7 Series E38 vs E-Class W210: which is better?
BMW 7 Series E38 (1994–2001) vs Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210 (1995–2002): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210Specifications
| BMW 7 Series E38 | Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210 | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 1994–2001 | 1995–2002 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.5 V8 (735i) | 2.8 V6 (E280) |
| Power, up to | 235 hp | 204 hp |
| Torque, up to | 320 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | rear-wheel drive | rear-wheel drive |
| Length | 5 024 mm | 4 818 mm |
| Width | 1 862 mm | 1 799 mm |
| Height | 1 435 mm | 1 441 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 930 mm | 2 833 mm |
| Fuel tank | 85 L | 80 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 68 375 ₸ | ≈ 41 025 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
BMW 7 Series E38
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 235 hp
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large fuel tank: 85 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Gearbox ZF 5HP/6HP: bushing and mechatronics wear
- Age: the last cars were built in 2001, condition is everything
Gearbox (ZF 5HP/6HP): bushing and mechatronic wear; shift shocks.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210
Pros
- Gearbox Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic): very reliable
- Powerful versions: up to 204 hp
- Large tank: 80 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Gearbox Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic): leaking connector adapter and wiring
- Age: the last cars were built in 2002, condition is everything
Gearbox (Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic)): very reliable; leaks from the connector adapter and wiring.
Which one to choose
- 7 Series E38 — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank.
- E-Class W210 — if you care more about: kz tax 2026.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: 7 Series E38 or E-Class W210?
7 Series E38: up to 235 hp, E-Class W210: up to 204 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: 7 Series E38 — about 68 375 ₸, E-Class W210 — about 41 025 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.
Other comparisons
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