchscreen controls can be less tactile; may show fingerprints.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

• Pros: Lavish interior; spacious cabin; supportive seats; quiet ride.
• Cons: MB Command system can be complex; premium feel comes at a higher cost.

 

Technology

BMW 5-Series

• Pros: iDrive system is straightforward; available gesture controls.
• Cons: Optional features can be pricey.

Audi A6

• Pros: Virtual Cockpit is a standout feature; advanced safety systems.
• Cons: Dependence on touchscreens may distract some drivers.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

• Pros: MBUX system with AI learning capabilities in newer models.
• Cons: Some users report a steeper learning curve.

 

Reliability and Maintenance

BMW 5-Series

Considerations: Requires regular maintenance; electronics can be a weak point.

Audi A6

Considerations: Reliability is average; maintenance can be costly without a warranty.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Considerations: Similar maintenance costs; reputation for longevity when properly cared for.

 

Our Final Verdict on the BMW 5-Series vs Audi A6 vs Mercedes E-Class Shootout

None of these cars have any glaring weaknesses, that much is clear. So what it really comes down to is priorities. Think about what’s most important to you. Is it handling and power? Cosseting luxury? Prestige? Practicality and all-weather performance?

For handling and performance, the BMW 5-series is generally the go-to choice of this pack.

For practicality and poor-weather performance, the Audi A6 is the one to get to the ski slopes.

For luxury and prestige, Mercedes-Benz is probably the without equal, short of Rolls-Royce and Bentley.

But, there is no substitute for the test drive when it comes to making sure a car is the right fit for you. Lucky for you, Major World usually has all three of these vehicles in our luxury car stable. That means you can test drive a BMW 5-series, Audi A6, Mercedes E-Class, and whatever else you want, back-to-back.

Major World Has Your Low-Mileage BMW, Benz or Audi

Look, the truth is you’re unlikely to be disappointed by any of these German automotive masterpieces. Buying a used luxury car is also the best way to enjoy the performance and luxury and let the other guy take the depreciation hit. It’s just smart.

That’s why so many of Major World’s customers are people who could easily buy a brand-new Mercedes E500 or a BMW M3. They come to us because they didn’t get to where they are by spending money like water.

Check out our online search portal before you visit. Our no-nonsense financing process is the best in the business. You can even pre-qualify yourself right now to save time, and it won’t harm your credit.

Don’t settle for less than the very best inventory of pre-owned European luxury sedans in Queens. You deserve the Major World standard of customer care. Give us a call now at (866) 614-2884.