Ultimate driving machine

[Ohrid]

...the 3-series, is regarded as one of the sweetest handler of the compact market, however the 5-series is the benchmark for any car what so ever. articles/journalist praise it, as the best steering and driving pleasure to the max.
The persuasive journalism and imense media and promotion, from both BMW and even competitors admit the excellence in the 5-series execution, just makes u want to own one..and see what the fuss is all about.
My question is, has anyone been at both ends, and driven a 5 and a 3 series? and if so, felt any difference in the way each of the cars' keeps their posure and handles?
i want to excuse myself in advance, for all the dumb questions and remarks i have posted, sorry guys. wat can i say, other than i am still new

[ronskal]

I'm also very interested in this kind of comparison, since I plan in the future to buy either a 2000 or so year model 3 or 5 series.

[pmolfese]

I'm a fan of the 3 series just because it's a bit smaller than the 5 series. Best way to describe it is to tell you to go down to your local BMW dealer and ask to drive both. The 5 series certainly has more engine options and in something like the 540, a heck of a lot more noticeable power than the 3 series.

[e55]

I own a 2000 540 and a '99 328. My 540 handles better and is a lot of fun to drive; however, it has the sports package, and the 328i does not - although I am in the process of moding it and will soon have the sway bars and tuned springs etc. to see how much better it feels. I do love the 540 - but have only driven the 328 in the 3 series, so I can't speak for M3's or the 330's for example, or for that matter for any sport-packaged 3 series.

[peterkulesza]

test drove the new 5. very sweet, but NOT as nimble as my car. i'd go for a 3.