If you’re specifically searching for a 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, then it’s still not immediately clear which version you’re after. You see, it was in June of 2013 - exactly halfway through the year - that the fifth-generation W221 S-Class was replaced by the new sixth-generation version, the W222. In truth, both were immensely luxurious and capable limousines, with all the comfort, refinement and quality you could want. However, because the S-Class has traditionally been a showcase for Mercedes’ latest technology and innovation, stuff that eventually trickles down to more humble models over time, then the later W222 version comes with considerably more in the way of gadgetry.

Strengths:

Hugely roomy inside
Top-drawer comfort and refinement
Sumptuous cabin quality

Weaknesses:

Powerful engines have high running costs
Will likely be hugely expensive to fix if something goes wrong
There’s an awful lot of stuff that could go wrong

Is the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class better than the 2013 BMW 7 Series?

Whichever of the two generations of S-Class you’re talking about, then yes. The 7 Series was always a car that - being a BMW - put emphasis on driver enjoyment, but the fact is that with most limousines, that’s a bit irrelevant because the most important person in the car, and the one that’s likely to be footing the bill, is probably sitting in the back. That means ride comfort, refinement, interior quality and a general sense of occasion are way more important, and these are all aspects that the Mercs deliver on better.