BMW 3 Series vs BMW 5 Series

Despite being smaller, the BMW 3 Series is very practical when it comes to passenger space. The rear seat is roomy with plenty of leg space even for taller people. The 480-litre boot is similar to those offered by Mercedes C-Class and Audi A3. There is generous space for all your luggage.

The BMW 3 Series has a number of four and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines- ranging from 3.0-litre M3 to the 318i petrol. This line-up consists of tried and proved 190hp 2.0-litre diesel that can do does 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds, return 67.3mpg and emit 111g/km CO2. The gearbox in 3 series is a choice of six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic.

The 3 Series is agile, compact and is powered with responsive engines. The rear-drive set-up especially makes cornering a delight.

The BMW 5 Series offers a bit more space- it is a luxurious cruiser. There is a lot of legroom in that back-seats and a good amount of headroom as well. The front seats are similarly roomy and easily comfortable. This car, compared to the old model is more stretched and more practical with a 530-litre boot and a range of storage spaces added.

Meanwhile, the 5 Series runs with a smaller range of diesel and petrol engines; the most well-known being the 190hp 2.0-litre diesel. Despite having to transport a heavier car- the engine whose power is similar to the 3 series 2-litre diesel engine- it is just as fast if not a bit more economical. This line-up has a plug-in hybrid engine badged 530ie Performance that can return 142mpg and emissions of 46g/CO2. Gearboxes are the same as 3 series.

While, the 5 Series rivals on most performance measures- the rear-wheel drive is lighter and has a more sophisticated suspension system- powered with equally responsive engines. It is unrivalled in its class.