The BMW 3 Series and 5 Series are the two best selling BMW cars in the US. Sales figures are extremely close, with the 5 Series occasionally outselling the 3 Series, but for the most part the cheaper 3 Series is the more popular sedan.
They’re both luxurious, 4-door family sedans from German automobile manufacturer BMW that can seat up to five passengers. Let’s take a more detailed look at the differences between the two BMW models.
Quick Summary
The BMW 3 series is a compact size family sedan, whereas the BMW 5 series is a midsize family sedan. That means the 5 Series has more interior space and cargo room, as well as bigger engine options. It also has a higher price tag, though more luxurious features come as standard – like leather seats.
Price
Just as you’d expect from the smaller BMW sedan, the 3 Series starts cheaper, costing $41,250 for the 2021 330i base model. For another $2000 you can get the xDrive 330i which features BMW’s patented all-wheel drive technology.
The larger BMW 5 Series starts at $54,200 for the 2021 base model 530i. There are also all-wheel drive 5 series, with the xDrive 530i starting at $56,500.
Both cars have a generous list of standard features including active cruise control, satellite navigation and Bluetooth. However, the optional extras are relatively more expensive on the 5 Series which can further widen the price gap between the two models.
Design
Both cars are distinctly BMW, with trademark dual kidney front grilles and two tailpipes at the back. BMW recently updated both models, with the 3 Series entering its seventh generation (G20) in 2018 and the 5 Series entering its seventh generation (G30) a year earlier in 2017. In 2021, the 5 series gets a light facelift which gives it a sharper look.
The smaller 3 Series looks relatively nimble and sporty, whereas the 5 Series has a slightly smarter, high-class appearance. The most noticeable difference is perhaps the taillight design, where the 3 Series goes with a slimmer, more squared off look compared to the more classic BMW taillight design seen in the 5 Series.
Interior
Since both cars were recently refreshed, the interiors are modern and uncluttered, with exquisite detailing and high-quality materials that you’d expect from a luxury car.
The additional leather and bigger panelling inside the cabin of the 5 Series gives it a slightly classier feel, but the difference in overall quality isn’t big.
However, the technology on the 5 Series is more impressive, featuring the likes of a bigger 10.25-inch central display (vs the 8.8-inch display of the 3 Series), 2 additional speakers, and Android Auto compatibility (which you don’t find on the 3 series).
Passenger and Cargo Space
Although both sedans can seat 5 passengers, those in the back of the 5 Series will appreciate the extra 1.3 inches of legroom.
Shoulder room is also significantly more generous in the 5 Series, with the driver and front row passenger getting an extra 2.7 inches while rear row passengers get an extra 1.3 inches.
Both cars have a 40/20/40 configuration rear row, but the 5 Series really shines when carrying 5 passengers thanks to its wider middle seat.
As for cargo, the 5 Series has one of the largest trunks in its class, measuring 18.7 cubic feet. However, the latest 3 Series has increased its trunk size by almost 4 cubic feet, going from 13 cubic feet to 16.9 cubic feet. That makes its trunk much bigger than comparable compact sedans like the Audi A4, and much more akin to a midsize sedan.
Both the 3 Series and 5 Series feature split-folding seats which gives you further space and flexibility for hauling larger objects.
Under The Hood
Engine options for the BMW 3 Series is limited to a 2.0-liter Turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine that delivers 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. That is unless you go with the ‘M Performance’ version of the 3 Series, the M340i, which houses a 3.0-liter turbo inline 6-cylinder engine.
By contrast, the 5 Series has a much wider range of engine options. The 530i features the same B48B20 engine found in the 330i, but the 530e hybrid pairs this engine with an electric motor and the 540i offers a 3.0-liter turbo I-6. The M Performance version of the 5 Series, the M550i, houses a beastly 4.4-liter V-8.
For 2021, BMW have also added a 48v hybrid system to the 540i which provides a small boost to its performance.
Top speed and acceleration depend on the engine, but given the same engine (as is the case with the 330i and 530i) the lighter 330i is slightly faster, going from 0-60mph in 5.6 seconds, 0.3 seconds quicker than the 530i.
Both vehicles pair their engines with a 8-speed Automatic transmission with automatic Sport and Manual shift modes.
Drive Experience
BMW has built their reputation of their excellent driving dynamics, and it is difficult to think of any sedan that is more fun to drive than either of these BMWs. Transmission feels very responsive, suspension is comfortable (and sufficiently stiff when thrown into sport mode) while the turning radius is nice and tight.
Thanks to its smaller body, the 3 Series is slightly more agile and better at handling corners, but the 5 Series also delivers a thrilling experience on the road.
Verdict
Both the BMW 3 Series and 5 Series are excellent sedans in their own right.
The 3 Series is more affordable, and its smaller chassis makes it more agile and convenient to drive on narrow city streets.
On the other hand, paying more for the 5 Series gives you extra room inside and more presence on the road. It also has more luxuries as standard which is another point to factor into your purchase decision.
We highly recommend visiting your BMW dealership and booking a test drive. Seeing and driving these cars in person can really help you make a decision if you are still on the fence.
Comparison Table
| 2021 BMW 3 Series Sedan | 2021 BMW 5 Series Sedan | |
|---|---|---|
| Trim | ||
| Price | $41250 | $54200 |
| Performance | ||
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas |
| Horsepower | 255 hp @ 5000 rpm | 248 hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft @ 1550 rpm | 258 lb-ft @ 1450 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Handling | ||
| Steering Type | Rack-Pinion | Rack-Pinion |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-Link | Multi-Link |
| Rear Wheel Size | P225/45HR18 | P245/45HR18 |
| Front Suspension | Strut | Double Wishbone |
| Front Wheel Size | P225/45HR18 | P245/45HR18 |
| Turning Diameter (ft.) | 37.4 | 39.4 |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| MPG/MPGe - Hwy | 36 | 33 |
| MPG/MPGe - City | 26 | 25 |
| MPG/MPGe - Combined | 30 | 28 |
| Gas Tank Size (gallons) | 15.6 | 18.0 |
| Cruising Range - Hwy (miles) | 561.6 | 594.0 |
| Size and Weight | ||
| Height (in.) | 56.8 | 58.2 |
| Length (in.) | 185.7 | 195.8 |
| Weight (lbs) | 3582 | 3765 |
| Max Width (in.) | 71.9 | 73.5 |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 112.2 | 117.1 |
| Interior Dimensions | ||
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Trunk Volume (cu. ft.) | 17.0 | 14.0 |
| Front Seat Leg Room (in.) | 42.0 | 41.4 |
| Front Seat Head Room (in.) | 38.7 | 38.8 |
| Front Seat Shoulder Room (in.) | 56.0 | 58.7 |
| Rear Seat Leg room (in.) | 35.2 | 36.5 |
| Rear Seat Head Room (in.) | 37.6 | 37.5 |
| Rear Seat Shoulder Room (in.) | 54.6 | 55.9 |
| Infotainment Features | ||
| HD Radio | Standard | Standard |
| MP3 Player | Standard | Standard |
| WiFi Hotspot | Optional | Standard |
| Satellite Radio | Standard | Standard |
| Bluetooth Connection | Standard | Standard |
| Entertainment System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Premium Sound System | Optional | Optional |
| Auxiliary Audio Input | Standard | Standard |
| Smart Device Integration | Standard | Standard |
| Hard Disk Drive Media Storage | Optional | Standard |
| Interior Trim | ||
| Cloth Seats | Standard | Standard |
| Vinyl Seats | Standard | Standard |
| Leather Seats | Standard | Standard |
| Premium Synthetic Seats | Standard | Standard |
| Bucket Seats | Standard | Standard |
| Sun/Moonroof | Standard | Standard |
| Leather Steering Wheel | Standard | Standard |
| Woodgrain Interior Trim | Not Available | Not Available |
| Comfort Features | ||
| A/C | Standard | Standard |
| Rear A/C | Standard | Not Available |
| Telematics | Standard | Standard |
| Seat Memory | Standard | Standard |
| Seat-Massage | Not Available | Optional |
| Keyless Entry | Standard | Standard |
| Keyless Start | Standard | Standard |
| Cruise Control | Standard | Standard |
| Multi-Zone A/C | Standard | Standard |
| Power Liftgate | Not Available | Not Available |
| Climate Control | Standard | Standard |
| Head-Up Display | Optional | Optional |
| Power Mirror(s) | Standard | Standard |
| Automatic Parking | Optional | Optional |
| Navigation System | Standard | Standard |
| Power Driver Seat | Standard | Standard |
| Cooled Rear Seat(s) | Not Available | Not Available |
| Hands-Free Liftgate | Optional | Not Available |
| Heated Rear Seat(s) | Optional | Optional |
| Remote Engine Start | Optional | Optional |
| Cooled Front Seat(s) | Not Available | Optional |
| Heated Front Seat(s) | Optional | Optional |
| Power Passenger Seat | Standard | Standard |
| Remote Trunk Release | Optional | Not Available |
| Heated Steering Wheel | Optional | Optional |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Optional | Optional |
| Navigation from Telematics | Not Available | Not Available |
| Universal Garage Door Opener | Standard | Standard |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Standard | Standard |
| Safety Features | ||
| ABS | Standard | Standard |
| Brake Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Night Vision | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Parking Aid | Optional | Standard |
| Traction Control | Standard | Standard |
| Stability Control | Standard | Standard |
| Blind Spot Monitor | Optional | Standard |
| Cross-Traffic Alert | Not Available | Not Available |
| Lane Keeping Assist | Optional | Standard |
| Tire Pressure Monitor | Standard | Standard |
| Lane Departure Warning | Standard | Standard |
| Airbags | ||
| Knee Air Bag | Not Available | Not Available |
| Driver Air Bag | Standard | Standard |
| Seatbelt Air Bag | Not Available | Not Available |
| Passenger Air Bag | Standard | Standard |
| Rear Head Air Bag | Standard | Standard |
| Rear Side Air Bag | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Head Air Bag | Standard | Standard |
| Front Side Air Bag | Standard | Standard |
| Warranty | ||
| Basic | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles |
| Corrosion | 12 Years / Unlimited Miles | 12 Years / Unlimited Miles |
| Drivetrain | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles |
| Maintenance | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 Years / Unlimited Miles | 4 Years / Unlimited Miles |