BMW 3 series petrol engines consumes on average 0.9 litres less fuel per 100 km than BMW 5 series. On average, BMW 3 series equipped with diesel engines consume 1 litres less fuel per 100 km than the BMW 5 series. This comparison does not take engine capacity into account, so to compare the fuel consumption of specific engines, select the car version!
Ground clearance:
127 - 145 mm (5 - 5.7 inches)
141 mm (5.6 inches)
Because of the higher ground clearance, BMW 5 series can perform better on bad roads - it can go over higher obstacles and bumps. At the same time, the higher ground clearance can reduce stability and handling on paved roads, especially at higher speeds.
Dimensions
Length:
4.62 m
4.91 m
Width:
1.81 m
1.86 m
Height:
1.43 m
1.46 m
BMW 3 series is smaller. BMW 3 series is 28 cm shorter than the BMW 5 series, 5 cm narrower, while the height of BMW 3 series is 3 cm lower.
Trunk capacity:
495 litres
560 litres
Trunk max capacity: with rear seats folded down
1500 litres
1670 litres
BMW 5 series has more luggage space. BMW 3 series has 65 litres less trunk space than the BMW 5 series. The maximum boot capacity (with all rear seats folded down) is larger in BMW 5 series (by 170 litres).
Turning diameter:
11.7 meters
12 meters
The turning circle of the BMW 3 series is 0.3 metres less than that of the BMW 5 series.
Gross weight (kg):
~ 2`093
~ 2`421
Safety:
The BMW 5 series scores higher in active safety technologies (stability control, lane assist, automatic braking, etc.) tests.