Mercedes-Benz E 450 L vs BMW 530Li: Luxury Sedan Comparison for Executive Buyers
The executive luxury sedan segment has steadily stretched its limits, inching closer to the realm of super-luxury cars. Increased length, longer wheelbases, expansive equipment lists and features such as massage seats—once reserved for flagship sedans—are now finding their way into this category. In this comparo, we pit two of the segment’s finest against each other: the Mercedes-Benz E 450 4MATIC L and the BMW 530Li.
Standing before these two sedans, both measuring over five metres in length and boasting wheelbases beyond three metres, one question naturally arises—how long before the lines between executive and luxury sedans completely disappear? These dimensions were once the preserve of full-size luxury sedans and large SUVs, yet here they are, redefining expectations.
The strategy behind these long-wheelbase luxury cars is no secret. Markets like China have driven demand for extended-wheelbase versions of nearly every premium model—from entry-level luxury sedans to mid-size SUVs. BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi have all leaned into this formula globally. However, most of these models are left-hand drive, which gave Mercedes-Benz India a significant opportunity.
Mercedes seized the moment by introducing the right-hand-drive E-Class Long Wheelbase, making India its first such market. The previous W213-generation V213 E-Class featured a wheelbase stretched by 205 mm over its predecessor and quickly became Mercedes-Benz India’s bestseller. The appeal was simple—more space, more comfort, and more perceived prestige.
BMW responded with long-wheelbase offerings of its own, including the 3 Series Gran Limousine and the iX1, but the real challenger to the E-Class crown arrived with the first-ever long-wheelbase BMW 5 Series (G68) in India. BMW, however, launched it only with the 530Li’s 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, while higher-performance and electric variants remained standard-wheelbase offerings.
Mercedes countered decisively with the new-generation W214 E-Class, offering a broader engine lineup. The range-topping E 450 4MATIC L stands out with its six-cylinder petrol engine, all-wheel drive and mild-hybrid tech—bringing performance credentials rarely seen in this segment.
That brings us to the stars of this comparison: the Mercedes-Benz E 450 4MATIC L AMG Line and the BMW 530Li M Sport. Both are long-wheelbase, petrol-powered luxury sedans wearing their sportiest badges. While the BMW is larger and prioritises ride comfort and rear-seat luxury, the Mercedes counters with stronger performance, AWD capability and a more dynamic setup.
These sedans are no longer just executive cars—they’re statements of luxury, comfort and presence. And depending on whether you’re behind the wheel or stretched out in the rear seat, the verdict could change entirely.