2021 BMW 3 Series vs. 2021 BMW 5 Series

Drivers who compare BMW models always end up winning in the end, and it’s safe to say that the 2021 BMW 3 Series and the 2021 BMW 5 Series are both fantastic options for St Paul-area performance enthusiasts. But if you can only bring one model home with you, which option should you choose? Our 2021 BMW 3 Series vs. 5 Series comparison shows that the 3 Series is more affordable and more powerful as standard, but the 5 Series offers more standard luxury and a more exciting array of powertrain upgrades.

3 Series vs. 5 Series: BMW Sedan Price Comparison

The BMW 3 Series gives you six trim levels to choose from, while the BMW 5 Series offers seven. St Paul and Minneapolis drivers shouldn’t be surprised to learn that the new 3 Series is more affordable than its larger sibling:

• BMW 330i — starting at $41,250 MSRP
• BMW 330i xDrive — starting at $43,250 MSRP
• BMW 330e — starting at $44,550 MSRP
• BMW 330e xDrive — starting at $46,550 MSRP
• BMW M340i — starting at $54,700 MSRP
• BMW M340i xDrive — starting at $56,700 MSRP

The 2021 BMW 5 Series price list starts almost exactly where the 2021 BMW 3 Series price list ends! Keep the following options in mind when you’re trying to find the perfect monthly payment:

• BMW 530i — starting at $54,200 MSRP
• BMW 530i xDrive — starting at $56,500 MSRP
• BMW 530e — starting at $57,200 MSRP
• BMW 530e xDrive — starting at $59,500 MSRP
• BMW 540i — starting at $59,450 MSRP
• BMW 540i xDrive — starting at $61,750 MSRP
• BMW M550i xDrive — starting at $76,800 MSRP

Looking for a better BMW sedan price? We offer exciting lease offers on the 3 Series and the 5 Series that you’ll definitely want to consider.

3 Series vs. 5 Series: BMW Sedan Performance Comparison

Both BMW sedans offer a range of engine and powertrain options for you to consider, and each offers a plug-in hybrid configuration for those who make efficiency a top priority. Compare the BMW 3 Series vs. 5 Series across the lineup:

• The 3 Series actually offers more power in its standard configuration. You’ll enjoy 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, compared to 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque in the base-level 5 Series.
• The same can be said for each model’s plug-in hybrid trims. Both the 330e and the 530e offer 288 hp. However, the 330e provides 310 lb-ft of torque, compared to 257 lb-ft of torque in the 530e. 
• The BMW 540i offers 335 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. There isn’t an equivalent option in the 3 Series lineup.
• The range-topping BMW M540i xDrive provides a lot more power than the BMW M340i. Choose the 5 Series if you want to be able to access up to 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. The 3 Series only offers up to 382 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque.

Eager to learn more? Compare the BMW 5 Series vs. Audi A6 to find out how it fares against an in-class competitor.

3 Series vs. 5 Series: BMW Sedan Interior Features

Any driver comparing the BMW 3 Series vs. 5 Series will find that both models have a lot to offer, but the new 5 Series gives you a little bit more to love! Given the difference in pricing, Richfield-area drivers shouldn’t be surprised by the following differences in interior quality. 

The agile, compact BMW 3 Series comes standard with each of the following:

• SensaTec upholstery
• 14-way power front seats
• iDrive 6.0 system
• Navigation
• Bluetooth®
• Two USB ports

The 5 Series is more spacious, and it also provides a little bit more luxury as standard:

• SensaTec upholstery
• 16-way power front sport seats
• Two-way power side bolsters
• iDrive 7.0 system
• Navigation
• Bluetooth®
• Two USB ports
• 8 freely programmable bookmarks
• 32 GB of multimedia storage

Take the Next Steps with Motorwerks BMW!

If you like what you’ve seen in this BMW sedan matchup, don’t wait to check out your favorite model at Motorwerks BMW! We’ve made it easy to shop and buy online, and we’re ready to answer any and all of your questions today.