The BMW 550i Overview
When it comes to premium mid-size sedans, the competition is intense. The BMW 5 Series has remained a leader in this segment even in its 7th year of its various life cycles. The introduction of the stylish all-new MY11 5 Series is no different. Combining athletic good looks, superb driving dynamics, and innovative comfort and safety features into an executive express that promises once again, the BMW 5 Series is the one to beat.

The Mercedes-Benz E550 Overview

The E550 is powered by a 5.5 liter V-8 engine that is a carryover from the 2009 model. Its 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft. or torque place it well below the 400 / 450 output afforded by the 550i. The car is outfitted exclusively with a 7-speed Touch Shift automatic, which yields 0-60 mph dash of 5.2 seconds, a few tenths slower than the 550i. The E550's front brakes are an inch smaller than the 550i's; two inches smaller in the back. Brake Fade Compensation is also missing.

The E550 is available in two distinct models – Luxury and Sport. HD Radio, a Music Collection, Xenon adaptive headlights, and Park Distance Control are standard on the 550i; optional on the E550. Also standard on the BMW is 80GB Navigation with Voice Command, Real Time Traffic Info and a 10.2-inch display. Navigation is optional on the Benz, but it is only a 40GB set-up with a 7.0-inch display that lacks Programmable Memory Keys and an Integrated Owner's Manual. Traffic updates require a Sirius subscription.

The cockpit is modern and contemporary, yet still conveys a sense of still conveys a sense of status and elegance. Unique standard features include front pelvis airbags and a driver's knee airbag, along with ATTENTION ASSIST – a feature that uses 70 different parameters to monitor driver behavior, only to provide audible and visible alerts if it determines the driver is getting drowsy. An optional Panorama roof is also available.

Mercedes-Benz does offer Star Service pre-paid maintenance, but the plan does not include brake service and wear-and-tear items. As a result, Edmunds.com stipulates it costs $44.53/month (x36 months) to maintain the E550.

 

BMW vs. Mercedes-Benz

 

What BMW offers…

• BMW's twin-turbo V-8 produces 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque and offers a wider powerband (1750-5400 rpm) than the E550's normally aspirated V-8.
• The 8-speed automatic also provides a wider range of gear ratios, which will likely give the BMW better response in daily driving.
• BMW 550i: 0-60 mph in 5.2 sec.
• The 550i includes more head, leg and front shoulder room than the E550, and has a larger trunk capacity.
• BMW includes larger, ventilated front and rear brakes: 14.7-inch front with 14.6-inch rear. The 5 Series also uses composite aluminum/cast iron rotors, which are much lighter than conventional cast-iron.
• The 550i includes standard Driving Dynamic Control, which provides alternative settings for steering, throttle and transmission shift response.
• The 550i includes standard Dakota leather, with BMW's ultra-soft Merino leather as an option.
• The Gran Turismo also includes a Panoramic moonroof and Park Distance Control as standard.
• BMW's latest-generation iDrive offers a completely revised, highly intuitive interface, 7-inch color monitor, Programmable Memory Keys and quick-access buttons.
• BMW's optional navigation adds an 80 GB hard disc with 12 GB music memory, 10.2-inch display, Real Time Traffic Info, CD-ripping capability, MyInfo and BMW Search.
• BMW's Head-up Display places a customized, virtual instrument panel directly in the driver's line of sight.
• BMW's Camera Package includes both Rearview and Side View Cameras.
• BMW's 4 year/50,000-mile warranty includes Full Maintenance and Roadside Assistance
• BMW includes a 12 year/unlimited miles corrosion warranty

 

What Mercedes-Benz doesn’t…

• Mercedes' 5.5-liter V-8 makes maximum power much higher in a much narrower range: 382 hp @ 6000 rpm, 391 lb-ft. of torque @ 2800-4800 rpm.
• The E550 includes Mercedes' standard 7-speed automatic, which offers fewer ratios and a narrower gear range overall. Mercedes E550: 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds.
• The E550 has a much smaller trunk (15.9 vs. 18.4) than the BMW 550i.
• Brakes on the E550 are 13.5-inch ventilated front rotors and 12.6-inch solid rear, which will likely provide less fade resistance. The E550's brake rotors are also traditional cast-iron, which increases unsprung weight.
• Mercedes optional AirMatic offers Auto, Comfort and Sport suspension modes, but it includes no alternate settings for transmission, steering or throttle response.
• The E550 includes leather interior as standard, but no optional alternatives.
• The Panoramic roof is a $1,070 option on the E550, and Parktronic is another $950.
• The E550's new COMAND system includes a 7-inch display and console controller, but no Programmable Memory Keys nor Direct Access buttons.
• M-B's optional navigation includes RTTI plus Search and Send, but has the same 7-inch display, only 4GB music storage.
• Mercedes doesn't offer a Head-up Display on any of its vehicles.
• Mercedes offers an optional rearview camera on the E550, but has nothing like Side View Cameras.
• M-B's warranty includes 4 year/50,000 miles Roadside Assistance, but no maintenance
• Mercedes corrosion warranty is 10 year/unlimited miles

Don't settle for the ordinary, drive something extraordinary. Expect the ultimate in performance and service by purchasing a BMW.

Visit Irvine BMW today, where we provide premiere customer service, high quality BMW vehicles and products, along with factory-trained technicians.

We look forward to seeing you soon, Irvine BMW of Orange County.

"... The great 5 Series cars of the past have offered almost as much luxury as the 7 Series but at a more manageable and sportier size.

This latest iteration may have gained some weight, but it has also gained in refinement.

And, despite the added mass, the sporty dynamics that have made the 5 Series the sports car of its segment remain intact." Car and Driver

Irvine BMW proudly serves Orange County - including Aliso Viejo, Capistrano Beach, Dana Point, East Irvine, El Toro, Foothill Ranch, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, San Clemente, Lake Elsinore, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Juan Capistrano, Silverado and Trabuco Canyon.