2024
See BMW 3 Series for saleBMW 3 Series
From AED 275,000
BMW 3 Series vs BMW 5 Series: Which Should You Buy in UAE?
A complete comparison of the BMW 3 Series VS BMW 5 Series — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across UAE.
2024
See BMW 5 Series for saleBMW 5 Series
From AED 275,000
BMW 3 Series VS BMW 5 Series: the verdict
The BMW 3 Series emerges as the more versatile and performance-oriented choice for drivers in the UAE, offering a broader range of engines and superior acceleration in its top trims, along with a more accessible starting price. However, those prioritizing ultimate cabin comfort, rear passenger space, and a larger trunk for long journeys will find the more executive BMW 5 Series to be the better option.
| #1 BMW 3 Series#1 | #2 BMW 5 Series#2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price Comparison | ||
| Starting at | 245,000 – 315,000 AED | 275,000 AED |
| Engine & Power | ||
| Engine | 1,998 – 2,998 cc · 4 – 6 cyl | 1,998 cc · 4 cyl |
| Horsepower (bhp) | 184 – 374 hp | 184 hp |
| Torque (Nm) | 300 – 500 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec) | 4.4 – 7.1 s | 7.9 s |
| Top Speed (Km/h) | 240 – 250 km/h | 235 km/h |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 Km) | 5.5 – 7.3 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
| Gears | 8 | 8 |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Drive Type | All Wheel Drive / Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Battery Size | — | 1.0 kWh |
| Measurements | ||
| L×W×H | 4.6 / 4.7 m × 1.8 / 1.8 m × 1.4 / 1.4 m | 5.0 m × 2.1 m × 1.5 m |
| Wheelbase (meters) | 2.8 / 2.9 m | 3.0 m |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1,450 – 1,670 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 SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBrembo BrakesBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterCollision DetectionCompassCool boxCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCrosswind AssistCruise 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 SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHDDHDMIHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerIntelligent KeyISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsLegroomLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresPaddle ShiftersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRoad Sign AssistRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeatbelt pretensionerSilver TrimSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchpadTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVentilated SeatsVoice 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 powerful 374 hp engine option and 4.4-second acceleration, is the clear winner for those seeking a thrilling driving experience.
2
Best for Value and Efficiency
Starting at 245,000 AED and offering a fuel economy as low as 5.5 L/100km, the BMW 3 Series provides a more budget-friendly entry into BMW ownership without compromising on dynamic performance.
3
Best for Executive Comfort & Space
The larger BMW 5 Series, boasting a 5.0m length and 3.0m wheelbase, offers superior rear legroom and a more spacious, refined cabin for passengers, making it ideal for business or family trips.
4
Best for Long-Distance Cruising
With its larger 70L fuel tank and more relaxed ride quality, the BMW 5 Series is better suited for extended journeys across the UAE, requiring fewer stops and offering enhanced comfort.
Pros & cons
BMW 3 Series
Pros
- Lower starting price (245,000 AED)
- Higher maximum horsepower (374 hp)
- Faster acceleration (4.4 seconds)
- More fuel efficient entry-level option (5.5 L/100km)
- Available with All-Wheel Drive
- Wider range of engine options (4-6 cylinders)
Cons
- Smaller trunk capacity (480 L)
- Less interior space for rear passengers
- Smaller fuel tank (60 L)
- Less commanding exterior presence
BMW 5 Series
Pros
- Larger trunk capacity (520 L)
- More spacious cabin (longer wheelbase, wider body)
- Larger fuel tank (70 L)
- More commanding road presence (longer overall length)
Cons
- Higher starting price (275,000 AED)
- Lower maximum horsepower (184 hp)
- Slower acceleration (7.9 seconds)
- Less fuel efficient (6.1 L/100km for its base model)
- No All-Wheel Drive option (in spec)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BMW 3 Series or 5 Series better for performance in the UAE?
The BMW 3 Series is definitively better for performance enthusiasts. While both offer a smooth ride, the 3 Series has engine options reaching up to 374 hp and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds, significantly outperforming the 5 Series' 184 hp and 7.9-second acceleration. For a more engaging and sporty drive, choose the 3 Series.
Which BMW, the 3 Series or 5 Series, offers more interior space and comfort?
The BMW 5 Series offers more interior space and comfort, especially for rear passengers. With a longer wheelbase of 3.0m and a total length of 5.0m, it provides a more expansive cabin and a larger 520L trunk compared to the 3 Series' 2.9m wheelbase, 4.7m length, and 480L trunk. If passenger comfort and cargo capacity are priorities, the 5 Series is the superior choice.
What is the price difference between the BMW 3 Series and 5 Series in the UAE?
The BMW 3 Series has a lower entry price, starting from 245,000 AED, while the BMW 5 Series begins at 275,000 AED. This makes the 3 Series more accessible for buyers looking for a premium sedan at a slightly lower investment. However, top-tier 3 Series trims can approach or exceed the 5 Series' starting price.
Which model, BMW 3 Series or 5 Series, is more fuel efficient?
The BMW 3 Series offers more fuel-efficient options, with its most economical trim achieving 5.5 L/100km. The BMW 5 Series, in the provided specifications, has a fuel economy of 6.1 L/100km. If minimizing fuel consumption is a key factor, certain configurations of the 3 Series will be more advantageous.
