BMW Cars in India (24)

The two long-wheelbase luxury limousines are closely matched. Unlike previous iterations of the BMW 5 Series that created more of an emotional connection, this new G68 long-wheelbase model is actually the more rational choice, even compared to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. 

It's got (slightly) more space in the rear seat, better ground clearance and, as you've pointed out, more comfortable ride quality. Yet it also remains the better of the two to drive, thanks to a more powerful four-cylinder petrol engine and sharper dynamics. 

However, despite all this, the E-Class remains the superior choice, if only slightly. That's because where it lags behind the 5, it does so by the smallest of margins. 

And where it excels, it goes far ahead. More than brand value, it's the sense of luxury in the E-Class that's far greater. Especially in the rear seat with power-reclining seat backs, softer seats and powered window blinds (a sore miss on the BMW). 

As the car is for your father, and presuming he is primarily chauffeur-driven, this will prove far more appealing. And for the times when you have to drive, the E-Class is no slouch either.

Firstly, there is no Mercedes GLE 450d variant. There is a diesel 400d, but the variant you must be meaning is the Mercedes GLE 450 4MATIC petrol, which compares with the BMW X5 xDrive40i petrol.  

Both the Mercedes-Benz GLE450  and the BMW X5 are very closely matched in power, using 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engines with 48V mild-hybrid systems. The GLE 450 4MATIC produces 375-380hp whilst the BMW X5 xDrive40i produces a near identical 375-380hp. Top of Form

The BMW X5 has slightly higher torque at 520Nm to the GLE 450’s 500Nm, which contributes to a more sporty feel. 

In fact, the BMW X5 is known for a more sporty, engaging driving character, with quicker acceleration. Whilst the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 delivers power in a very linear, smooth manner, prioritising comfort and luxury. 

While the Mercedes-Benz GLS and BMW X7 are spacious, practical and big on road presence, since you will just be driving yourself on weekends, their added size holds no value and simply makes them more cumbersome. As such, we'd recommend the Range Rover Sport, which has the added benefit of greater snob value than the Merc or BMW. Both its straight-six engines - petrol and diesel - are powerful and refined; in fact, they sound really nice.

And though this is a big car for a five-seater, it's reasonably fun to drive. Additionally, consider the Porsche Cayenne, which, though not quite as big and imposing as the Range Rover, is even more fun to drive.

In general, supercar owners would be reluctant to give their cars away as they would be worried about how their precious cars would be used.

Also, supercar owners are very wealthy in their own right and unlikely to be enticed with a shooting fee for their car. Your best bet would be to contact supercar dealers in your area who may have some stock in hand, and they may be willing to rent the car to you before it gets sold on.