Luxury Saloons Showdown: BMW 7 Series vs Mercedes-Benz S-Class - The Drag Race Results Will Shock You
Over in the United States, the world of luxury saloons is abuzz with the latest battle between two titans: the BMW 7 Series and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Both these German engineering marvels come equipped with plug-in hybrid setups, boasting six-cylinder engines beneath their hoods. Recently, the duo was put to the test by Sam CarLegion, a renowned YouTube channel that specializes in auto reviews and drag races. And as anticipated, this head-to-head comparison included an epic drag race.
Under the Hood: A Battle of the Specs
The Munich-based automaker claims that the 2024 BMW 750e xDrive Sedan churns out an impressive 483 horsepower and offers 516 pound-feet (700 Nm) of torque. For those eager to know the numbers, BMW advertises a zero to 60 miles per hour time of 4.6 seconds, which translates to roughly 4.8 seconds for the 100 kilometers per hour sprint. This powerhouse is driven by BMW's latest six-cylinder engine, the B58 single-turbo I6, sharing a lineage with the M-specific S58 engine.
Over at Mercedes, the S 580e 4MATIC Sedan is a bit heftier, tipping the scales at 5,606 pounds (2,542 kilograms), significantly thanks to its larger 22.7 kWh battery compared to BMW's 14.4 kWh unit. Mercedes counters with its M256 inline-six engine, dishing out a hefty 510 horsepower and 553 pound-feet (691 Nm) of torque. Power is delivered to all four wheels via the brand's reputable 9G-Tronic automatic transmission. While BMW has a reputation for somewhat conservative power figures, Mercedes is known for being quite accurate with its numbers.
The Drag Race: On and Off the Line
As the flag dropped and the drag race commenced, the BMW 750e demonstrated its prowess right off the line, maintaining a solid lead over the Mercedes S 580e all the way to the finish. While Sam CarLegion did not release the specific quarter-mile times and speeds, it's clear that the BMW had a more robust launch control and transmission calibration, which gave it a significant edge.
Additionally, a braking test from 100 kilometers per hour to a complete stop further underscored the BMW's superiority, coming to a halt in a shorter distance than the Mercedes. This reflects not just the power under the hood but the overall driveline and suspension setup that BMW brings to the table.
Design and Comfort Elements
From an aesthetic viewpoint, the S-Class arguably holds an edge in the eyes of many car enthusiasts and casual onlookers. The latest generation of the S-Class continues to captivate with its sleek lines and imposing presence. Conversely, BMW’s exterior styling has been somewhat polarizing, with recent revisions like those on the 1 Series and the upcoming 2025 BMW X3 causing debates among brand loyalists and critics alike.
Despite the technological advantages and performance metrics leaning towards the BMW, Sam CarLegion's crew couldn't hide their preference for the Mercedes in terms of overall design and interior comfort. The luxurious feel and advanced amenities in the S-Class give it that extra touch of class that some believe BMW has missed in its latest iterations.
The Final Verdict
In terms of raw performance and driving dynamics, the BMW 750e xDrive proves to be the better option, especially in the context of a drag race and braking test. However, if you lean more towards design, comfort, and that unmistakable luxury feel, the Mercedes S 580e still steals the show.
Ultimately, the choice between these two stunning sedans boils down to your personal preference. Do you prioritize performance and cutting-edge technology? Or does the allure of timeless design and a plush interior win your heart? Whichever you choose, rest assured you're getting the best of German automotive engineering.