A long time ago I cut out an excellent article from Motor Trend. The article was well done which is why I must fine it and post it. It was done at the time in the late 1970s when Mercedes-Benz S-class was the trusty w108 280SEL M130 motor. It was compared to a BMW 3.0. sedan also a Six but with a standard transmission.
The article goes on to explore the mind set of designers & clientel on both sides of Germany. It probes the mind set of Bavarian people as opposed to what they call a more conservative side of Stuttgart clintel who buy Mercedes-Benz.
Who is better ? but with out intention after you read this article you get a better understanding of both companies. Since the article was written in Germany you come away with a good understanding of both philosophys of the time.
It was one of the better article of the time.

Bob Geco