BMW 5 series is a more dynamic driving. BMW 3 series engine produces 27 HP less power than BMW 5 series, whereas torque is 20 NM less than BMW 5 series. Due to the lower power, BMW 3 series reaches 100 km/h speed 0.4 seconds later.
Fuel consumption
Fuel consumption (l/100km):
5.9
6.7
Real fuel consumption:
7.7 l/100km
9.0 l/100km
The BMW 3 series is a better choice when it comes to fuel economy. By specification BMW 3 series consumes 0.8 litres less fuel per 100 km than the BMW 5 series, which means that by driving the BMW 3 series over 15,000 km in a year you can save 120 litres of fuel. By comparing actual fuel consumption based on user reports, BMW 3 series consumes 1.3 litres less fuel per 100 km than the BMW 5 series.
Fuel tank capacity:
63 litres
70 litres
Full fuel tank distance:
1060 km in combined cycle
1040 km in combined cycle
1310 km on highway
1290 km on highway
810 km with real consumption
770 km with real consumption
Ground clearance:
144 mm (5.7 inches)
142 mm (5.6 inches)
Engines
Average engine lifespan:
350'000 km
350'000 km
Engine resource depends largely on regular maintenance and the quality of the oils and fuels used.
Engine production duration:
6 years
6 years
Dimensions
Length:
4.53 m
4.84 m
Width:
1.82 m
1.85 m
Height:
1.42 m
1.47 m
BMW 3 series is smaller. BMW 3 series is 31 cm shorter than the BMW 5 series, 3 cm narrower, while the height of BMW 3 series is 5 cm lower.
Trunk capacity:
460 litres
520 litres
BMW 5 series has more luggage space. BMW 3 series has 60 litres less trunk space than the BMW 5 series.
Turning diameter:
11 meters
11.4 meters
The turning circle of the BMW 3 series is 0.4 metres less than that of the BMW 5 series, which means BMW 3 series can be easier to manoeuvre in tight streets and parking spaces.
Power steering:
Electric power steering
Hydraulic power steering
Electric power steering is simpler, quieter, more fuel-efficient, more configurable and provides additional features such as auto-steering for lane assist and parking. The disadvantages of electric power steering are possible overheating under prolonged load conditions and insufficient feedback (feeling) during steering.
BMW 5 series has slightly fewer faults. Deffect rate in annual technical inspection is similar for both cars, it's slightly higher for BMW 3 series, so BMW 5 series quality could be a bit better.
