For many years, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the BMW 7 Series have done battle in the upper echelons of motoring. Both have introduced a slew of innovations and while they appear to be similar in execution, this German duo is like chalk and cheese. Stuttgart's finest has always taken a stately approach, placing comfort and refinement above everything else. Munich's riposte, however, did the same - but with a sporting streak.

As such, both have amassed loyal followings from plutocrats who require plush transportation. But the recently revealed 7er is a massive departure for BMW, both in terms of style and execution. The controversial radiator grille and split headlamp design are certainly polarizing, but it's fair to say the front facia is not the big Bimmer's best feature. Interestingly, the much-despised headlamp treatment seems to work rather well when applied to the more conservative S-Class.

German digital artist Andras Veres decided to impose the BMW's front end onto the Mercedes and, we have to say, the Benz wears the split-headlamp design better. Then again, the styling feature doesn't have to fight the traditional Tri-star grille for attention and lends the Benz a sinister look that's missing from the W223 generation. That being said, we still think Merc's original front end is the most appealing of the three.

First seen on the facelifted version of the BMW X7, the distinctive headlight treatment has sparked voracious debate amongst BMW lovers. Some love it, while others abhor the drastic design departure. Whatever you may think of it, there's no denying the X7 and brand new 7 Series have plenty of overtaking presence that is arguably lacking in the more demure S-Class.

Recently, another rendering artist applied the split headlight design to the sleeker 8 Series, with equally surprising results. Then again, the svelte-looking 8 Series also sports a far less ostentatious grille than the 7 Series and X7, so perhaps it's the large grille that just doesn't work with this particular headlight design. Divisive looks or not, BMW's luxury sedan is itching to give the S-Class a black eye and, judging by the tech on offer, it may just succeed.

The W223 was also subjected to a render a few years back when a digital artist decided to see what the latest S-Class would look like with W140 styling cues. With a boxier, more imposing overall demeanor, the render ended up looking rather sleek and, according to some, better than the original.