Once upon a time, three German luxury brands could easily be distinguished. Audi was a lesser known option for knowledgeable people, mercedes benz was the traditional and unchanging king of the market, and BMW is an ideal option for VIP buyers. But that was in the 80s, and the world has changed since then.
Changes
Each of the BMW and Mercedes companies in 2014 sold more cars than Chrysler, and Audi is a full-fledged player on big market with an increase in sales Last year at 15 percent (although this is still only about half of what Mercedes sells). All three companies sell a wide range of models ranging from advantageous offers and ending with luxury cars with an initial cost of thirty thousand dollars, various models SUVs, 12-cylinder luxury cars, the price of which can exceed 150 thousand dollars. It's worth taking a look at where each brand is at the moment.
Audi
A lot of people were Audi fans. Is the same Quattro model with all-wheel drive was one of the most popular and sought after. In addition, these cars quickly lost in price, so anyone could afford to change used models quite often. However, then it was easy to notice that Audi lacked dynamics, even the most sports models. To date, most Audi models remain not as dynamic as other representatives of the automotive market. Only the R8 boasts perfect handling and excellent dynamics. However, these machines have their own strengths - for example, incredible design interiors. In addition, if compared not with German monsters, then Audi will always have an advantage over many world models. But at the same time, many people still see the Audi simply as a higher-class Volkswagen.
"BMW"
This brand is used to feel like a king on the road. Most models impress with their combination of power and refinement, but with all the power, the engines ran smoothly and almost silently. True, many BMW owners are immediately labeled a dandy, but this can be tolerated, since the performance of these machines is at an incredible height. Recently, however, new BMW models can be disappointing with their performance, which has been severely reduced in order to reduce emissions. Of course, this is a useful thing, but now BMW no longer stands above all other brands, but almost caught up with them.
"Mercedes"
Mercedes cars have always had a certain depth. They did not allow you to accelerate to huge speeds in record time, but the more you spent behind the wheel of such a car, the more you began to appreciate it. With the exception of some quality problems, since 1996, Mercedes has remained true to its traditions and its image. This brand has a history that has demonstrated high quality over the years. Of course, the interiors of the Mercedes are still inferior to the Audi, but these cars are still pleasant to be inside, and many people choose them.
In order to understand this issue, it is necessary to decide which models are to be compared. Both German brands adhere to the standards highest quality, have their own automotive traditions, so all models separate brand have certain general characteristics, style and so on.
compare old budget model Audi c new BMW prestige class would be inappropriate and impractical. For the convenience of comparing the maintenance of brands, we will select the models corresponding in class, functionality and popularity - the BMW “troika” and the Audi “four”.
Comparative advantages and disadvantages
Let's start with the fact that both manufacturers have tried to provide their cars with maximum resistance to corrosion.
The body, chassis, all mechanics do not rust for a very long time, so you can safely purchase cars of both brands if you plan to operate them in difficult climatic conditions. Note that Audi cars sometimes have problems with wiper drive corrosion, but its repair is not expensive, therefore it is not a serious argument in terms of cost savings.
In its latest lines, Audi cars are equipped with richer interior trim, so they require appropriate care. Any damage to the skin entails quite significant costs for the replacement of expensive material, although salons BMW cars in high cost interior decoration not far behind.
Car owners feel big financial expenses in case of engine problems. Most often, Audi thermostats and compressors fail on small engines, diesel engine lines are not reliable enough. However, gasoline engines break very rarely. bavarian engines extremely durable, designed for big runs, but even here it is not without problems, because turbines and fuel injectors often require repair on turbodiesels.
Cars of both brands have problems with automatic transmissions, while modifications with "mechanics" are very successful. Not much, but inferior to Audi in terms of strength with its chassis, brake system, electronics and suspensions.
BMW requires a special approach to the use of oils. Only the highest quality and most expensive brands should be filled, otherwise problems will arise in the gearbox, engine and other systems.
What ends up being cheaper?
There is no single answer to this question, since a lot depends on the configuration and modification, driving style, operating conditions and other factors.
In general, we can conclude that Audi cars are less reliable in most of their parameters and require repair more often, but this is more than offset by the fact that Audi maintenance and repair is less expensive, ranging from Supplies and ending with the cost of failed parts. Moreover, the availability of all components for Audi, both at the original and at secondary market, wins.
When choosing a car, it is desirable to initially assess the expected load on the car: how often you plan to drive, at what distances, on what roads and in what climatic conditions. You need to understand that the differences between the highest quality brands are quite insignificant, therefore, in repair as bmw cars, and Audi are relatively rare. Given this aspect, from a financial point of view, it is preferable to look Audi models, since in working order they require less expensive "consumables", and in the event of breakdowns - less expensive spare parts.
Our technical center Audi NIVUS conducts Maintenance and elimination of breakdowns of Audi cars, while we are especially attentive to damage prevention, provide the driver with advice and recommendations on how to use his model as efficiently as possible, focus on strong and weaknesses each specific machine.
German business class cars are rightly considered the best in the world. The only question is which of them to put at the head of the rating. In today's comparative test, Spanish experts tried to answer the question that torments many motorists: who better Audi A6, BMW 5-Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
Exterior and interior
It makes no sense to pay much attention to the design of the test participants, since it is extremely difficult to give preference to anyone here. The exterior of each of the test subjects has everything to look like an exemplary business sedan: recognizable style, elegance and respectability. Most comfortable fit the interior is provided by Mercedes thanks to the highest roof in the trio.
Most free space in the rear seats is offered by Audi, and the best interior ergonomics is demonstrated by BMW, which has the most comfortable seats. Most voluminous trunk has an E-class (540 liters versus 530 liters for the A6 and 520 liters for the fifth series), however, the Audi compartment is better suited to accommodate luggage due to rectangular shape and the presence of convertible second-row seat backs. The rivals of the "Ingolstadt" do not have such an opportunity.
In terms of equipment with standard safety devices, Mercedes is the leader, in the arsenal of which there are seven inflatable pillows, ABS, BAS emergency braking), ESP (dynamic stabilization system), ASR ( traction control), PRE-SAFE (system preventive security), Attention Assist (driver fatigue warning system). Audi is equipped with eight airbags, ABS, EBV (brake force distribution system), SAFE (emergency braking system), ESP, ASR, EDS (electronic differential lock) and Audi hold assist (anti-recoil system). IN basic equipment BMW included six air cushions, ABS, BA (Brake Assist), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) and DBC (Dynamic Brake Control).
Driving performance and handling
All test machines were equipped with 4-cylinder diesel engines and automatic transmissions. the highest power and the torque was realized by a 2.1-liter Mercedes engine (204 hp / 500 Nm). The two-liter units "Audi" and "BMW" produced 177 hp / 380 Nm and 184 hp / 380 Nm, respectively. With such a tangible advantage in traction and power characteristics, it was not difficult for the E-class to surpass its rivals in all parameters of accelerating dynamics, even despite the greater curb weight (1735 kg versus 1700 kg for the fifth series and 1660 for the A6). The second in this nomination was Audi, which, in turn, demonstrated the advantage in the speed of gaining speed over BMW. Measurements of braking dynamics revealed a slight superiority of the "five". When decelerating from 60/80/100/120/140 km/h braking distances"BMW" was 13/23/37/55/72 m against 13/23/37/55/75 m for "Mercedes" and 13/24/38/55/74 m for "Audi".
The best efficiency indicators were chalked up by BMW and Mercedes. On average, both cars consumed 6.1 liters of fuel per 100 km, with the only difference that the fifth series was more economical when driving at a speed of 90 km / h (5.0 l / 100 km) and in the city (7 l / 100 km ), and the E-class consumed less fuel at 120 km / h (5.6 l). At Audi consumption diesel fuel in combined cycle turned out to be higher than that of competitors by 0.2 l (6.3 l / 10 km), and in other modes the “six” turned out to be more voracious. BMW drove the farthest at one gas station (1154 km) due to the most voluminous fuel tank. Mercedes had enough fuel for 1026 km, Audi for 963 km.
Audi handling left the most pleasant impression. Compared to rivals, the car from Ingolstadt finds mutual language with the driver, better predictability and more tenacious hold on the road in corners. BMW's "five" is comparable to the A6 in terms of responsiveness, but is not as accommodating in sharp maneuvers and reaches the limits of stability earlier on a winding track. Unlike the two “Bavarians”, Mercedes does not pretend to be an “athlete”, is endowed with smooth reactions and is more prone to body roll. At the same time, the E-class outperforms its rivals in terms of directional stability and demonstrates the best ride in the trio. The most reliable internal sound insulation at low and medium speeds is provided by BMW, and at high speeds by Audi.
Verdict
According to the test results, the Mercedes E-class wins a formal victory thanks to the best driving performance in the trio and excellent basic equipment. However, it is worth considering that Mercedes is the most expensive test participant. The difference in price between a native of Stuttgart and a test BMW and Audi exceeds 7 and 10 thousand euros, respectively. Having paid such money, the buyer can choose more powerful versions Bavarian models. The second step of the podium is occupied by A6, who receives a prize for best balance consumer qualities. Closes the system BMW. For all its merits, the fifth series missed points in such categories as driving performance and standard equipment.
Based on the materials of "Autostrada" (Spain)
Prepared by Denis Alexandrov
Test Data
Factory specifications
What are the chances against the Audi A6 2.0 TDI and the BMW 520d? Let's take a look at the competition between premium business class sedans. The Germans tested German luxury sedans, we have studied the results and share them with our readers.
New Mercedes E class(2016) a completely different car compared to the models we've seen before. And it's not about appearance, but about a new round of evolution, new paradigm model creation. He is not what he used to be.
This is easy to prove, just look at restyled version W212 body and compare it with the new one. Outwardly new Mercedes-Benz generation became very similar to the S-Class. The W213 model fits perfectly into the new family, taking a middle position between the "younger" and "older" brothers, while its maximum equipment technically almost equal to the premium S-coy.
With the previous body, it was the other way around. The sedan seemed to stand apart, and this was evident even after global restyling. There was a feeling that the Germans seemed to be preparing us for a total change of model, no more double headlights, no improvisation in style. You need to look up to the leader.
Indeed, if the appearance of the S-Class is so fond of millions of motorists, why not let it go to the masses, while unifying the technical component? The fact has come true, the plan has been realized.
Who do journalists oppose to the German against the E-Class? Eternal rivals, a business sedan from Munich, the BMW 5-Series and the Audi A6, which is known to have been developed in Ingolstadt.
The Germans took the most popular and widespread models in Europe: Mercedes E 220 d, BMW 520d and Audi A6 2.0 TDI. And they went with them on a trip along the roads of Germany.
All tested cars have similar two-liter four-cylinder engines, the power of each instance is suitable for 200 hp. There are also turbochargers on board and automatic boxes gears (from seven to ten steps). The A6 is driven by the front axle, the other two sedans are rear-wheel drive.
INTERIOR, CAPACITY, INSIDE CONVENIENCE E-CLASS, A6 AND 5-SERIES
Even at first glance, the Mercedes E-Class, thanks to its harmonious proportions and characteristic appearance(again, remember the S-Class) looks more impressive than its opponents. Psychological trick coolly thought out and easily captivates an unsophisticated audience. It seems to people that in the cabin it is more shifting and.
Salon W213 inside is presented in all its updated charm. The cockpit architecture is a mixture of C and S-Class, while technically leaning in favor of "big brother". Two large monitors will unobtrusively tell about this, more refined than in the interior design and the general cozy atmosphere of the living room in expensive house. Large doors provide easy access to the spacious interior. Eshka has a technological and modern salon.
What about the competitors? Competitors in style are seriously lagging behind. Not the last role in this backlog was played by the early start of sales of BMW and Audi models. The design of the five BMW was six years behind, the Audi five. And it really feels. Perhaps many will say that style preferences are purely individual and we fully agree with this. It is impossible to compare sports and aggressive BMW with a refined Mercedes or Audi. At any time, competitors were designed for different categories of buyers, and they have remained so to this day.
Therefore, we immediately move on to the space of salons. Who is the winner in this category? Nobody. All three limousines will provide a decent amount of cubic meters, even the tallest and largest passengers will not be cramped, even in the back seat.
In terms of ease of use, the differences between the three Germans are also not felt, the difference is in the details and presentation, otherwise the thoughtfulness of each of them is on top. The driver and his passengers will definitely not have to think for the designers. All controls are located where you would expect them to be and at such a distance that anyone can easily use them.
Perhaps Mercedes can be conditionally called the winner in this part, nevertheless new model received many touch controls, including on the steering wheel. But you first need to get used to this convenience, it will take some time to switch from analog control (on Audi and BMW) to electronic control.
For perfectionists, one of the most important parameters for the chic interior is its build quality. Here the leader was ..., no, not Mercedes, but Audi. The guys from Ingolstadt know a lot about the perfect fit of interior details. Excellent quality materials, precise joints, attention to detail even in those places that are essentially hidden from the eyes of users, the interior of the Audi is a monolithic composition.
The other two subjects have one problem for two, there are absolutely miserable, barely noticeable flaws. It seems like it's okay, but in an expensive business class, I would like more thorough quality control and height of performance.
Large trunk and three-piece folding backrest rear seat(40:20:40) bring Mercedes more bonus points.
HIGH-TECH E-CLASS
The trump card in the Mercedes E 220 d's sleeve is its safety. Especially for the E-Class in the back, he developed many auxiliary protection systems, electronic security systems that protect not only everyone in the cabin, but people near the car. Here is a partial list of safety and convenience options and features in Mercedes-Benz:
head-up display
Digital dashboard
Command Online system
Matrix LED headlights
Autonomous car parking by mobile phone
Smartphone as a key to open / close doors
Lane Assist and Blind Spot Assist
Drive Pilot system, practically autopilot on the car
Emergency stop system
Emergency braking function
Speed Limit Pilot
Active rebuild system
Pedestrian detection system
Traffic sign recognition function
Function emergency braking when passing through intersections
Belts with integrated airbag
Pre-Safe Pulse System
Some of the systems found on the MB W213 are also present on the BMW and Audi, such as emergency braking assistance. Other features can only be seen on Mercedes, in example - new steering assistance function. The function is technological and pleasant, it is a pity that it is practically not used in everyday life. There is also active cruise control or traffic jam assistant. A similar system is on . Audi did without it.
Mercedes wins unconditional victory. But Daimler is too early to rejoice. Soon there will be new generations of its competitors, with even more advanced technologies. Then we will make a comparison, it will be fair. And not the fact that Mercedes can become better than the other two business limousines.
STEEL SPRINGS VS AIR SUSPENSION, WHICH OF THE THREE IS MORE COMFORTABLE?
During the experimental runs on the business trio, positive and negative sides standard spring suspension and newfangled air spring suspension. The test Mercedes and Audi had exactly the pneumatic running gear. At BMW, shock absorbers were installed.
In Germany, it is impossible to find roads with a sufficient variety of potholes. Therefore, the calculation of suspension types according to the highest comfort indicator is almost impossible. During the whole day of trips, it was not possible to determine the winner. All three cars showed confident handling at speeds well over 100 km / h, did not hit the face during high-speed taxiing and worked out irregularities that occasionally came across by 5 points.
Perhaps the differences were at least somehow noticeable when crossing the seams on flyovers and bridges, 19 inch wheels on Audi gave a harsher effect compared to Mercedes-Benz. And then, only at low speeds and with one person in the cabin. BMW showed that sensible spring suspension nothing different from pneumatic will not.
At the convenience of long trips Seats play a big part. In a new car from Stuttgart seats for the driver and passengers have been seriously redesigned. Improved lateral support for the backs of the front seats, increased their area. Compared to the stiffer and sportier seats in BMW and Audi, the three-pointed sedan wins the top prize for its comfort.
The low noise level inside the Mercedes cabin further consolidates the championship.
Audi and Mercedes have one important feature, additional soundproofing, which can be installed for additional money. In Munich, such an add. option not offered, so wind noise on high speeds it will still make its way into his salon.
EFFICIENT DIESELS DOMINATE THE BUSINESS CLASS
Despite the fact that gasoline engines are becoming more economical, and on the heels of engines running on natural gas, coming pervasive, diesel variation is still the No. 1 in the luxury class in Europe. About 90 percent of vehicles from Audi, BMW and Mercedes are sold in this segment with diesel engines.
To be even more attractive to potential buyers, Mercedes has developed a completely new, two-liter 194-horsepower turbodiesel. With unrivaled ease, the turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine, takes the Mercedes E 220 d away from its competitors, leaving only a trace of its led lights. Moreover, the new diesel engine is quite resourceful and has a high torque, which affects its ability to quickly accelerate even when the car is moving at a speed of more than 100 km / h. Diesel Mercedes effortlessly “does” both the Bavarian and premium sedan from . And this is not even despite its mass, it is heavier than its competitors in the segment. Consumption in the combined cycle is only 3.9 liters.
DYNAMICS AND DRIVENESS BMW, MERCEDES AND AUDI
On a Munich car as standard installed tires narrow enough and this should have had a negative impact on the handling of the machine. Perhaps this would indeed be the case if it were not for important factor, BMW thought out the suspension of its four-door so well and tuned the integral active steering that this particular car was the best of the three when it came to cornering and active high-speed taxiing. S-curves, gentle high-speed autobahn curves, sharp turns on two-lane rural roads, nowhere did the fifth series let you doubt its capabilities. Only on this test car could you really feel the sporty drive.
Unlike temperamental BMW, A6 and E-Class are quiet and measured cars. Audi has not been without problems. They had to solve a lot of problems related to steering. Firstly, as much as 400 Nm of torque is transmitted to the front wheels, and secondly, the front wheels have a multidirectional load from taxiing. In order to prevent unnecessary overloads from being transferred to the steering wheel, the Audi hydraulic booster is more powerful, which causes one, but a significant minus - the feeling of connection between the steering wheel and the wheels is lost. Plus, the Audi has a noticeable tendency to understeer in certain cornering modes.
E-Class stands apart from everyone. Despite better dynamics, the character of Mercedes is not dynamic. In it, you will not feel the same exciting moments as with a BMW. Acceleration will occur smoothly and measuredly, and you will not feel how the car is like jet aircraft exchanges the first 100 km / h. ESP clearly knows its business, allowing the car some liberties, but at the right time taking on the difficulties of stabilizing the car. high torque and rear drive, as well as disabled electronic systems give hope for an interesting drift in the winter.
Braking. Either the large-diameter wheels of Audi and Mercedes behave positively during exercise, “slowing down”, or the BMW did not have the brakes warmed up, but the braking distance from 100 km / h is 33 meters for the Stuttgarers, for a limousine from Ingolstadt a meter more. BMW needed a little more - 35 meters.
MERCEDES E 220 D- COOL BUT EXPENSIVE CAR
The biggest drawback of the new Mercedes E-Class is its price. Even the Germans notice this. Its cost is higher than its competitors not only in Russia, but throughout the world. At home, the initial price of the E 220 D starts from 47.124 Euros. For 2.0 TDI Ultra S Tronic you will have to pay 44.600 Euro banknotes. The BMW 520d is in the middle - 45.730 Euro.
In Russia diesel model The E 220 d in the Business modification will cost buyers 2,990,000 rubles. Two-litre diesel version Audi sedan Unfortunately, we don't have it. The rear-wheel drive version of the BMW 520d in the base will cost 2,600,000 rubles.
The difference of 400 thousand rubles between Mercedes / BMW is obvious and it is obvious what it is paid for. Expensive features, exclusive safety package, improved comfort, novelty and exclusivity, add to that air suspension and the very fact that we have a Mercedes-Benz in front of us and everything will fall into place. Therefore, we will not write down the high cost of a sedan in its minuses. Rather, let's say this is a Mercedes nuance that needs to be measured.
|
Specifications |
Audi A6 |
bmw 520d |
Mercedes |
|
Number of cylinders / valves. |
R4/4; turbodiesel |
R4/4; turbodiesel |
R4/4; turbodiesel |
|
Camshaft drive |
timing belt |
Chain |
Chain |
|
Volume |
1968 cc |
1995 cc |
1950 cc |
|
Power |
140 kW/190 hp |
140 kW/190 hp |
143 kW/194 hp |
|
Max. torque |
400 Nm |
400 Nm |
400 Nm |
|
checkpoint |
7-speed gearbox, with |
8 speed |
9 speed |
|
Drive unit |
front |
rear |
rear |
|
0 - 100 km/h |
8.0 sec |
7.7 sec |
7.5 sec |
|
Max speed |
232 km/h |
233 km/h |
240 km/h |
|
Real consumption |
6.7 L D / 100 km |
6.2 L D / 100 km |
6.3 L D / 100 km |
|
L/W /H |
4933/1874/1445 |
4907/1860/1464 |
4923/1852/1468 |
|
Weight |
1761 kg |
1730 kg |
1833 kg |
|
479 kg |
510 kg |
507 kg |
|
|
Starting price (in Europe) |
44.600 Euro |
45.730 Euro |
47.124 euros |
The debate about which brand of car is better - Mercedes, Audi or BMW - has been going on for more than a decade. It is these three German giants that are in the top three, while they are in approximately the same price segment.
Therefore, it is very difficult to give an unequivocal answer, you have to take into account a lot of factors:
- specifications;
- cabin comfort;
- safety.
Also of great importance are the opinions of experts, sales levels in different countries. In addition, various ratings are compiled every year in the world, the main of which is “ Best car of the year".
In this article on the site we will try to figure out which is better: Audi or Mercedes.
Expert opinion is critical. The best car of the year is determined in many countries. So, in 2015, at the motor show in New York, he was recognized as the best Mercedes-Benz C-class. He was able to leave far behind the BMW 2 series, updated Volkswagen Passat B8, Nissan Qashqai and Mazda 2.
Laurels of the winner in the nomination the best sport car years in the USA also got Mercedes AMG GT. Here, many models competed with him, among which were the Audi TT and Audi S3.
Mercedes is also ahead of Audi in the European nomination A Car of the Year, although it lost first place to Citroen C4 Cactus (248 points), Mercedes C-class (221 points). Audi cars are not even in the top five.
But in Russia they love Audi more.
Yes, according to Russian motorists Audi brand is considered the best in the following categories:
- novelty of the year - Audi TT;
- premium brand of the year.
Audi TT also counted best coupe 2015.
The most interesting thing is that the best car for the city in 2015, the Russians chose UZ Daewoo Matiz. And Lada Kalina Cross became the best all-rounder cross-country ability, scoring more points than even the Audi A6 AllRoad.
Well, if we analyze the data for all those years that there is an award "A Car of the Year" in Europe as part of the Geneva car showroom, then Mercedes and Audi only once became the best:
- Mercedes-Benz S-class W116 - 1974;
- Audi 80 - 1973.
Specifications
It is clear that comparing all model line these giants of the German car industry, we will not, but here are some iconic models that can be compared.
Three crossover models competed in 2014:
- Mercedes GLA - 170 hp, 220 CDI 4 Matic DCT, 6.1 l/100 km;
- Audi Q3 - 177 hp, 2.0 TDi Quattro S Tronic, 6.3 l/100 km;
- BMW X1 - 184 hp, xDrive 20d, automatic transmission, 6.1 l/100 km.
That is, it is clear that the cars are the same in their class: all-wheel drive crossovers, with almost the same power diesel engines and the same fuel consumption in the combined cycle. All are equipped with an automatic transmission.
What did the test drive show?
Mercedes GLA - there is a lack of power, competitors calmly bypass it on a straight line. A tank volume of 50 liters is enough for 800 km, while Audi and BMW cover 1010 and 960 km, respectively, at one gas station.
True, Mercedes is "stuffed" with a mass of electronics, all kinds of sensors. So, if you buy a car not for racing, but for family long trips, then the Mercedes GLA will be an excellent choice.
It is worth noting this fact: in terms of their dimensions, both Mercedes and BMW X1 are inferior to the Audi Q3, that is, Audi has the most spacious and comfortable interior. But on the other hand, Audi is inferior in its exterior - Mercedes and BMW look really cooler and more aggressive (although this is not for everyone).
When the experts calculated all the pros and cons, analyzed the capabilities of the cars on the track, and also looked at the price tags, the following picture turned out:
- BMW - 470 points (excellent technical characteristics, quite spacious salon, although less than the Audi, recognizable appearance);
- Audi - 467 points (capacious, soft suspension, good engine And fast box gear, but the appearance is not very good);
- Mercedes - 450 (excellent handling, prestigious look, but for this class rather weak engine, not spacious enough interior).
Mercedes also let us down because of the inflated cost.
Of course, the results of such tests should not be taken too seriously. It's no secret that crossovers are the prerogative of BMW. Audi and Mercedes are more associated with respectable and executive sedans. And in this segment, they could give odds to any other model.
