BMW 3 series is more dynamic to drive. BMW 3 series engine produces 48 HP more power than BMW 5 series, whereas torque is 120 NM more than BMW 5 series. Thanks to more power BMW 3 series reaches 100 km/h speed 1.7 seconds faster.
Fuel consumption
Fuel consumption (l/100km):
5.7
6.9
Real fuel consumption:
7.1 l/100km
7.1 l/100km
The BMW 3 series is a better choice when it comes to fuel economy. By specification BMW 3 series consumes 1.2 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 180 litres of fuel.
Fuel tank capacity:
61 litres
70 litres
Full fuel tank distance:
1070 km in combined cycle
1010 km in combined cycle
1270 km on highway
1270 km on highway
850 km with real consumption
980 km with real consumption
Drive type
Wheel drive type:
Rear wheel drive (RWD)
All wheel drive (AWD, 4x4)
Ground clearance:
144 mm (5.7 inches)
142 mm (5.6 inches)
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
no data
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.
