Yes, from a mechanical perspective, the BMW is recognised as a more driver-focussed car than a Mercedes.

I guess the original comment (BMW is a poor man's Merc) alluded to financial constraints, in that if a poor man (BMW owner) had more money, they'd buy a Merc.

Well, the BMW range goes from $30K for a 116 to $345,000 for a 760Li, so how is a 760Li a poor man's Merc?!

If I had more than $345,000 a Merc would be about the last car I'd buy. After watching Transporter 2, a Convertible black Murcielago is pretty high on my list!

Mind you, you can imagine the thought process: $350k to spend. What shall I get? a 760Li, a CL63AMG, an Aston Martin Vantage or a Lamborghini Gallardo...jeeez that's a tough one - I've always wanted a CL63 AMG over a Lamborghini - NOT!