Would you recommend the 2008 BMW 520d SE or the Mercedes-Benz E220 CDI?

I have found two saloon cars for a similar price. Both are 2008 models with full service history and will come with a 2-year warranty. The dealer will take my wife's car as a trade-in. The cars are a BMW 520d SE with cream leather at 97,000 miles, and a Mercedes-Benz E220CDI at 87,000 miles, also with cream leather. Both cars are in very good condition. Which would be more reliable and cheaper to run for two years and 30,000 miles a year?

Asked on 8 June 2013 by SW, Eire

Answered by Honest John
Probably the Mercedes. I'm guessing it's a post-2006 facelift W211 with 'Venetian blind' effect diffusers over the main headlights. It's not as good to drive as the BMW, but is a better long term bet. Tens of thousands of European taxi drivers can't be wrong.
Similar questions
I am looking to purchase a 2009 or 2010 Audi TT 2.0 coupe but do i go for the petrol or diesel version, I do approx 15k miles per year and do i go for the full leather or half leather seats.
I am planning on buying a car for my partner and we were looking at 2008-2010 Hyundai i30 1.6 diesel with less than 40,000 miles. Any good and bad pointers or advice on this one? He will be mostly doing...
I have an Audi A4 Avant S line quattro TDI 2.0 litre diesel (170PS motor) with a BRD series engine. I purchased the car new in 2006 and have now done 52,000 miles with only one breakdown due to a faulty...
Related models
Nicely balanced and enjoyable handling, sharp styling, modern-looking interior, great range of engines including impressively efficient diesels.
Excellent range of refined engines. Comfortable long distance car. Superb ride quality. Models from 2006 are much improved and more reliable.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer