The BMW 7 Series Overview

As the class leader in performance and handling, it's easy to imagine the new 7 extending that lead based solely on previous generations. New features such as a multi-link front suspension (the first on a BMW sedan), Dynamic Damping Control, Driving Dynamics Control, and optional Integral Active Steering as part of the Sport Package, coupled with existing features such as Active Roll Stabilization, ensure a chassis that will easily surpass the ride and handling standards set by its predecessor. Now, BMW has expanded the choice of power plants and drive trains available with the twin-turbo 750i and 750Li in both rear-wheel drive and xDrive configurations and the twin-turbo V-12 760Li.

Added to this superlative package is a wealth of comfort and convenience features, several of them new to the class. A new camera package adds a rear view camera and two front side view cameras for maneuvering in tight spaces. The navigation system adds an 8 GB music collection, plus BMW Search and MyInfo, which bring internet search and email connectivity to the ultra-luxury class. Other existing features also add new capabilities: Active Cruise Control now includes Frontal Collision Warning, Night Vision now provides Pedestrian Detection, and the completely redesigned iDrive system now includes Direct Access Buttons as well as an all-new interface and vivid, 10.2-inch high-resolution display.

All in all, the new 7 Series represents an astonishing performance - and that's true even before it ever turns a wheel!

The Mercedes-Benz S550 Overview

Perennial competitor Mercedes-Benz has paid a great deal of attention to the competitiveness of its S-Class sedans i the current generation. Introduced in 2007, the lineup expanded in 2008 from the original S550 to include the V-12-powered S600, plus two AMG models, the S63 AMG (6.3-liter V-8, 518-hp) and S65 AMG (6.5-liter V-12, 604-hp). V-8 S-Class models feature a 7-speed automatic, V12 models a 5-speed; both transmissions are significantly modified in the AMG versions. Likewise, all S-Class cars roll on a single,124.6-inch wheelbase, with a 205-inch overall length.

At $90,225 (with destination fee) the base MY2009 S550 includes a 382-hp, 5.5-liter V-8, and is the only S-Class model to offer a choice of either rear or all-wheel drive. The most direct competitor to the MY2009 750i and 750Li, the S550 includes an impressive array of standard equipment, including 14-way power seats, 6-disc CD-changer, full leather interior, navigation with 20GB hard drive, Bluetooth™, rear sunshades, Airmatic Suspension, and COMAND control system. For 2009, Mercedes added standard active ventilation for the front seats, plus a wood/leather steering wheel with shift-paddles, power trunk lid and newly styled 18-inch wheels. Mercedes-Benz's available Parktronic also offers a new feature that can scan an available parking space and notify the driver if the car will fit.

 

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 (1800-5400 rpm) than Mercedes' normally aspirated V-8.
• The new 750i is quicker 0-60 mph, at 5.1 seconds.
• The 750i front seats are 20-way adjustable, with standard heat and available Active Ventilation.
• BMW includes far larger disc brakes: 14.7-inch front with 14.5-inch rear.
• The 7 Series' driver-selectable Driving Dynamic Control offers four settings: Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+.
• BMW's Night Vision includes Pedestrian Detection as an additional safety measure.
• Side View Camera places a pair of wide-angle cameras ahead of the front wheels that give an accurate view of approaching traffic on busy cross streets.
• BMW's Head-up Display places a customized, virtual instrument panel directly in the driver's line of sight.
• The 7 Series includes standard Park Distance Control, with visual and auditory warnings of nearby obstacles.
• BMW offers Blind Spot Detection and Lane Change Warning as driver conveniences.
• Integral Active Steering provides a widely variable steering ratio for maneuverability and great road feel, as well as a 37.7-ft. turning circle.
• An xDrive version of 750i and 750Li coming in Fall 2009.
• 4-Zone Climate Control is standard on the 750i and 750Li.
• The 750Li offers a Luxury Rear Seating Package with 14-way adjustable seats with active ventilation. It also offers a massage feature as a further option.
• BMW offers a dual-screen Rear Entertainment Package as a factory stand alone option.
• BMW's 2nd-generation iDrive offers a completely revised, highly intuitive interface, 10.2-inch color monitor, and quick-access buttons.
• iDrive also provides eight enhanced Programmable Memory Keys for the ultimate in convenience.
• With BMW's hard-drive based navigation, the 7 Series adds Real Time Traffic Info, 2nd-generation iDrive, CD-ripping capability, MyInfo and BMW Search.
• The 750i and 750Li come standard with run-flat tires.
• BMW's 4 year/50,000-mile Full Maintenance Warranty
• 12 year/unlimited miles corrosion warranty.

What Mercedes-Benz doesn’t…

• M-B's 5.5-liter V-8 produces less horsepower (382) and torque (391 lb-ft), with a significantly narrower powerband - 2800-4800 rpm.
• The Mercedes requires 5.4 seconds to reach 60 mph.
• The standard S-Class seats offer standard heating and ventilation, but are only 14-way adjustable.
• Mercedes disc brakes a much smaller, with 13.2-inch fronts paired with 11.8-inch rear.
• The S-Class Adaptive Damping System offers only two settings, Comfort and Sport.
• Mercedes' Night View offers nothing like Pedestrian Detection.
• Like BMW, Mercedes offers an optional rear-view camera feature, but has nothing like the 7 Series' side view camera.
• Mercedes-Benz has nothing like BMW's Head-up Display.
• Mercedes' Parktronic system is part of a $2030 package on the S-Class.
• Mercedes S-Class offers a Blind Spot Detection system, but no Lane Departure Warning.
• Mercedes S-Class doesn't offer anything like BMW's Integral Active Steering feature, and has a 40-ft. turning circle.
• Mercedes S-Class currently offers 4MATIC AWD.
• 4-Zone climate control is only available as part of a $2950 package.
• Mercedes S-Class Rear Seat Package includes only 8-way adjustable seats and active heat/ventilation. What's more, M-B does not a rear seat massage option.
• Mercedes offers no factory fitted rear entertainment system.
• Mercedes COMAND system features only an 8-inch display and its access isn't as intuitive as iDrive, with no direct-access buttons.
• The S-Class COMAND system also has nothing like BMW's Programmable Memory Keys.
• The S-Class includes a hard-drive-based system, but has only a 20 GB memory and none of the other BMW features, such as the Music Collection.
• Mercedes doesn't offer run-flat tires.
• 4 year/50,000-mile, but no maintenance included
• 4 year/50,000 miles corrosion warranty does not match the 12 year/unlimited coverage with BMW.

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 7-Series was already strong dynamically, and it's safe to say that it will continue to be among

the best in its class; this is a luxury sedan that doesn't shy away from hustling when called on." - Car and Driver

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