Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs. BMW 7 Series: The Ultimate Luxury Sedan Showdown

Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs. BMW 7 Series: Which Luxury Sedan Reigns Supreme?

When it comes to flagship luxury sedans, two names often rise to the top: the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the BMW 7 Series. These vehicles epitomize what a premium car should be, offering cutting-edge technology, unparalleled comfort, and refined performance. But if you’re deciding between these two icons, you might wonder: which one truly deserves your hard-earned investment?

In this detailed comparison, we’ll pit the 2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class against its closest rival, the 2024 BMW 7 Series, and break down why the S-Class remains the undisputed leader in the world of luxury sedans. From performance and interior quality to technology and overall value, the S-Class comes out on top in every category.

1. Performance: More Power, Faster Acceleration

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2024)

• Engine: 3.0L inline-6 turbo with EQ
• Boost (base model)
• Horsepower: 429 hp
• 0-60 MPH: 4.9 seconds
• MSRP: $114,500*

BMW 740i (2024)

• Engine: 3.0L inline-6 turbo with a mild hybrid system
• Horsepower: 375 hp
• 0-60 MPH: 5.2 seconds
• MSRP: $109,000*

The S-Class delivers more punch under the hood than the BMW 740i, boasting an extra 54 horsepower from its innovative EQ Boost system. This translates into a quicker 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds, leaving the 740i’s 5.2 seconds in the dust.

But performance isn’t just about raw numbers—it’s about the driving experience. The AIRMATIC® air suspension in the S-Class provides a silky-smooth ride, effortlessly absorbing bumps and rough patches, while still delivering sharp handling. While the BMW 7 Series also features an adaptive suspension, it lacks the seamless refinement and comfort of the S-Class on both highways and winding roads.

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2. Interior Luxury: Where Comfort Meets Opulence

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2024)

• Key Features: Nappa leather upholstery, 64-color ambient lighting, heated armrests, massaging seats, and Burmester®* 4D surround sound.
• Design: Sleek and modern, with a 12.8-inch OLED central display and a digital driver’s cockpit.

BMW 740i (2024)

• Key Features: Leather seating, optional heated and ventilated seats, and Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound.
• Design: Traditional with a focus on functionality and physical buttons.

The S-Class sets the benchmark for interior luxury. The cabin is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, seamlessly blending state-of-the-art technology with premium materials. Highlights include 64-color ambient lighting that transforms the atmosphere, heated armrests, and multicontour massaging seats, which elevate comfort to a spa-like experience.

While the BMW 7 Series offers a luxurious interior, it leans on a more traditional design with physical buttons and switches that feel dated compared to the sleek OLED touchscreen display of the S-Class. Additionally, while BMW’s Bowers & Wilkins audio system is impressive, the S-Class’s Burmester®* 4D surround sound system takes in-car audio to a whole new level, with immersive, theater-quality sound.

3. Technology: Mercedes Leads the Way

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

• MBUX System: Voice-activated assistant, augmented reality navigation, and biometric fingerprint scanner for personalization.
• Driver Assistance: DISTRONIC® adaptive cruise control, Active Lane-Keeping Assist, and Pre-Safe® technology.

BMW 740i

• iDrive 8: Improved interface with gesture control and advanced voice recognition.
• Driver Assistance: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and optional Driving Assistance Pro.

The S-Class proves why Mercedes-Benz is considered a pioneer in automotive technology. Its MBUX infotainment system is not only intuitive but also loaded with innovative features like augmented reality navigation, which overlays directional graphics onto your windshield for safer and more precise guidance. The biometric fingerprint scanner, which allows drivers to save and recall custom settings, further elevates the experience.

On the other hand, BMW’s iDrive 8 system is user-friendly but lacks the futuristic edge of the MBUX system. While BMW does offer optional rear-seat entertainment with a massive 31-inch 8K screen, it feels more like a gimmick than a practical innovation compared to the S-Class’s functional, driver-focused features.

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4. Value: Long-Term Luxury

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

• Base MSRP: $114,500*
• Resale Value: Historically higher due to superior build quality and brand prestige.

BMW 740i

• Base MSRP: $109,000*
• Resale Value: Slightly lower than the S-Class due to aging design elements and fewer standard features.

Though the BMW 7 Series starts at a slightly lower price point, the S-Class justifies its premium with superior craftsmanship, advanced technology, and a higher resale value over time. Mercedes-Benz vehicles are renowned for their longevity and durability, making the S-Class a smarter long-term investment.

Additionally, the S-Class offers more standard luxury features, meaning you’re getting more for your money without needing to stack on pricey options.

Why the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Is the Ultimate Luxury Sedan

After comparing the 2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the 2024 BMW 7 Series, the verdict is clear: the S-Class dominates in every category.

• Performance: More horsepower, faster acceleration, and unmatched ride comfort.
• Interior Luxury: A modern, opulent design with features like ambient lighting and massaging seats.
• Technology: Forward-thinking innovations like augmented reality navigation and biometric customization.
• Value: Long-term reliability, higher resale value, and superior standard features.

The S-Class isn’t just a car—it’s an experience. From the moment you sit behind the wheel, it’s clear why this sedan has been the flagship of Mercedes-Benz for decades.

So, if you’re looking for the pinnacle of luxury, performance, and technology, the choice is simple: the Mercedes-Benz S-Class stands in a class of its own.

FAQs

1. What is the starting price for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
The base model starts at $114,500.

2. How does the S-Class compare to the BMW 740i in acceleration?
The S-Class reaches 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds, outperforming the BMW 740i’s 5.2 seconds.

3. Why is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class considered the best luxury sedan?
The S-Class combines superior performance, cutting-edge technology, and unmatched interior luxury, making it the benchmark in its class.

4. Does the S-Class have better resale value than the BMW 7 Series?
Yes, the S-Class typically holds its value better due to its advanced features and reputation for quality.

*Burmester® is a registered trademark of Burmester® Audiosysteme GmbH, Berlin, Germany.

*Base MSRP excludes transportation and handling charges, destination charges, taxes, title, registration, preparation and documentary fees, tags, labor and installation charges, insurance, and optional equipment, products, packages and accessories. Options, model availability and actual dealer price may vary. See dealer for details, costs and terms.