While both brands are great luxary brands, I peronally think BMW makes the better car in Germany. My 98 5 Series has been flawless. Sure the engine died in its first year and was relaced under warrenty, its has been flawless otherwise while my mercedes has been a nightmare for breakdowns. My wifes VW is even worse. VW is having alot of problems now with their new models and they are the worse built german car in my opinion.

Best to Worse
1)BMW
2)Mercedes
3) Opal
4)VW (incl. Audi, Por.)