2019 BMW 8 Series vs. 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe: Which is Best?

2019 Mercedes Benz S Class Coupe BMW 8 Series Coupe ・ Photo by BMW / Mercedes-Benz

Before we get down to the finer details regarding the “2019 BMW 8 Series vs. 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe: Which is best?” question, let’s look at the broader picture. Both cars are full-size, high-luxury coupes. If buyers wanted anything bigger and plusher, they’d have to consider a Bentley or Rolls-Royce.

The 8 Series is all-new for 2019, while the S-Class Coupe (based on the flagship sedan) has been around for some time. This partly explains why there’s only one variant from Munich so far, as opposed to three out of Stuttgart. This could, however, work in BMW’s favor. Both makers offer convertible versions, but that’s for another time. Right now, let’s compare these fixed-roof slices of fabulousness.

Pricing

As we just mentioned, the 8 Series debuts with one model, the 2019 BMW M850i xDrive Coupe. It’s not an out-and-out M model (an M8 is in the pipeline), but it’s definitely leaning toward the sporty. Including destination charges, the starting price is $112,895.

The least expensive S-Class two-door model is the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S560 4Matic Coupe, priced from $126,945. Perhaps the cost difference of $14,050 isn’t much of an issue at this level, but the BMW comes with more power. And if we wanted the next S-Class coupe up (the AMG S63 with an 80-hp advantage over the BMW), we’d be spending an extra $44,000, which easily could become a sticking point.

Photo by BMW

Standard Equipment

Both models have full leather upholstery (even covering the dashboard), wireless charging, soft-closing doors, and all-wheel drive. Then the differences begin. The BMW comes with 20-inch alloy wheels, heated/20-way power-adjustable front seats (super-comfortable and supportive), Harman Kardon 600-watt/16-speaker surround-sound system, 12.3-inch driver display, 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, head-up display, Apple CarPlay, rear-wheel steering, plus M Sport brakes and differential.

The S-Class adds Android Auto smartphone integration (not available in any BMW), two 12.3-inch displays melded into a single unit, adaptive air suspension, blind spot monitoring, heated/ventilated/16-way power front seats, cabin air fragrance system, power rear sunshade, and a 13-speaker/590-watt Burmeister surround-sound system. While both models offer loads of standard equipment, the BMW wins here, mainly because of the lower starting price.

Photo by BMW

Options

Both cars offer extensive driver aids like adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assistance and lane keeping, 360-degree camera system, night vision systems, and even nicer audio setups. But the differences in optional equipment begin to define each car’s character.

For example, the BMW offers an extra oil cooler, high-performance tires, carbon fiber roof (to lose weight and lower the center of gravity), and an M Performance Drive Analyzer. The Benz accentuates the luxury aspect with Swarovski crystals in the headlights, massaging front seats, heated wood/leather steering wheel, heated front armrests, rear chiller compartment, and an electronically dimmed glass roof (Magic Sky Control).

Photo by Mercedes-Benz

Exterior Design

Accepting that everyone’s tastes vary, there’s a general assent over vehicle aesthetics. It’s why Aston Martin cars are typically regarded as beautiful, while the Pontiac Aztek is considered a dog’s dinner. It might be the novelty factor, but we bet we could go down Rodeo Drive in Los Angeles or through Miami’s South Beach district and turn more heads with the BMW. The hallmark double kidney grille isn’t quite as imposing as, say, the X5’s. And high tech means the slimmest headlights BMW has ever deployed. The taillights are thin, too.

The things we particularly love about the S-Class Coupe are the frameless side windows opening up a half-moon of fresh air, and the neat rear.

Photo by BMW

Interior Design

Again, one person’s masterpiece is another’s dud. The cabin of the 8 Series arguably is the less impressive of the two. You might be sitting in a rather nice version of the 3 Series or 5 Series. No doubt the ergonomics are fine for the enthusiast, but beyond the ever-present thrill of being in a BMW and, better still, driving it, there’s nothing that contributes to a greater sense of occasion.

The S-Class Coupe has an air of coming from a company that has specialized in making luxury cars for more than a century, while incorporating some high technology with those dual screens. Sure, it’s similar to its sedan sibling (a perennial best-seller), but that’s hardly a downside.

Photo by Mercedes-Benz

Engines and Transmissions

The next consideration in this quest centers around the important issue of power. Both cars have twin-turbocharged V8 engines. The BMW has a 4.4-liter version, the Benz uses a 4.0-liter unit. The M850i xDrive develops a thundering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, which goes through an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The S560 4Matic still is no slouch, but 463 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque is a lesser degree of wonderful. This engine is linked to a 9-speed automatic, although fuel consumption is no better. Both average out at 20 mpg. BMW wins here, because for cars at this rarefied level, more is always better.

Photo by BMW

Performance

BMW claims a 0-to-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds for the 8 Series Coupe, which is quick. With the right conditions, it might even be possible to shave a couple of tenths from that. Mercedes-Benz quotes a still respectable 4.4 seconds. Both have limited top speeds: 155 mph and 130 mph, respectively.

We also need to take into account not just what the cars do, but how they do it. The BMW achieves its peak torque (the strength behind the thrust) at a low 1,800 rpm and keeps delivering it until 4,600 rpm. The Benz’s maximum torque comes in at 2,000 rpm and diminishes after 4,000 rpm. The more muscular and therefore more thrilling BMW wins here.

Photo by BMW

Ride and Handling

When asking which of these two vehicles is best, dynamics are a crucial part of the answer. BMW already has injected sportiness into its current 7 Series large sedan, and the 8 Series is based on the same architecture. The all-wheel-drive system favors the rear axle for a classic sports-car feel, the steering setup delivers information from the front wheels (many reviewers have criticized recent BMW systems), and overall it feels like the 8 Series wants to involve its driver.

The Benz seems as if it intends to insulate its occupants from noises, bumps, and outside temperatures. It’s elegant, and it glides.

Photo by BMW

Comfort and Cargo

As mentioned earlier, the BMW’s multi-contour front seats are a joy, including plenty of under-thigh support. Finding the ideal driving position should be easy and quick. Not that there’s anything wrong with the S-Class seats. They’re supremely comfortable and offer a luxurious “hot stone” massage function.

Although these are full-size coupes, space in the back is limited. Rear headroom and legroom in the BMW is 33.6 and 29.5 inches, respectively. If anyone transports passengers in the back seats more frequently, they might prefer the Benz’s 37.3 and 33.4 inches (respectively). Heated rear seats also are optional with the S-Class. BMW leads trunk space at 14.8 cubic feet, while Benz offers 14.1. Both are easily big enough for golf clubs and weekend getaways.

Photo by Mercedes-Benz

And the winner is...

We think the 2019 BMW M850i xDrive Coupe is the runaway winner, with more power at a lower price and greater driver involvement. But don’t underestimate the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S560 4Matic Coupe. Its elegant looks, serene driving manners, and overall sumptuousness have their own distinct and special appeals. It ultimately comes down to how sporty or otherwise a prospective luxury coupe buyer wants to be.

There’s also another factor. The 8 Series is the newer of the two cars, reviving a badge from BMW’s history, bringing that model’s attributes of style and power in the grand tourer tradition into the 21st century. One thing we can congratulate both contenders for is that they’re not SUV/crossovers. The roads need more cars like these.

Photo by BMW