There’s a common expression that many car enthusiasts use nowadays, “M now stands for ‘marketing'”. Essentially, what they’re saying is the BMW’s M Division has become so diluted and focused on expansion that it’s forgotten to make rear-deal performance cars. A lot of the reason for this is that BMW has been slapping the “M” logo on cars that aren’t real M cars, cars like the BMW M240i. Except, it isn’t just BMW, as Mercedes-Benz has begun slapping “AMG” badges on cars that aren’t real AMGs. So let’s take a look at this AutoGuide battle between each brand’s lesser M and MAG variants, the BMW M550iand Mercedes-AMG E43, respectively.
Both of these cars are sort of the baby-variants of the proper, big-boy bruisers. Still, though, both cars are very fast and both have miles of luxury. So let’s take a look at both cars. Under the hood of the AMG lies a twin-turbocharged 3.0 liter V6, which makes 396 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. That biturbo engine is mated to a nine-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. So it can get from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds, which is proper quick.
On the flip side, the BMW M550i uses a 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that makes 456 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. So it’s significantly more powerful but needs a bigger, heavier V8 to do so. That mighty engine is paired with an eight-speed auto and also powers all four wheels. The M550i has been clocked at getting from 0-60 mph 3.9 seconds, so it’s quite a bit quicker than the AMG. However, when it comes to handling, the AMG might have the advantage of having quite a bit less weight over its nose.
In terms of ride and handling, the BMW M550i is really smooth, comfortable and stable. It’s also not a bad car in the handling department, either. However, its near 200 lbs weight penalty makes it feel less enthusiastic than the AMG. There’s a bit more body roll in the M550i and it just isn’t as athletic as the AMG.
Blame the extra weight of that V8, as the extra weight over the nose will make its front end less likely to bite well, more likely to understeer and reduce confidence it its steering. Which is a shame, because the 5 Series is normally a competent and good handler and, normally, better to drive than the equivalent E-Class.
On the inside, the BMW M550i tries to claw its way back, with better technology and a really robust feeling interior. However, the AMG’s looks a bit flashier and more modern. BMW’s M550i does come loaded with impressive autonomous safety tech that the AMG doesn’t. Also, the AMG is a bit more expensive, comes with less tech and is slower. So it’s not as good of value. But its handling dynamics and cooler styling might make it more attractive to buyers.
AudiGuide ended up choosing the Mercedes-AMG E43 as the better car thanks to its slightly sharper handling and more modern looking cabin. Sure, it’s more expensive but AG seems to think it’s worth it.
[Source: AutoGuide]
Can we have a proper substitute of BMW brand? These guys aren’t serious about their automobiles any more and are busy conjuring one appliance after another.
I am looking at you, Genesis !!! As it is the comparisons of BMW and Genesis have started to appear on the internet. It won’t be too long before you will be beating pulp out of BMW.
And Genesis, Just don’t worry about badge snobbery too much. There are quite a lot of people out their who are looking for real deal and not just uber luxury brand that is simply pasting its logo in appliance and call it epitome of luxury. Just give your very best.
No wonder the top European talent is moving to far east because home appliance makers are making cars in Germany.
That’s another way of saying damn I can’t afford a BMW and I really want one. Oh well, Let’s go with something I can at least try to lease that my paycheck may just be enough for and create a story to cover up my envy and jealousy.
You clearly don’t understand cars. Bmw does not compete with genesis you fool
Why they made then comparison test? Entire world are fools probably…
Who tested an M5 vs. a Genesis?
Hehehe….
I understood your character by the way you put things. Any smelly turd would do the same.
And that you didn’t had gut to put your own name clearly suggests the puny size of your balls (if you have any).
I understand automobile more than lot many of people understand here. Certainly more than you.
I too was a big time BMW lover but now they are simply milking money out of headless creatures like yourself by selling mediocre products with logo.
Go check sales figures of 5 series vs competition. Most of them are running circles around bimmer.
The most fascinating thing about turds like you is that you get so infuriated at any comment against BMW as if you have been given a low blow to your groin.
Grow up, moron. Try to maintain objective perspective. Don’t take things personally.
Why to show a world brazenly that you are leading a mediocre life!?
You type smelly turds here but can’t read, BMW are doing segment record margins because of the new 5er. Try Hyundaiblog, maybe they’ll choke back your b.s. there. You have NO credibility, offer no facts and are in no position to name call anyone else. Not what the page is for.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! Mercedes had to buy AMG just to compete with M, the “top European talent” are 2 people to Korea, including Audi’s former designer & someone they can advertise is from BMW in an effort to give their only rwd. some cred., and the people China head hunted haven’t produced a vehicle. Korean volume sales are dropping & fool thinks they can be “a proper substitute of BMW brand”? HAH!
Aaah !!! I knew it was you. Thanks for coming out atleast.
The grumpy little puppy of this blog who always messes up with things/ people only because it things that all are at fault cuz they aren’t thinking like me and can’t stop barking to them.
Poor litte puppy!!!!! (Tickle tickle tickle)
Sorry dude. I won’t be putting any explanation to you. M sure it would be too much for you to process.
As others keep doing with you here, i ll prefer to ignore.
M is Motorsport. BMW Motorsport. This is also not ignoring someone, quite the reverse. If you don’t want to get called out for typing b.s? Stop typing it. Since I’m not the only one to call you on it, no need to focus on me, tickle someone else, somewhere else, you don’t tickle me. Enjoy your Hyundai.
Tickle tickle tickle !!
puke
Syphilitic Retard. Or as they say in entire world, Terry Cow(ard)an !!
Tickle tickle tickle
No place for mediocre cars like M5. Only the best compete in this video. And the E63 AMG beats Panamera Turbo. Something the miserable M5 can’t even dream about.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v127kcXPhJU
E class is crap taxi so ugly. porsche is on another level. prestiege brand merc just common and boring. M5 will spank the e class taxi the stats already prove its faster. cry more merc fanboy
Oh really? The E-class is a taxi, because it is much more comfortable and durable, than your shitty 5 series. Regarding the stats, the E63 AMG S is the fastest 4-door saloon on the planet, and your shitty m5 isn’t even in the top 3, you retard. Next time before posting a stupid comment, go and do some research.
Dream on and now fuck off dude. We are tired from your Bullshit. You retarded moron?
He’s getting banned again.
The new 5 series beats the e class by every single test in germany. Also the new 5 series drives more comfortable than shitty e class. Thank you Horatiu. I’ll be at the IAA next sunday.
Only in your dreams, fan of the most uncomfortable and often breaking car in the world (i.e. BMW).
I thought he was banned.
Did the little merc Fanboy make a snappy comeback, after his little butt was kicked out from Bimmerblog?
M55oi ??
I would still take the M550i. It’s such a must an awesome car.
How does it come that the M550i is awesome? I can’t see any single aspect by which it is awesome. I would rather call it cumbersome. Merc all the way!!!!!
As long as there’s a BMW engine in there, it’s a deal. BMW is still the engine wizard of the industry – it just so happens that they do everything else brilliantly too. I’m not taking away from the E45 accomplishments, it’s a great car. I’d have one any day – if there was no BMW!
Yes I totally agree with you. I don’t care anymore what the outcome is from these tests. Im a BMW man all the way.
Does Genesis have any selling point whatsoever?! Reminds me of the Phaeton, its big feature was hidden dash vents. How long did it last? VW started building Bentley’s in Germany just to avoid mothballing the factory.
At least Genesis is much better than the useless 5 Series. Want comfort and luxury? Buy a Mercedes-Benz. Want performance? Buy an Audi. Want to ask yourself why you’ve spent so much money in vain by buying a mediocre car? Then buy a BMW. Or want to have the most often breaking car in the world and empty your wallet? Buy a BMW. It’s simple.
You are simple. Also on the wrong page.
Thank you for your opinion, but I’ll stay on this page a bit longer and enjoy reading how bmw fans accept that their beloved brand is nothing but mediocre. It can’t even beat Hyundai, and you dare to compare it to Mercedes-Benz? It’s just ridiculous.
Not familiar with J.D. Power. Are you? Nor dieselgate.
Yes, J.D.Power, where bmw performs much worse than even the worst Japanese brands. You’re absolutely right.
USA Today, June 21, BMW #6, Mercedes below industry average.
And RAM is better than bmw, right? )))))))))))))))))))))))
You do know how ridiculous you sound, don’t you. Unless you’re 5 years old… in which case, I’m sorry.
So is it a kind of self acceptance that its only the engine department where BMW excels these days !?
You’re a dreamer, pure and simple. These days bmw doesn’t have advantage over its competitors in anything. So just try to accept the bitter truth.
merc is so crap lol even my local milk truck is a merc nothing special. BMW beats merc in every aspect
Yes, that’s why bmw is lagging far behind in terms of sales. Mercedes-Benz means prestige, and bmw means unreliable crap, which isn’t the best at anything.
BMW could be better car specially because V8 always sounds better than V6 but as usually lately BMW ruin it all with face speakers sound.
So in the end Merc V6 sounds better because it Is real.
Only V8 without pathetic fake sound is X6M/X5M and it amazing.
Why they have to ruin everything this days with this obsession for technology.
Not mention Merc has much better looking interior but that would not be a problem if the V8 should is right.
You’re a fool, the E43 also has engine sound going through the speakers. But at least BMW is honest about it
my dad bought a 520d SE. we looked at the e class and it was so rubbish LOL we couldnt stop laughing at the spec just so cheap and crap. BMW ALL DAY EVERYDAY CANT WAIT TO PICK IT UP. Litreally I dont even care about any other brands all I care for is BMW and will always pick BMW over any other car.
Nice but just idk if it was a good idea to buy a diesel now, looks like there is a big lobby against them rn. Maybe it’s different in the uk but here in France they’re getting pretty serious about that issue (ironically enough couple years ago they basically forced us to buy diesel but whatever)
thanks :D we were going to get 520i but was expensive and the salesman said in future if a petrol comes up we can just swap but ya i think UK will make it serious in future too like france has btw we didnt go for m sport cause my dad didnt want firm ride its an SE with 17inch im guessing it will ride smoothy and comfy? UK has rubbish potholes. only thing our car is missing is the elc. folding mirrors and we have the standard bmw speakers im guessing they sound good too?
Mercedes’ much better looking interior is a video arcade dashboard with vents. If V6 is better why are Mercedes finally following BMW’s decades’ old lead by introducing an inline 6?
what’s wrong with video arcade dashboard? lol
I never have enough quarters.
(y)
i8 roadster?
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/9cf149a56acd90a0e4359e409b6d86c5e934dbe9d1c5ec359a9ee2b4943b070a.jpg
M8 GTE
I thought so but i thought it is too early for this car
It’s right on time as it will begin competing in World Endurance Racing from early next year.
Endurance Racing! How many Teslas?
Another easy win for Mercedes-Benz. And, what’s even more astonishing is the fact that Mercedes easily beats bmw in handling department. BRAVISSIMO, Mercedes-Benz! I don’t see a point in buying a bmw any more. Actually, so do the customers all around the world, since Mercedes-Ben is growing in double digits, while bmw is growing at a miserable rate.
MERC ARE CRAPPY TAXIS M550 ALL DAY OVER THAT UGLY FAKE AMG. M550i SOUNDS WAY BETTER V8 ENGINE BABY
That’s why the E43 easily kicked the m550i’s cumbersome ass.
Are you kidding me? AMG E43 over M550i? The AMG43 is superb, sure, but the M550i is a level above it, and comes discounted, for a V8. You guys need to stop playing silly games.
Oh please. You can also get the. E Class with autonomous driving features. It’s optional. The BMW just happens to have had that option (optional or standard being country dependent). They are the same in terms of tech.
One of many videos about how the almighty AMG shits on M-power’s useless head.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fuetGrn5RE4
Well Mr. Stinger, obviously the AMG win this one, how hard, they have 33% more displacement. Isn’t that common sense? If you want to find a comparison, please find one that have the same engine size. C Class does not need a V8, and of course it has more punch…. it has eight cylinders.. Although you can also point out some cars like the new Alfa has lesser displacement than even the BMW, and it has more punch, but please don’t forget the Alfa is boost over 30 psi, obviously more punchy engine….. People now, really don’t use the head to compare….
Very funny. AMG won because it has 33% more displacement. Every time bmw lose a comparison test against Mercedes-Benz (and it happens almost always), you start to bring excuses. Why won’t you just accept that Mercedes-Benz is head and shoulders above BMW in everything?
Very funny… what comparison are you talking about? There is no excuse here, both vehicles in different categories. Even people with the least common sense, except probably you, will notice both engines are different categories, its not so hard right, I thought its easy, let me help you kid, just count the number of cylinders on both cars, I hope you can differentiate a 6 cylinders poweplant, and a 8 cylinders unit. If its too hard for you, its 8 minus 6 = 2 cylinders, which means the Merc has 2 more cylinders. Of course, it has a bit more power.
Well the AMG E43 is really AMG, this is not the AMG Sport, the 3 litre 6 is a special version, so of course its sportier. The M550 is not really a BMW Motorsport product, its just a M Sport version with the 750 V8 engine, the powerplant is only enhanced by a little. Its Apples vs Oranges. The E43 AMG should be compared to the equivalent in BMW Motorsport division, but since Bimmer uses the special 4.4 V8 tuned M5, its not fair to compare at all. BMW should offered wider variety of M5, like the M4, with Compeition Package, and so on.
The E43 isn’t a real AMG, Mr Donald Dong. You’re very ignorant. It has the same philosophy like the M550i, i.e. not a complete M. So stop talking nonsense.
Well you are basically the biggest nonsense here. The real BMW Motorsport, & the real AMG, have their powerplants reworked. The E43 version of W213 did not leave the E400 powerplants alone. The E400 uses the base-line six which puts out 328 horses, along with 350 lb/ft of torque. The AMG six ups both numbers to 396 horses, and 384 lb/ft of torque, so this is not the AMG Sport, its the real AMG. The main difference between this one and the E63 AMG & E63 AMG S, is that this one represents the 6 cylinder segment of Mercedes AMG product, the other 2 AMG variants mentioned here are the 8 cylinders segment. As for the M550i, its actually a BMW M Sport, because it uses basically the same powerplant as the G11/12 750Li, that was the N63B44, this one wasn’t specially tuned, so power output is identical, with only 13 horses difference, most likely due to improvement in minor tweaks.. If you don’t believe it, why don’t you check it out yourself. You can call me whatever you like, because you sound more like a high school kid, just reading off the badge, and talk like you are an expert.
And types like he’s a moron.
Just one more thing, before you even try to be judgemental, I own a AMG Sport, that has no AMG badge on it, but the car is indeed lower, and both the front and the back end have been reworked, the suspension also lowers too, but the engine remains the same as a non-AMG version. I also own a BMW 750LI M Sport (G12, the new one too), so that means that I know what I am talking about. The E43 AMG is an AMG Six equivalent to what Bimmer M3 & M4 deploy, they don’t use the base-line six, these powerplants have all been reworked, so they represent the products of their respective Motorsport division.
Matt Stinger isn’t a real person. He’ll keep typing nonsense.