7 Series E38 vs S-Class W140: which is better?
BMW 7 Series E38 (1994–2001) vs Mercedes-Benz S-Class W140 (1991–1998): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class W140Specifications
| BMW 7 Series E38 | Mercedes-Benz S-Class W140 | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 1994–2001 | 1991–1998 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.5 V8 (735i) | 3.2 (S320) |
| Power, up to | 235 hp | 231 hp |
| Torque, up to | 320 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | rear-wheel drive | rear-wheel drive |
| Length | 5 024 mm | 5 113 mm |
| Width | 1 862 mm | 1 886 mm |
| Height | 1 435 mm | 1 486 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 930 mm | 3 040 mm |
| Fuel tank | 85 L | 100 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 68 375 ₸ | ≈ 66 275 ₸ |
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 S-Class W140
Pros
- Gearbox Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic): very reliable
- Powerful versions: up to 231 hp
- Large fuel tank: 100 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 1998, 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.
- S-Class W140 — if you care more about: wheelbase, fuel tank, 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 S-Class W140?
7 Series E38: up to 235 hp, S-Class W140: up to 231 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: 7 Series E38 — about 68 375 ₸, S-Class W140 — about 66 275 ₸ (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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