2024
See BMW 3 Series for saleBMW 3 Series
From SAR 270,250
BMW 3 Series vs BMW 5 Series: Which Should You Buy in KSA?
A complete comparison of the BMW 3 Series VS BMW 5 Series — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across KSA.
2024
See BMW 5 Series for saleBMW 5 Series
From SAR 290,000
BMW 3 Series VS BMW 5 Series: the verdict
The BMW 3 Series emerges as the overall winner for drivers prioritizing a more engaging experience and better value. Its superior acceleration and fuel efficiency make it a compelling choice for daily driving and spirited excursions. However, the BMW 5 Series offers unmatched cabin space and trunk capacity, making it ideal for those seeking executive comfort and practicality.
| #1 BMW 3 Series#1 | #2 BMW 5 Series#2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price Comparison | ||
| Starting at | 230,000 – 270,250 SAR | 290,000 SAR |
| Engine & Power | ||
| Engine | 1,998 cc · 4 cyl | 1,998 cc · 4 cyl |
| Horsepower (bhp) | 184 – 258 hp | 184 hp |
| Torque (Nm) | 300 – 400 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec) | 5.8 – 7.1 s | 7.9 s |
| Top Speed (Km/h) | 240 – 250 km/h | 235 km/h |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 Km) | 5.5 – 5.8 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
| Gears | 8 | 8 |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Drive Type | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Battery Size | — | 1.0 kWh |
| Measurements | ||
| L×W×H | 4.7 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m | 5.0 m × 2.1 m × 1.5 m |
| Wheelbase (meters) | 2.9 m | 3.0 m |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1,450 – 1,545 kg | 1,670 kg |
| Trunk Capacity (liters) | 480 L | 520 L |
| Overview | ||
| Body Style | Sedan | Sedan |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Features | ||
| Key features | 12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringAdaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCompassCool boxCornering LightsCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHDDHDMIHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsLegroomLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeatbelt pretensionerSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim | 360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive SteeringAirbagsAluminum WheelsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBluetoothBody Colored Bumper - Front and RearBody Colored MirrorsCargo Area LightCD PlayerCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCollision DetectionCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Handles - Body ColoredDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDynamic Damper ControlDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsFire ExtinguisherFog Lamps - Front OnlyFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFrameless DoorsFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHDMIHeadlight WashersInternet ConnectivityKeyless EntryLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsMP3Multi-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPush Button StartRadioRear AC VentsSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSensorSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTiptronic GearsTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWireless Headphones |
Which one should you buy?
1
Best for Driving Enthusiasts
The BMW 3 Series, with its quicker 0-100 km/h time of 5.8 seconds and lighter kerb weight, delivers a more agile and performance-oriented drive.
2
Best for Executive Comfort & Space
For those prioritizing passenger comfort and cargo, the BMW 5 Series excels with its larger dimensions, longer wheelbase, and a generous 520 L trunk capacity.
3
Best for Urban Efficiency
The BMW 3 Series is the more economical choice for city driving, offering a superior fuel economy of 5.5 L/100km compared to the 5 Series' 6.1 L/100km.
4
Best Value for Money
Starting at 230,000 SAR, the BMW 3 Series provides premium BMW ownership at a significantly more accessible price point than the 5 Series.
Pros & cons
BMW 3 Series
Pros
- More affordable starting price (230,000 SAR)
- Superior acceleration (as low as 5.8s)
- Better fuel efficiency (5.5 L/100km)
- More agile due to lighter kerb weight (1,450 kg)
- Higher available horsepower (up to 258 hp)
Cons
- Smaller trunk space (480 L)
- Less interior room for rear passengers
- Smaller fuel tank capacity (60 L)
- Less executive road presence than the 5 Series
BMW 5 Series
Pros
- More spacious cabin and longer wheelbase (3.0m)
- Larger trunk capacity (520 L)
- Higher fuel tank capacity (70 L)
- More commanding road presence (larger dimensions)
Cons
- Higher starting price (290,000 SAR)
- Slower acceleration (7.9s)
- Less fuel-efficient (6.1 L/100km)
- Heavier kerb weight (1,670 kg) impacting agility
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BMW 3 Series or 5 Series better for daily commuting in KSA?
The BMW 3 Series is generally better for daily commuting due to its superior fuel economy of 5.5 L/100km and more compact dimensions, making it easier to maneuver and park in urban environments. While both offer comfort, the 3 Series provides a more agile and efficient ride for the daily grind.
Which BMW sedan offers more space, the 3 Series or 5 Series?
The BMW 5 Series offers significantly more space than the 3 Series. With a longer wheelbase, greater overall length, and a larger 520 L trunk capacity, it provides a more comfortable experience for passengers and more room for luggage. Choose the 5 Series if space is a top priority.
What is the price difference between the BMW 3 Series and 5 Series in Saudi Arabia?
There is a notable price difference, with the BMW 3 Series starting from 230,000 SAR, while the BMW 5 Series starts at 290,000 SAR. The 3 Series offers a more accessible entry point into BMW's sedan lineup, providing excellent value for its performance and features.
Which BMW sedan is more powerful, the 3 Series or 5 Series?
The BMW 3 Series offers higher available power options, reaching up to 258 hp and 400 Nm of torque in its top trims, compared to the 5 Series' 184 hp and 290 Nm. For raw performance and quicker acceleration, the 3 Series is the more potent choice.
Is the BMW 3 Series more fuel-efficient than the 5 Series?
Yes, the BMW 3 Series is more fuel-efficient, achieving an impressive 5.5 L/100km. The BMW 5 Series, being larger and heavier, has a fuel economy of 6.1 L/100km. If fuel consumption is a primary concern, the 3 Series is the better option.
