2023 BMW 3 SERIES VS. BMW 5 SERIES: WHICH OF THE TWO SEDANS TO CHOOSE?
2023 BMW 3 SERIES VS. BMW 5 SERIES: WHICH OF THE TWO SEDANS TO CHOOSE?
Posted on April 9, 2021
Undeniable BMW DNA, but individual personalities.
The first round of this 3 Series vs. 5 Series match: the exterior styling, which will be your first exposure to each vehicle. One thing is clear: both sedans are authentic bimmers in their respective lines. With their typical BMW headlight design, iconic double kidney grille, extended plunging bonnet, and rearward passenger compartment ending in a short trunk when viewed from the side, the 3 Series or 5 Seriescan't deny their BMW genes, and that's just as well! However, each of them has its own character: the lighting signature of the headlights is more complex for the 3 Series, while more streamlined and L-shaped on its bigger sibling. The taillights are also more tapered on the former, while those of the 5 Series are more massive but still very dynamic. On the side, the 3 Series is also slenderer, while the 5 Series is naturally more imposing in its body volumes. So, your choice will have to be guided by your own preferences! If you want a sedan with slimmer and sportier lines, the 2023 BMW 3 Series will be your best option. If, on the other hand, you would like a more charismatic BMW sedan that will make a statement on the roads between the West Island and the North Shore of Montreal, then the 2023 BMW 5 Series is your best bet.Same range structure, but more power for the 5 Series.
You know it as well as we do, a premium sedan is judged more on its mechanical aspects than on the design, especially if it's German. In our BMW 3 Series vs. BMW 5 Seriescomparison, our two protagonists are no exception, even in Montreal! Here is a summary of the 2023 BMW 3 Series and 2023 5 Series technical specifications, in table form for greater clarity!3 Series vs. 5 Series Technical Data Comparison
2023 BMW 3 Series | 2023 BMW 5 Series | ||
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Version | Specifications | Version | Specifications |
330e | Plug-in hybrid powertrain (2.0L 4-cylinder + electric motor with 12.0-kWh battery), 288 hp, 310 lb-ft RWD, 8-speed automatic Price (MSRP): starting at $ 54,900 |
530i xDrive | Turbo 2.0L 4-cylinder, 248 hp, 258 lb-ft AWD, 8-speed automatic Price (MSRP): starting at $ 66,000 |
330i xDrive | Turbo 2.0L 4-cylinder, 255 hp, 295 lb-ft AWD, 8-speed automatic Price (MSRP): starting at $ 55,000 |
530e xDrive | Plug-in hybrid (2.0L 4-cylinder + electric motor with 12.0-kWh battery), 288 hp, 310 lb-ft AWD, 8-speed automatic Price (MSRP): starting at $ 69,000 |
330e xDrive | Plug-in hybrid powertrain (2.0L 4-cylinder + electric motor with 12.0-kWh battery), 288 hp, 310 lb-ft AWD, 8-speed automatic Price (MSRP): starting at $ 58,900 |
540i xDrive | 3.0L turbo 6-cylinder, 335 hp, 332 lb-ft AWD, 8-speed automatic Price (MSRP): starting at $ 76,000 |
M340i xDrive | 3.0L turbo 6-cylinder, 382 hp, 369 lb-ft AWD, 8-speed automatic Price (MSRP): starting at $ 68,000 |
M550i xDrive | Turbo 4.4L V8, 523 hp, 553 lb-ft AWD, 8-speed automatic Price (MSRP): starting at $ 89,900 |
M3 | 3.0L turbo 6-cylinder, 473 hp, 406 lb-ft RWD, 6-speed manual Price (MSRP): starting at $ 89,500 |
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M3 Competition | 3.0L turbo inline 6-cylinder, 503 hp, 479 lb-ft AWD, 8-speed automatic Price (MSRP): starting at $ 96,400 |
M5 Competition | Turbo 4.4L V8, 617 hp, 553 lb-ft AWD, 8-speed automatic Price (MSRP): starting at $ 128,800 |
Flawless, highly luxurious and ultra-technological interiors.
Finally, the best for last: the interiors! On this last point, the two sedans are equal in terms of ambient design; you and your passengers will benefit from a relaxing atmosphere, conducive to travel! The same goes for the materials and finish: very sound! So, what makes them different? The available room inside, especially behind the second row of seats. Indeed, while the trunk volume is about 374 litres for the 3 Series, it reaches some 530 litres in the 5 Series. This proves that the latter is clearly intended for longer distances than its smaller sibling! On the other hand, in terms of equipment, the two BMW sedans will simply offer you the best. Leather upholstery, electric glass roof, head-up display, quad-zone automatic climate control, or Bowers & Wilkins sound system: depending on the model and version, you will have everything you could wish for to travel comfortably, whatever your final destination!Conclusion: 3 Series for the feel and handling, and 5 Series for long distance and performance.
So here, everything about the BMW 3 Series vs BMW 5 Seriescomparison has been said! And as you can see from the title here, there is no better choice among both vehicles. It all depends on what you want! If you're looking for practicality, and to be comfortable in the city while having maneuverability on the road, opt for the 3 Series. For the ultimate in performance and efficiency, with more cargo space for on-road use, go for the 5 Series.
Still undecided? Come directly to BMW West-Island, your BMW dealer of choice in the Montreal sector of the same name!
We'll answer all your questions, and help you choose the BMW sedan that's right for you! You will also be able to learn about our promotions, as well as our current BMW leasing and financingprograms. See you soon!
Overview of this 3 Series vs. 5 Series comparison
2021 BMW 3 Series | 2021 BMW 5 Series |
---|---|
Typical BMW design in both cases, but… | |
...a more slender and tapered features | ...a more imposing design that makes a statement on the road |
High performance engines for all models, but… | |
...less power, but a choice of drive systems and gearboxes (auto or manual), and a smaller size for better handling. | ...mechanical nobility, superior efficiency and performance, but above all great driving comfort, because of its larger size. |
Ergonomic, luxurious, highly technological and tremendously comfortable interior in both cases. However... | |
...a smaller interior space, especially in the trunk. | ...more room for luggage to travel longer distances. |
Verdict | |
For those who value handling and driving experience above all else, with the performances to match. | Intended for those:
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