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BMW Touring Comparo: 3 Series vs 5 Series. Which is best?

BMW 320i Touring vs 520i Touring 10 photos
Photo: Auto Motor und Sport
BMW 320i Touring vs 520i TouringBMW 320i Touring vs 520i TouringBMW 320i Touring vs 520i TouringBMW 320i Touring vs 520i TouringBMW 320i Touring vs 520i TouringBMW 320i Touring vs 520i TouringBMW 320i Touring vs 520i TouringBMW 320i Touring vs 520i TouringBMW 320i Touring vs 520i Touring
Downsizing seems to be on everyone's mind today. That's why the guys from Auto Motor und Sport decided to see wether it's better to get a bigger 5 Series Touring or a smaller 3 Series model when they're equipped with the same engine.
The cars they tested were both powered by the same N20 2-liter turbocharged petrol engine with 184 HP and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque. So the comparison will have to be based on different aspects.

Price-wise, the 5 Series is more expensive than the 3er by almost €8,000 ($10,500) and that has to be justified by other things than the numbers on the tailgate. Standard options include (for both cars) the automatic tailgate and split folding seats. The 520i Touring has a couple more features but they don't cover such a big price difference (larger wheels, air suspension with self-leveling systems for the rear-axle).

Furthermore, the 5er is a bit longer than it's brother, nearly 16 cm (6 inches) longer to be precise. That translates into some extra leg room in the back but it's not significant.

Other than that, the 520i is a bit more airy, quieter and more comfortable. On the other hand, the 320i is more agile and sporty whilst also delivering more performance for the buck. That's only understandable as the smaller car is also lighter (by 200 kg/440 lb) and lower on the ground.

Bottom line, the 5 Series is the more comfortable car for extra long rides but the 3er is the better BMW due to its sportive feel and agile steering. The 5er compensates for the higher price tag with a couple of extra amenities so you're not just throwing money out the window on it.

Via: AutoMotorundSport.de
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