It’s a storm that’s been brewing for some time now, with those in the left corner cheering for Munich’s finest, while those in the opposing corner having Stuttgart’s back.
This short clip by TheMotoristZA is the first clash of these titans on South African soil. Yes, we are talking about none other than the Mercedes-AMG E63 S and the freshly launched BMW M5.
Let’s get the figures out of the way first. Powering the M5 is an evolution of the previous generation’s twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 that now produces 441kw and 750nm, which is available across a wider range than the E63 S. Interestingly, it’s not paired with a DCT, but instead an 8-speed automatic, that sends power to all four wheels via an M-tuned xDrive system. It’s also capable of 0-100kph in just 3.4 seconds, and a top speed of over 305kph. A more potent M5 is on the way later this year though, termed the M5 Competition, and it’s expected to produce 460kw! The current M5 is priced at R1 762 807, but expect the M5 CP to be significantly more than that.
Hailing from Affalterbach, is the AMG E63 S. The car was launched last year and features roughly the same engine that beats in the AMG GT R sports car. It is a bi-turbo 4.0-litre V8, but despite being smaller than the M5’s powerplant, it produces 450kw and a monstrous 850nm of twist! It too sends all its power to all four corners, but AMG does so via a new 9-speed MCT. Traction is taken care off by an AMG-fettled 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system that aids the E63 S in its 0-100kph blast of 3.4 seconds. The E63 S is priced from R1 895 795.
Never before have these two heavyweights been so evenly matched. And despite the M5 being a marginally bigger car, it’s actually close to 100kgs lighter than the AMG. But just how close are they in a straight up drag race? In one of the initial races we saw in the UK, it was the Mercedes that triumphed. But on South African soil, who is going to hang on to bragging rights? The AMG or the M?
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-AMG A Class and the Mercedes-AMG G Class.
FAQ
Q: What does the BMW M5 cost in South Africa?
The BMW M5 is priced at R1,762,807 in South Africa, while the upcoming M5 Competition is expected to cost significantly more when it arrives later this year with 460kW.
Q: What does the Mercedes-AMG E63 S cost in South Africa?
The Mercedes-AMG E63 S starts from R1,895,795 in South Africa, making it about R133,000 more expensive than the BMW M5.
Q: Which is faster, the BMW M5 or Mercedes-AMG E63 S?
Both cars achieve identical 0-100kph times of 3.4 seconds, but the Mercedes-AMG E63 S has more power with 450kW versus the M5's 441kW, plus significantly more torque at 850Nm compared to 750Nm.
Q: Is the BMW M5 or Mercedes-AMG E63 S better value for money?
The BMW M5 offers better value at R1,762,807 with nearly identical performance to the E63 S, plus it's 100kg lighter and has a larger 4.4-litre engine versus the Mercedes' 4.0-litre unit.
Q: Should I wait for the BMW M5 Competition or buy the Mercedes-AMG E63 S now?
If you want maximum performance and don't mind paying more, the E63 S at R1,895,795 delivers 450kW right now, but the upcoming M5 Competition with 460kW could be worth waiting for if you prefer the BMW brand.
Should You Buy It?
The best performance super saloon under R1,800,000 in South Africa is the BMW M5 at R1,762,807. You're getting 441kW, 750Nm, and a lighter package that's just as quick to 100kph as the pricier Mercedes. The E63 S at R1,895,795 is the better choice if you want maximum bragging rights with 450kW and 850Nm, but you'll pay R133,000 more for essentially the same acceleration. Wait for the M5 Competition if you want the ultimate BMW experience, but expect to pay significantly more than the E63 S for those extra 10kW. Bottom line: buy the standard M5 for the best performance per rand, or splash out on the E63 S if you prefer the Mercedes badge and that extra punch of torque.
