BMW 3 Series vs 5 Series

BMW 3 Series vs BMW 5 Series: Trim Levels and Corresponding Performance

Between the trim levels, the packages, and the available accessories, you can craft your BMW sedan to be anything you want. The BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series start with their “core” models before moving to far more performance-oriented options such as the M variants.

Here’s the performance chops of each BMW sedan if you stick with the standard powertrain:

• BMW 3 Series comes standard with a 2.0L 4-cylinder that generates 255 horsepower and 294 lb-ft of torque. Also standard is an 8-speed automatic transmission with Sport and Manual shift modes.
• BMW 5 Series comes standard with a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that generates 248 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque. Also standard is an 8-speed automatic transmission with Sport and Manual shift modes.

So, how does the performance change if you go to the most aggressive M variants? Take a look:

• BMW M3 peaks at 503 horsepower courtesy of a V6 engine. The 0-60 MPH dash can be completed in a mere 3.4 seconds.
• BMW M5 peaks at 600 horsepower courtesy of a V8 engine. The 0-60 MPH dash can be completed in a mere 3.2 seconds.

Both sedans also have trims focusing on fuel economy through the use of either hybrid or electric powertrains.