Audi, BMW, or Mercedes: Which is Best?
Three of the most popular household brands in the car industry. Though which is best for you? In this article, we pit the three brands against each other to help you decide.
The day has finally come when you get to make your dream of owning a premium car a reality. For most people, the likes of Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz come to mind.
Three popular German manufacturers, each with an impressive array of high-performance, luxury vehicles. But how do you make your choice? In this article, we look at Audi cars vs BMW and Mercedez-Benz cars, and which is best for you.
Which is better – Audi, BMW, or Mercedes?
All three manufacturers are renowned for quality and prestige, with a long history dating back to around the First World War.
The question as to which is right for you between Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz cars will depend on your priorities. Below, we compare each manufacturer based on some key factors.
Audi vs BMW vs Mercedes performance
If performance is high on your wish list, there’s one brand that stands out as a clear choice. BMW cars are known for their higher-performance engines, offering a sporty, exhilarating drive loved by many.
Drawing on 100 years of engineering expertise and the latest technology, BMW engines are faster and more thrilling than most. TwinPower Turbo technology in their petrol, diesel, and hybrid engines means you not only get to enjoy more power but also efficiency.
The fastest can be found in the BMW M range, with models clocking impressive 0-62mph speeds. They are also made with more performance features, like sportier brakes and suspension.
Audi and Mercedes cars are arguably still impressive when it comes to performance. However, much of their appeal lies in their luxurious interiors and innovative technology.
Audi vs BMW vs Mercedes maintenance
For those concerned about maintenance, you may be wondering which is cheaper to maintain across Audi, BMW, and Mercedes.
In recent years, the cheapest car from the three to maintain would not have been Audi, though times have now changed. A recent study from the repair network WhoCanFixMyCar showed that Audi cars are now cheaper to maintain than BMW and Mercedes.
The study revealed average maintenance costs across the three brands, based on quotes from 2023. These were calculated based on four different services: full service, interim service, MOT, and aircon regas.
Taking a full service, for example, Audi customers would have paid around £198.70. While BMW drivers would have been charged £202.33, and Mercedes customers charged £206.15.
MOT costs were similar across the board with an average of £43, while BMW offered the lowest price for an aircon regas at £68.50.
On the whole, Audi, BMW, and Mercedes cars typically see higher maintenance bills given their more premium design. If you want to avoid large, unexpected costs, service plans are a great way to get organised and enjoy savings.
At Vertu Motors, we offer a Priority Service plan, allowing you to save up to 25% compared to one-off rates. Other benefits include:
- Servicing, parts, labour, and VAT covered for the next three years (MOT can also be included).
- No hidden costs with prices fixed throughout your plan.
- Interest-free monthly payments to suit your budget.
- Complete flexibility with the option to cancel or transfer your plan to another vehicle if things change.
Audi vs BMW vs Mercedes resale value
A big concern for motorists buying a car is the resale value – i.e. how much the car will be worth versus the purchasing price. This is based on how quickly the car depreciates over time. Normally, this is between 15-35% in the first year and from 50% or more in the next few years.
Some of the factors that impact depreciation include:
- Mileage – the higher the mileage on your car, the less it will be worth.
- Previous owners – cars with more previous owners will also depreciate faster than those with fewer.
- Condition – interior, exterior or bodywork damage will also reduce the resale value of a car.
- Service history – a missing or incomplete service history can also reduce the value of your car.
- Warranty – a longer warranty can positively affect your resale value if there are still a few years remaining.
- Size – larger cars depreciate faster than smaller cars as they will cost more to run.
- Road tax – cars that use more fuel will be charged higher road tax each year which may affect the resale value, making them less desirable.
It is difficult to say categorically whether Audi, BMW, or Mercedes is better for retaining resale value. All cars depreciate - some models more than others. So it’s safe to say that all manufacturers will have their share of faster and slower depreciating models.
Observing the UK car market is a good way to estimate resale value. If a newer Mercedes-Benz comes out, for instance, with upgraded technology, you might find your current model is of less value.
Similarly, where supply is large, models with better mileage or more desirable features will maintain value.
Browse Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz at Vertu Motors
At Vertu Motors, we offer a wide range of the latest Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz cars for sale. With both new and approved used models in a variety of trims and specifications, you’re sure to find your ideal car.
Looking for something more sustainable? You’ll also find a range of electric and hybrid Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz cars for sale.
Book an appointment with our expert sales team, who will be happy to show you a selection of models suited to your preferences.
Browse our latest deals below, or get in touch with our friendly team if you have any questions.
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