BMW 5 Series G30 vs BMW M3 G80
BMW 5 Series
G30 · 2016 – 2023
The seventh-generation 5 Series (G30), on the CLAR platform.
BMW M3
G80 · 2021 – 2026
The current M3 (G80), BMW’s high-performance saloon on the CLAR platform.
BMW 5 Series
Pick the 5 Series for a benchmark balance of comfort and handling, a hushed ride and a big boot in a premium executive sedan.
BMW M3
Pick the G80 for the first M3 with optional M xDrive and a manual base variant — S58 pace with everyday saloon practicality.
Performance
B48 520i · Petrol vs M3 Competition · Petrol
| BMW 5 Series | BMW M3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
184 hp
|
510 hp
Winner
|
| Torque |
290 Nm
|
650 Nm
Winner
|
| 0–100 km/h |
7,8 s
|
3,9 s
Winner
|
| Top speed |
235 km/h
|
250 km/h
Winner
|
| Power-to-weight |
119,1 hp/t
|
286,5 hp/t
Winner
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
140 g/km
Winner
|
230 g/km
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
6,2 L/100km
Winner
|
10,5 L/100km
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW 5 Series | BMW M3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
530 L
Winner
|
480 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
—
|
1.200 L
|
| Wheelbase |
2,98 m
Winner
|
2,86 m
|
| Length |
4,94 m
|
4,79 m
|
| Ground clearance |
14,4 cm
|
12,0 cm
|
| Turning circle |
12,0 m
Winner
|
12,2 m
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
2.000 kg
Winner
|
0 kg
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW 5 Series | BMW M3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | CLAR (rear-wheel-drive base) | CLAR (G80, rear-wheel drive or xDrive) |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive · All-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive · All-wheel drive |
| Engine family | B48 2.0 · B58 3.0 · B47/B57 diesel · 530e PHEV | S58 3.0 twin-turbo petrol |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Euro standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | Euro 6d |
| LEZ access | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) |
Reliability & watch-outs
Known issues
- Transfer case (xDrive) needs maintenance
- Air suspension (if fitted)
- EGR on diesels
- Cooling-system plastics and electric water pump
- Oil-cooler or seal sweating (early cars)
- Carbon buildup on intake valves (direct injection)
Pros
- Refined, quiet ride
- Strong, efficient engines
- High-grade interior
- Rear-wheel drive retains classic M balance
- xDrive versions are quicker and more secure in poor grip
- Usable rear seats and a 480 L boot for a performance saloon
Cons
- Firm ride on M Sport (run-flat)
- Pricey options
- Big and heavy (~1,705–1,940 kg)
- Firm ride, especially in stiffer settings
Driving experience
BMW 5 Series
Composed, refined and supremely effortless. Steering is precise and well-weighted, body control excellent, and the G30 blends limousine comfort with genuine driver involvement. sDrive keeps the classic rear-drive balance and composure; xDrive adds all-weather confidence without dulling the nose. Adaptive dampers and optional air suspension span cushioned to firmly controlled. The B48/B58 petrols are smooth and eager, the B47/B57 diesels pull strongly and stay hushed, and the 530e/545e plug-ins glide on electric power. The ZF 8-speed is quick, seamless and always in the right gear. Overall a polished executive saloon that turns a long drive into a calm, effortless one.
BMW M3
Powerful, refined and highly capable. Steering is precise, body control is excellent and the car feels planted and engaging. Rear-drive versions retain classic M balance and playfulness; xDrive versions are more neutral, secure and quicker off the line. Adaptive M suspension offers a wide range between firm and acceptable comfort. The S58 is strong, free-revving and characterful with excellent mid-range and high-rev performance. The manual (base) is engaging; the ZF 8-speed (Competition) is quick and smooth. Overall a highly versatile high-performance saloon that balances dynamics with everyday usability better than many predecessors.
Belgian taxes & LEZ
For sale at dealers
BMW 5 Series
0 for saleNo listings at the moment
