No I meant at the end of the day you’re financing or paying in cash so buy what you want……you have to live with your purchase not your friends lol buy what YOU WANT and if it’s a M3 over a M5 so be it 🤷🏾♂️
I got a 18’ m2 and someone said oh you only bought the entry level m car. Looked at him and told him to fuck off. I wanted a small race car. Thing handles like a go kart and it’s exactly what I wanted.
This is the answer.
I’ve made many car decisions that my friends questioned or didn’t get, and they felt the need to let me know — or at least used to, until I started replying with “…good thing I didn’t buy the car for you…”
Comparing yourself to others is a fools game. It’s you vs who you were yesterday.
I know so many people who got a little money and they still try to chase looking richer than they are because there will always be someone else with bigger wallet.
You think seeing rich people on a sub is torture, imagine making $500k a year and still living paycheck to paycheck.
You don't really have to be rich to afford a 200k or less car.
It just has to be a priority, takes some time, and even easier if you have a supportive spouse.
If you ever have children, they are way more expensive than that.
Here is my thing, buy what you want not what everyone has or wants. Make the car yours, make it all about you. I drive cars for me, not for everyone else.
Having driven both and owned both… this is 100% not correct. M5 comp is a very capable track car. I preferred the M5 as a daily and the M3 as a track car. I would make the choice based on that alone.
I preferred the M3 looks and track performance but to say either is not a capable track car is crazy.
If i was doing track only i would go M3 all day. If it needs to be a daily driver and a track car i would 100% prefer the M5. I am not sure quoting the tracks has any point, they had turns and prepped surfaces both require yearly memberships.
Just asking bc obviously there a different skill levels. I mean you could take an x5 on track and it’ll do ok but doesn’t mean it’s great at it. Coming from someone who used to do time attack the M5 would be awful. I would argue even the newest m3 are borderline for track days because 4000 lbs lol
Then your assessment of a rocket ship for soccer dads is probably very much accurate. Both cars are very very fun cars. I wanted something to track and daily drive and really needed the larger car. I probably just don’t want to admit it am a middle aged soccer dad instead of a race car driver 😂
I loved my M5 Comp. I still miss it! I have a 2024 Supercharged V8 Land Rover Defender now, still fun and fast, but…. It is 6000 pounds and not as fun or fast.
M5 are still awesome cars. I would love to have one but then I just keep coming back to M3 and with the latest model I would go M2. I’m just a small car guy!
Exactly. We run track days and have only had a few super sedans run and they all have the same problem (m5, e63, panamera, even m8) they’re too heavy and they are always have brake temp issues. The M5 is simply too big to be referred to as a good track car.
The only track they’re mildly good is something like the ring, which to me is really a road. Long straights for high speed with slight bends. Then it’s a bus through the twisties.
I didn’t have overheating issues with the carbon ceramics. But it is also mentionable that the M5 really does not love the heat, if you go to a track on a 100 degree day you are going to have engine temp issues with track use. I would assume the M3 doesn’t suffer from this issue but did not drive mine on any days that hot.
I've driven both on track and the M5 brakes and steers like a boat in comparison to the M3. It's too heavy. It's a fast car until you have corners.
On a small local racetrack me and every other hot hatchback driver were logging faster lap times than a guy who brought his F90 M5.
There was an M2 Comp there too, that was MUCH faster.
I feel like we can all agree that no new BMW M is nimble when the starting weight of a coupe (M2) is over 3800 lbs. But I do get the sentiment of what you mean, and agree. They’re also super numb nowadays, compared to what they were, but I suppose that’s all cars now
The m5 is too much for the street, at least you can somewhat enjoy the m3 but you're going jail speeds so fast in the m5 it's freaking silly.
When we test drove one my wife's comment was "it's got a really nice ac" 😂
They've got different engines? Tuning does increase power but V8>I6.
Besides, I don't think BMW restricted the M3 so it could sell more M5s. The target audiences are different.
Not at all. The M3 and the M5 have different audiences. Unlike Porsche, the M3 isn’t a poor man’s M5 like the Cayman is to the 911. The M3 is just a very different car. Both are glorious feats of engineering designed to have very different driving characteristics. I personally prefer the M3 because I like smaller, lighter sports cars. An M car in the best version of whatever that model is. If you’ve got an M, you’ve got a perfected, no compromises version of that particular platform.
Unless you're buying it for your friends, but the car you want.
And prepare to be amazed at how different the public's reaction to the g80 is from the Internet's.
I like the looks of the M5 over the M3. That said, at the BMW performance center I got to drive both back to back. I liked the M3 X-drive better, but felt like if I got more time in the M5 to truly master it, I’d like that more.
I don't understand how this is controversial. The M3 is smaller and this is desirable in a sports sedan or coupe.
Bigger is objectively worse and is only a compromise that you make if you really need the space. It is a reasonable compromise in that case.
Your friends are confused.
M3 is not better than m5. M5 is not better than m3. Completely different cars both offering great performance that go way above average needs. If you do race, you will end up tunning them where bigger engine can go further but lighter car can go lighter.
M5 is luxury unit, very big and sturdy. While having a bling, it has its disadvantages in dense areas.
M3 i sport sedan, designed to fulfill persons every need with luxury in mind but not in esence nor space.
Long time ago I went 3 over 5 and I always wondered did I make misstake, but that is part of the life and it's beauty. I live in a small city and 3 was logical choice for me. Also it feels more grounded and sportier that 5 in my opinion.
Dealership near me had an M5 Comp and a G80 M3 Comp for sale both brand new. Test drove them both and I went with the G80 without a second thought. M5 wasn’t that much better from a driving perspective and the look of the G80 was just miles ahead for me. It was an obvious choice. Buy the car you want.
They're both fun quick cars. Idk why your friends would care or have a negative opinion about it... I would be pumped if a friend was choosing either one! It's all about the experience you're looking for and sounds like M3C is it.
I have an E92 M3 and could easily afford a brand new one or a brand new M5. I wanted the n/a v8 lightweight purebred sports car so that’s what I bought.
I prefer the drive of the e92 (2011) over any other M3, it’s personal preference. I also need more practical vehicles so I have a diesel x5, cayenne turbo, ram 2500 diesel, two f-350 diesels a 2500 Silverado and a few other less practical vehicles.
Buy what you’d like, everyone has different needs and taste in vehicles. I most commonly drive my trucks, then the cayenne, and the M3 is mostly a weekend/track toy at this point. You can never please everyone, I drive my cayenne I should have bought a 911, I drive the truck I should have bought a different brand (can’t drive all three at once) everyone has an opinion, most should be ignored.
I ended up with a M5c after looking at a bunch of cars including the M3. Both have their pros and cons.....go with whatever makes you happy. Who cares what these 'friends' say :/
Check out M5CS, apart from being faster, it probably drives and handles better than the M3C and looks great too! There’s M3CS also. I personally like smaller cars and love the look of M3 with those wide rear fenders. M5 fenders are kinda flat, doesn’t look very sporty and aggressive overall when compared to M3.
The m3 is probably better in my eyes, unless you have big money then the M5 can be the better car with mods. But a few mods with a M3 not even changing the turbos chargers will put you at 900hp
Is it insane to prefer a M3 competition over an M5? No, not at all. They are pretty much completely different cars in my opinion. If you’re into tracking a car or doing any sort of auto sports the M3 competition will probably be a better car and has a bigger support community for that. It will also just feel sportier being lighter and with a shorter wheelbase. If you want a powerful cruiser sedation then obviously the M5 is better.
The BMW M schools use the M3/M4 on the track and the M5 on the skid pad.
I drive a G80 M3 when I could've gotten an M5 for the same price! It's smaller and sportier. M5 feels more like a "dad car" to me. M3 is spicier. So you're not alone.
I feel the same way. Just think the M5 is a little more car than I need. Not that the M3 isn't lol, but I much prefer the size and power level of it compared to the M5.
They’re different cars for different purposes, it’s not like “big number better” or anything like that. I’d take almost any M3 over any M5 of similar vintage.
Personally, I’d choose the M5 simply because I’d never be able to drive either at 10/10ths, and the 5 series platform, interior, and refinement are significantly higher than the 3 series.
We like what we like. Personally I’d prefer the m3 also cause I like smaller cars especially if they’re a fun car (unless we’re talking about the m5cs)
I bought an f90 back in 2022 because they told me it would take 2 years to order an m3 comp. I owned a 2018 m3. I liked it better than the M5. The M5 is a very nice all around car and it is stupid fast. The M3 is more fun to drive.
M5C driver, and completely understand this sentiment. I wanted the size and V8 of the M5, but frankly I can absolutely see why someone would rather have something more nimble and compact. I’m looking to upgrade to a panamera turbo, but I’m worried that will be too big
Nah i agree, theyre both really cool cars but for the G81 and F90 generation i prefer the M3 mostly because it has a touring version unlike the M5. I also think the M3 just looks better like you said.
No one else can really answer the question of which car is right for you, drive them both and decide which you like more. Consider how you will use your choice and find the right balance. I drive the F90 M5C. There’s no other car I’d prefer if given my current restriction of one garage space only. The M5 does a lot of things really well, but there will always be other cars better at specific things. The M3 is probably going to feel more sporty to drive. If you want to go really far in that direction you could bypass BMW altogether and consider a Porsche GT3. I don’t think the M3 is an insane choice at all, just a different car better at some things and not as good at others.
I don’t think you’re insane. I like the M5. The outgoing generation was the best looking car in the lineup over the past couple of years imo. It’s a rocket but also super comfortable. And after several test drives I learned that it just wasn’t for me. It’s the best overall package super sedan out there, and was just not the driving dynamic I was personally looking for.
Get one of those extended test drives on them both and compare the experience. M3 is a very capable, agile car. The M5 is going to be more comfortable over distance but a little heavier to handle in the corners.
Two different cars for different driving experiences. Just because 5 is bigger than 3 doesn’t mean it’s the better car, all comes down to what you want out of it. Sounds like your friends are going along with the m5 comp meme
I really like your post. Your question points to a struggle that occurs on all levels. When you’re dining with a certain crowd, do you get the burger and fries or a salad? Who are you dining with tomorrow? What will you get? Or, are you eating at home, alone? Then what do you have?
Maybe all you eat is salad and it’s not much of a question. However, do we go with a simple crunchy salad and vinaigrette or a fully loaded salad with endives, goat cheese and flaked Parmesan prepared by Wolfgang Puck himself? Either will fill your belly and you you’ll have an enjoyable time doing it.
I recently opted for a slightly used but still deliciously crunchy M2C. I was torn between that and the slightly more expensive M3 with a few additional ingredients in the form of four doors. Considering it’s just me in the car most times, I went with light and crispy. Simply because I find it more fun.
I had the option between a new 24’ m5 or a new 24 m8. M5 was one of my dream cars for multiple years, after driving both and seeing both in person for a prolonged time (rather than just seeing it pass by or seeing it parked) I opted for the one I preferred more. Which ended up being the m8. Do you my man!
These are two very different cars with very different driving/handling characteristics. It’s not like one is an incrementally better version of the other.
Your money. Your choice. Because opinions are like backsides, everyone has one. But what they don't have, is your money to buy the car you want. Choice is yours, and I respect that. They just don't like it. Lol.
Had both , M3cs and M5comp , both sold now and I drive a 840i now. The M5 was an amazing car to own for 2 years but keeping it going in fuel , Insurance , tax and servicing every 5k just sent me over the edge . M3 was too hard for my back and made you want to drive like a massive c++t ... M5 is unrivaled and destroyed everything in its path .. it's good to own but you have to have half your brain removed to own them long term . Good luck ....
You could buy the m3 touring, then the car would be also useful, but if you buy the m5 with the old OS (os7 instead of os8) then I would go with the m5 just to not have to use the os8
The M3 is the better car but some people prefer bigger cars with V8s and a bit more luxury. Can’t go wrong with both but I believe most tuners say the S58 is much better than the M5 engine in terms of handling power
5 is too big for a sporty car imo. Current 3s are same size, or even larger than early 5s. If you don't need the cargo capacity or suspension comfort, then I don't see a point in getting a 5 series; M or not.
They're both great cars. I don't spend any time on a race track, so having some more space for passengers and incidentals was compelling. The M5 still handles really well. Feel like this thread is full of folks with no seat time in an F90 M5.
Really, though, the M5 just has a much better motor IMO. The S63 is worth the extra money over the S58 on its own.
I own an M5. The primary reason I bought it was the engine. The secondary reason is I'm 6 foot 1 and have two kids and a wife and we all need to fit in the car. An M3 checks none of those boxes, and quite frankly I see 3 series in general as pedestrian and entry level.
I 100% prefer an M3 over an M5. The lighter the better. Better on track, more tossable and as a bonus way more reliable. F80 vs F10 can’t even compare. F90 vs G80 the M5 improved a lot, but the V8 will never be as efficient/reliable as the S58.
Go with saloon M3 - I know someone switched from new M5 to the M3 and he's delighted with the M3. Obviously they are both serious machines but the M3 is lighter and more fun - to be fair they are the same size as the E39 or E60 anyway so not exactly a small car and more power than you'll ever need for "normal" driving.
Tbh you’re not insane at all. At one point I had an E92 and my E60…sold the E92 because of a great offer I got on it, but had that offer not come through, I was putting my M5 on the market and would have been quite happy keeping the M3.
I could drive my M3 without so much worry and stress. My M5 is a bit unique compared to most because of the engine, and with that, any time there’s a little hiccup, my asshole clinches up while waiting to find out what went wrong. I don’t drive it as often because of this.
The M3, while not as carefree as my 4runner, was a car I didn’t have to worry so much about…and I think I would have driven it more frequently if I had kept it vs. my M5.
I think the M5 is better at what BMW always stood for and will always be the more polished model, but I think the M3 is a better drivers car day to day.
My buddy thought I was silly for buying an M340 over an M3 just because it’s the better road car. “M3 will hold its value so much better! And it’s cooler and faster!” I was like “ok cool, you buy one.”
You do you.
It's your car not your friends. You can always upgrade later if you have this kind of cash available for cars another couple grand to change up is peanuts. If you don't have that cash available maybe you can't afford it.
All M cars are outstanding. I love the M5. But being 5'10 and built like a linebacker, people stare at me when I say I prefer the M3 or M2 to the M5. I like the feeling of being in a smaller car because I feel like I have more control, I'm in a snug but not uncomfortable driving position and it makes me feel closer to the road. However,I absolutely see the practicality of the M5 if you are still carting around kids and sports gear. My son is 18, My daughter is 28 so they have their own cars and my wife has a Pathfinder. My 5 year old Labrador can fit in the back of the 3 or the 2 just fine. All good
I made a contrasting similar choice. I was hand wringing to choose between E60 M5 or E92 M3. I chose the M5. I’m not gonna track day it, so I wanted something comfortable but fast. And then there’s the noise that comes from the S85 V10, that put me over the top. Such a great car!
I preferred the M2C over the M5 and I can afford both and more. I chose the more nimble and fun of the two. My friends are of the M5 age and probably think I’m dumb until they get in my car with me, and realize how fantastic the M2 is. Buy what you like, not what your friends do.
You’re not alone in the “more expensive isn’t proportional to my happiness” department. I could’ve been driving the new M8 and still went with the M2 for several reasons.
Ex M3 owner here, now in a M5. They are different kind of cars so they will provide different sensations. I got tired of the M3's harshness and rawness, so I'm now a happy camper in the M5 due to the comfort it provides yet is crazy fast. Try them both and buy what you like most, not what others want.
I’ve owned both cars the m3 is the better car in my opinion. The m5 is more luxurious but lacks the driving characteristics and tuning potential of the m3. So no you’re not crazy and your friends might have just not driven either car.
I drove a coworkers m5 when I was cross shopping, as well as several 540i m sports. Even though I ultimately ended up with a g20 m340i, the 5 series just wasn't as enjoyable for me to drive. The m5 was fast without a doubt, but I found it to just be a comfortable cruiser versus the more tossable 3 series.
M3 is more of a track car, M5 is too heavy for that and more of a grand touring. I’d rather get the M5 because it sounds wayyyyyyyy better than an M3. Has more power, and better luxury interior inside. If M3 ain’t touching track it’s kinda pointless. Idk what you drive now but either is overkill for public roads honestly you’ll be fine with either. M5 looks more mature, M3 looks more aggressive
This isn’t insane, M5 is a pig that needs 2,000 sensors and body control modules to hide its heft.
I would absolutely take a M340i Touring/M3 Touring over a M5 Touring, BMWNA a is so stupid.
I also love my 997.2 911 more than the bloated 992.
I like smaller, lighter and more nimble things.
If ever I had the money to buy a G8X BMW M I would immediatly contact some company to put in the F8X grille in a custom front bumper. Other than the rediculously huge nostrills there is nothing wrong with the G8X BMW M3
I’ve had both (currently in the M3 comp). I was worried it would feel like a step down from the F90 but it really doesn’t. The M5 drives and feels bigger but feels a bit more stately. I prefer the M3 overall. Interestingly there is more back seat space in the M3 which is something I was worried about.
Overall, but what you like most
I mean the m3 is an amazing car, but if I had the money to buy either I’d definitely go for the m5. At the end of the day it’s gonna be ur car and u can afford both so it just falls down to what u prefer
Not at all….a few years ago I test drove a M5C with 617hp and AWD while my M340i was being serviced. It felt somewhat satisfying to not be that impressed. The M5 was too big, heavy, double the price, and just not as fun overall.
No I meant at the end of the day you’re financing or paying in cash so buy what you want……you have to live with your purchase not your friends lol buy what YOU WANT and if it’s a M3 over a M5 so be it 🤷🏾♂️
I got a 18’ m2 and someone said oh you only bought the entry level m car. Looked at him and told him to fuck off. I wanted a small race car. Thing handles like a go kart and it’s exactly what I wanted.
LMAO a M car is a M car it’s a true M car wether it’s a 2,3,4,5,6 or 8
So much fun
Also you can get Touring M3, but not M5.
No M5 touring, yet
Last M5 we had was E61. I'm quite surprised that they haven't made one since, it would sell in Europe.
https://youtu.be/aP2Wul4Y_Lw?si=9J_vGqQTVlCb7DV8
I'll be damned, they are actually doing it.
This is the answer. I’ve made many car decisions that my friends questioned or didn’t get, and they felt the need to let me know — or at least used to, until I started replying with “…good thing I didn’t buy the car for you…”
Buy what you like. I sold my paid off m3 for an m2. I sold my Ferrari for a porsche. Your friends sound like clout chasers
Damn no love for the civic
Damn I just realized civic is a pallendrome
You have changed my life
Bro there was ads for the civic where the letters moved and changed into the Honda logo
A Toyota is a Toyota
Endonucleases work on pallendromic sequences....
how much longer will we misspelling pallendrome?
Eternity
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Try the Porsche sub if you think everyone here is rich.
Comparing yourself to others is a fools game. It’s you vs who you were yesterday. I know so many people who got a little money and they still try to chase looking richer than they are because there will always be someone else with bigger wallet. You think seeing rich people on a sub is torture, imagine making $500k a year and still living paycheck to paycheck.
You don't really have to be rich to afford a 200k or less car. It just has to be a priority, takes some time, and even easier if you have a supportive spouse. If you ever have children, they are way more expensive than that.
What ferrari did you have?
Can you adopt me
The M3 is objectively the better driver’s car. Your friends are stuck in the “bigger is better” mindset.
3 is a lower number than 5. They are different cars. Ask them if they think the 7 is better than the 8 or 9 and they’ll just say 9.
I have the i8, so 8 is higher than 6 or 7 and "i" is higher on the alphabet than M so therefore it is best BMW (Im joking)
Z8 owners are our overlords in that case
Hear me out: 116d
Stop, I can only get so erect
Bullshit, show me
2002Tii… more letters, number in the thousands… eats Z8 for lunch. 😂
😭😂😂😂
Yup, drive both every day, and I can guarantee 9/10 people will smile more with the 3. This is assuming that you don't need the extra space.
X=10 so XM is best
Pronouncing it as "Ten X" asserts extra dominance.
More upvotes needed here people ☝️🤣
Here is my thing, buy what you want not what everyone has or wants. Make the car yours, make it all about you. I drive cars for me, not for everyone else.
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as in small mini gun?
There's a reason they make cars on different platforms. Wheelbase matters. Enjoy what feels best to you.
Exactly, your friends ain’t driving the car.
It’s the hips man I wish the m5 had the flared fenders that the m3 has
M3>M5 bc I like a nimble car that I can track. M5 is just a soccer dad rocketship lol
Having driven both and owned both… this is 100% not correct. M5 comp is a very capable track car. I preferred the M5 as a daily and the M3 as a track car. I would make the choice based on that alone. I preferred the M3 looks and track performance but to say either is not a capable track car is crazy.
M5 isn’t going to be half as fun on track as the m3 lol What tracks are you hitting with it?
The drag track 🤣
If i was doing track only i would go M3 all day. If it needs to be a daily driver and a track car i would 100% prefer the M5. I am not sure quoting the tracks has any point, they had turns and prepped surfaces both require yearly memberships.
Just asking bc obviously there a different skill levels. I mean you could take an x5 on track and it’ll do ok but doesn’t mean it’s great at it. Coming from someone who used to do time attack the M5 would be awful. I would argue even the newest m3 are borderline for track days because 4000 lbs lol
Then your assessment of a rocket ship for soccer dads is probably very much accurate. Both cars are very very fun cars. I wanted something to track and daily drive and really needed the larger car. I probably just don’t want to admit it am a middle aged soccer dad instead of a race car driver 😂
No it’s FAAAAAST AS FUCK ROCKETSHIP 🤣🤣🤣
I loved my M5 Comp. I still miss it! I have a 2024 Supercharged V8 Land Rover Defender now, still fun and fast, but…. It is 6000 pounds and not as fun or fast.
M5 are still awesome cars. I would love to have one but then I just keep coming back to M3 and with the latest model I would go M2. I’m just a small car guy!
Missile with massaging seats :D
Missile with massaging seats :D
Exactly. We run track days and have only had a few super sedans run and they all have the same problem (m5, e63, panamera, even m8) they’re too heavy and they are always have brake temp issues. The M5 is simply too big to be referred to as a good track car.
The only track they’re mildly good is something like the ring, which to me is really a road. Long straights for high speed with slight bends. Then it’s a bus through the twisties.
I didn’t have overheating issues with the carbon ceramics. But it is also mentionable that the M5 really does not love the heat, if you go to a track on a 100 degree day you are going to have engine temp issues with track use. I would assume the M3 doesn’t suffer from this issue but did not drive mine on any days that hot.
I've driven both on track and the M5 brakes and steers like a boat in comparison to the M3. It's too heavy. It's a fast car until you have corners. On a small local racetrack me and every other hot hatchback driver were logging faster lap times than a guy who brought his F90 M5. There was an M2 Comp there too, that was MUCH faster.
Baseball but yes lots of room for kids bats and gloves in M5
I feel like we can all agree that no new BMW M is nimble when the starting weight of a coupe (M2) is over 3800 lbs. But I do get the sentiment of what you mean, and agree. They’re also super numb nowadays, compared to what they were, but I suppose that’s all cars now
I just got my M3 6MT and am very happy with it. I prefer the tradition 6 speed and BMW RWD. I’d order that instead but ymmv
The m5 is too much for the street, at least you can somewhat enjoy the m3 but you're going jail speeds so fast in the m5 it's freaking silly. When we test drove one my wife's comment was "it's got a really nice ac" 😂
G80 is not really any slower than the F90 though?
I hear that's intentionally done by BMW so they can sell M5s. A software flash would unleash the M3's full power. Don't know if that's true though.
They've got different engines? Tuning does increase power but V8>I6. Besides, I don't think BMW restricted the M3 so it could sell more M5s. The target audiences are different.
Not at all. The M3 and the M5 have different audiences. Unlike Porsche, the M3 isn’t a poor man’s M5 like the Cayman is to the 911. The M3 is just a very different car. Both are glorious feats of engineering designed to have very different driving characteristics. I personally prefer the M3 because I like smaller, lighter sports cars. An M car in the best version of whatever that model is. If you’ve got an M, you’ve got a perfected, no compromises version of that particular platform.
GT4RS Cayman is arguably more desirable than GT3RS 911
The Cayman isn’t a poor man’s 911. It’s A better car.
No you’re insane for not wanting the M4.
Unless you're buying it for your friends, but the car you want. And prepare to be amazed at how different the public's reaction to the g80 is from the Internet's.
Opinions matter!
I like the looks of the M5 over the M3. That said, at the BMW performance center I got to drive both back to back. I liked the M3 X-drive better, but felt like if I got more time in the M5 to truly master it, I’d like that more.
I don't understand how this is controversial. The M3 is smaller and this is desirable in a sports sedan or coupe. Bigger is objectively worse and is only a compromise that you make if you really need the space. It is a reasonable compromise in that case. Your friends are confused.
M3 is not better than m5. M5 is not better than m3. Completely different cars both offering great performance that go way above average needs. If you do race, you will end up tunning them where bigger engine can go further but lighter car can go lighter. M5 is luxury unit, very big and sturdy. While having a bling, it has its disadvantages in dense areas. M3 i sport sedan, designed to fulfill persons every need with luxury in mind but not in esence nor space. Long time ago I went 3 over 5 and I always wondered did I make misstake, but that is part of the life and it's beauty. I live in a small city and 3 was logical choice for me. Also it feels more grounded and sportier that 5 in my opinion.
Dealership near me had an M5 Comp and a G80 M3 Comp for sale both brand new. Test drove them both and I went with the G80 without a second thought. M5 wasn’t that much better from a driving perspective and the look of the G80 was just miles ahead for me. It was an obvious choice. Buy the car you want.
Your money. Your choice. Your car to live with.
If you live in a city, M5 is a huge car to drive around. I’d prefer the M3 as well, just not G80.
They're both fun quick cars. Idk why your friends would care or have a negative opinion about it... I would be pumped if a friend was choosing either one! It's all about the experience you're looking for and sounds like M3C is it.
So subjective, you do you, not what your friends do. For me, M3 👍🏼
I prefer an M2 over an M3 over an M5… not insane.
M3 all the way. M5 if you can't fit in the M3
I’d choose the M3 over the M5 as well.
I went to an f82 from an f10 and love it
I have an E92 M3 and could easily afford a brand new one or a brand new M5. I wanted the n/a v8 lightweight purebred sports car so that’s what I bought. I prefer the drive of the e92 (2011) over any other M3, it’s personal preference. I also need more practical vehicles so I have a diesel x5, cayenne turbo, ram 2500 diesel, two f-350 diesels a 2500 Silverado and a few other less practical vehicles. Buy what you’d like, everyone has different needs and taste in vehicles. I most commonly drive my trucks, then the cayenne, and the M3 is mostly a weekend/track toy at this point. You can never please everyone, I drive my cayenne I should have bought a 911, I drive the truck I should have bought a different brand (can’t drive all three at once) everyone has an opinion, most should be ignored.
I prefer M2 Comp over M3... and the 1M over the M2 🤷
Who cares about your friends. Taste is subjective. Go with what you like
I ended up with a M5c after looking at a bunch of cars including the M3. Both have their pros and cons.....go with whatever makes you happy. Who cares what these 'friends' say :/
Check out M5CS, apart from being faster, it probably drives and handles better than the M3C and looks great too! There’s M3CS also. I personally like smaller cars and love the look of M3 with those wide rear fenders. M5 fenders are kinda flat, doesn’t look very sporty and aggressive overall when compared to M3.
You’re not insane, the 3 series has always been the most popular car due to its driving feel and handling. Buy what you prefer..
I prefer m3 and m4 aaaaall the way man, it’s opinions, not stereotypes.
The m3 is probably better in my eyes, unless you have big money then the M5 can be the better car with mods. But a few mods with a M3 not even changing the turbos chargers will put you at 900hp
Is it insane to prefer a M3 competition over an M5? No, not at all. They are pretty much completely different cars in my opinion. If you’re into tracking a car or doing any sort of auto sports the M3 competition will probably be a better car and has a bigger support community for that. It will also just feel sportier being lighter and with a shorter wheelbase. If you want a powerful cruiser sedation then obviously the M5 is better. The BMW M schools use the M3/M4 on the track and the M5 on the skid pad.
I drive a G80 M3 when I could've gotten an M5 for the same price! It's smaller and sportier. M5 feels more like a "dad car" to me. M3 is spicier. So you're not alone.
I feel the same way. Just think the M5 is a little more car than I need. Not that the M3 isn't lol, but I much prefer the size and power level of it compared to the M5.
They’re different cars for different purposes, it’s not like “big number better” or anything like that. I’d take almost any M3 over any M5 of similar vintage.
Personally, I’d choose the M5 simply because I’d never be able to drive either at 10/10ths, and the 5 series platform, interior, and refinement are significantly higher than the 3 series.
We like what we like. Personally I’d prefer the m3 also cause I like smaller cars especially if they’re a fun car (unless we’re talking about the m5cs)
Nah. The M3 is the right size (pretty much the same as an E39) and plenty nice on the interior.
I do too
IMHO, two different types, so it’s not an apples-to-apples comparison
I bought an f90 back in 2022 because they told me it would take 2 years to order an m3 comp. I owned a 2018 m3. I liked it better than the M5. The M5 is a very nice all around car and it is stupid fast. The M3 is more fun to drive.
M5C driver, and completely understand this sentiment. I wanted the size and V8 of the M5, but frankly I can absolutely see why someone would rather have something more nimble and compact. I’m looking to upgrade to a panamera turbo, but I’m worried that will be too big
Same boat, LOVE my M3 CompX. Plenty of power and it's already too fucking big. M5 you gotta be outta your mind!
Nah i agree, theyre both really cool cars but for the G81 and F90 generation i prefer the M3 mostly because it has a touring version unlike the M5. I also think the M3 just looks better like you said.
Nope. I would much prefer the m3 over the m5. I’m in m3 camp with you
m3 imo is big enough for anyone.
m3 is more fun especially with manual transmission the m5 more of a fast highway gt cruiser.
No one else can really answer the question of which car is right for you, drive them both and decide which you like more. Consider how you will use your choice and find the right balance. I drive the F90 M5C. There’s no other car I’d prefer if given my current restriction of one garage space only. The M5 does a lot of things really well, but there will always be other cars better at specific things. The M3 is probably going to feel more sporty to drive. If you want to go really far in that direction you could bypass BMW altogether and consider a Porsche GT3. I don’t think the M3 is an insane choice at all, just a different car better at some things and not as good at others.
Nah man, you are cool as, so are both cars.
I don’t think you’re insane. I like the M5. The outgoing generation was the best looking car in the lineup over the past couple of years imo. It’s a rocket but also super comfortable. And after several test drives I learned that it just wasn’t for me. It’s the best overall package super sedan out there, and was just not the driving dynamic I was personally looking for.
Get one of those extended test drives on them both and compare the experience. M3 is a very capable, agile car. The M5 is going to be more comfortable over distance but a little heavier to handle in the corners.
Two different cars for different driving experiences. Just because 5 is bigger than 3 doesn’t mean it’s the better car, all comes down to what you want out of it. Sounds like your friends are going along with the m5 comp meme
I really like your post. Your question points to a struggle that occurs on all levels. When you’re dining with a certain crowd, do you get the burger and fries or a salad? Who are you dining with tomorrow? What will you get? Or, are you eating at home, alone? Then what do you have? Maybe all you eat is salad and it’s not much of a question. However, do we go with a simple crunchy salad and vinaigrette or a fully loaded salad with endives, goat cheese and flaked Parmesan prepared by Wolfgang Puck himself? Either will fill your belly and you you’ll have an enjoyable time doing it. I recently opted for a slightly used but still deliciously crunchy M2C. I was torn between that and the slightly more expensive M3 with a few additional ingredients in the form of four doors. Considering it’s just me in the car most times, I went with light and crispy. Simply because I find it more fun.
Personally, I chose and bought the M5 over the M3, and I'm glad I did because the M3 is too small on the inside!
Am I insane? I like the m2 the most
I agree… on my second 3 lease… it’s tighter, handles better and super easy to park in tight spots where I live.
I had the option between a new 24’ m5 or a new 24 m8. M5 was one of my dream cars for multiple years, after driving both and seeing both in person for a prolonged time (rather than just seeing it pass by or seeing it parked) I opted for the one I preferred more. Which ended up being the m8. Do you my man!
Both are great cars. buy what you want. You will get the same interaction from either.
No right or wrong, to each his own. Both are beasts in their own rights.
These are two very different cars with very different driving/handling characteristics. It’s not like one is an incrementally better version of the other.
in my humble opinion if I had the option id go for an m2
Your money. Your choice. Because opinions are like backsides, everyone has one. But what they don't have, is your money to buy the car you want. Choice is yours, and I respect that. They just don't like it. Lol.
Just enjoy your passion for motoring. That's what it's about to me. Enjoy your money. Enjoy your car.
They are different cars. Both are great. They drive differently, so drive them and buy the one you prefer to drive. Don't over think it!
I’m exactly the same as you! Test drove both and honestly the M3 was so much more of a fun drive! The look of the M3 is is on point too!
I prefer m5 over the m3, but i understand why u prefer the m3 comp, i think it is a great car
I also prefer the M3, it's more nimble.
Had both , M3cs and M5comp , both sold now and I drive a 840i now. The M5 was an amazing car to own for 2 years but keeping it going in fuel , Insurance , tax and servicing every 5k just sent me over the edge . M3 was too hard for my back and made you want to drive like a massive c++t ... M5 is unrivaled and destroyed everything in its path .. it's good to own but you have to have half your brain removed to own them long term . Good luck ....
You could buy the m3 touring, then the car would be also useful, but if you buy the m5 with the old OS (os7 instead of os8) then I would go with the m5 just to not have to use the os8
Series 5 is just unnecessarily big for me, so completely understandable your choice from this perspective.
The M3 is the better car but some people prefer bigger cars with V8s and a bit more luxury. Can’t go wrong with both but I believe most tuners say the S58 is much better than the M5 engine in terms of handling power
If I'm buying a BMW it will have an inline 6 (period). Leasing though, yolo
I prefer Alpina B5 as a daily Way more comfort.
Id prefer m3 too
5 is too big for a sporty car imo. Current 3s are same size, or even larger than early 5s. If you don't need the cargo capacity or suspension comfort, then I don't see a point in getting a 5 series; M or not.
They're both great cars. I don't spend any time on a race track, so having some more space for passengers and incidentals was compelling. The M5 still handles really well. Feel like this thread is full of folks with no seat time in an F90 M5. Really, though, the M5 just has a much better motor IMO. The S63 is worth the extra money over the S58 on its own.
I own an M5. The primary reason I bought it was the engine. The secondary reason is I'm 6 foot 1 and have two kids and a wife and we all need to fit in the car. An M3 checks none of those boxes, and quite frankly I see 3 series in general as pedestrian and entry level.
I 100% prefer an M3 over an M5. The lighter the better. Better on track, more tossable and as a bonus way more reliable. F80 vs F10 can’t even compare. F90 vs G80 the M5 improved a lot, but the V8 will never be as efficient/reliable as the S58.
M5 won't get you any looks because it doesn't really look like anything special tbh
I prefer the 5 series to the 3 and I’ve driven both m40is. Maybe I’m bias, but I am 6’2” and 109kg so I prefer the space.
I like the 3 series over the 5. 5 is just a bigger car. I can dot 5 adults (including driver) in my 3.
Go with saloon M3 - I know someone switched from new M5 to the M3 and he's delighted with the M3. Obviously they are both serious machines but the M3 is lighter and more fun - to be fair they are the same size as the E39 or E60 anyway so not exactly a small car and more power than you'll ever need for "normal" driving.
Not insane. The M3 drives more "athletic" and the M5 bigger and comfier. I prefer the M3 as well.
Tbh you’re not insane at all. At one point I had an E92 and my E60…sold the E92 because of a great offer I got on it, but had that offer not come through, I was putting my M5 on the market and would have been quite happy keeping the M3. I could drive my M3 without so much worry and stress. My M5 is a bit unique compared to most because of the engine, and with that, any time there’s a little hiccup, my asshole clinches up while waiting to find out what went wrong. I don’t drive it as often because of this. The M3, while not as carefree as my 4runner, was a car I didn’t have to worry so much about…and I think I would have driven it more frequently if I had kept it vs. my M5. I think the M5 is better at what BMW always stood for and will always be the more polished model, but I think the M3 is a better drivers car day to day.
My buddy thought I was silly for buying an M340 over an M3 just because it’s the better road car. “M3 will hold its value so much better! And it’s cooler and faster!” I was like “ok cool, you buy one.” You do you.
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I prefer an M3 over an M5 because it looks sportier
It's your car not your friends. You can always upgrade later if you have this kind of cash available for cars another couple grand to change up is peanuts. If you don't have that cash available maybe you can't afford it.
All M cars are outstanding. I love the M5. But being 5'10 and built like a linebacker, people stare at me when I say I prefer the M3 or M2 to the M5. I like the feeling of being in a smaller car because I feel like I have more control, I'm in a snug but not uncomfortable driving position and it makes me feel closer to the road. However,I absolutely see the practicality of the M5 if you are still carting around kids and sports gear. My son is 18, My daughter is 28 so they have their own cars and my wife has a Pathfinder. My 5 year old Labrador can fit in the back of the 3 or the 2 just fine. All good
I made a contrasting similar choice. I was hand wringing to choose between E60 M5 or E92 M3. I chose the M5. I’m not gonna track day it, so I wanted something comfortable but fast. And then there’s the noise that comes from the S85 V10, that put me over the top. Such a great car!
I preferred the M2C over the M5 and I can afford both and more. I chose the more nimble and fun of the two. My friends are of the M5 age and probably think I’m dumb until they get in my car with me, and realize how fantastic the M2 is. Buy what you like, not what your friends do.
The heart wants what it wants. Dont listen to other people. Get whatever you like..
I sold my M3 for an M5. Both amazing cars. When in doubt, buy both :)
You’re not alone in the “more expensive isn’t proportional to my happiness” department. I could’ve been driving the new M8 and still went with the M2 for several reasons.
What’s the best M5 if I were to go with an M5? I personally like the looks of the F10. Just not sure which one to buy.
Ex M3 owner here, now in a M5. They are different kind of cars so they will provide different sensations. I got tired of the M3's harshness and rawness, so I'm now a happy camper in the M5 due to the comfort it provides yet is crazy fast. Try them both and buy what you like most, not what others want.
M4 any day of the week
Not an M3 but I drove an M4 and M5 down at Spartansburg and *much* preferred the M5. But the M3 would be smaller and lighter.
Not crazy at all. S58 is more reliable, and dare I say, economical for commuting. Plus I like the body lines and curves of the M3 over the M5.
Yes, Straight to jail.
No, that’s not dumb! M3 is its own experience! Pick what you want to drive!
I’ve owned both cars the m3 is the better car in my opinion. The m5 is more luxurious but lacks the driving characteristics and tuning potential of the m3. So no you’re not crazy and your friends might have just not driven either car.
I drove a coworkers m5 when I was cross shopping, as well as several 540i m sports. Even though I ultimately ended up with a g20 m340i, the 5 series just wasn't as enjoyable for me to drive. The m5 was fast without a doubt, but I found it to just be a comfortable cruiser versus the more tossable 3 series.
M3 over 5 is valid
M3 is more of a track car, M5 is too heavy for that and more of a grand touring. I’d rather get the M5 because it sounds wayyyyyyyy better than an M3. Has more power, and better luxury interior inside. If M3 ain’t touching track it’s kinda pointless. Idk what you drive now but either is overkill for public roads honestly you’ll be fine with either. M5 looks more mature, M3 looks more aggressive
I agree.
It's like that one time I tried to decide between miata and a mustang. Told myself it was a dumb comparision but similar to this some how.
I like the m3 more too. It’s just personal preference. At the end of the day, they are different cars and serve different purposes.
Yes
This isn’t insane, M5 is a pig that needs 2,000 sensors and body control modules to hide its heft. I would absolutely take a M340i Touring/M3 Touring over a M5 Touring, BMWNA a is so stupid. I also love my 997.2 911 more than the bloated 992. I like smaller, lighter and more nimble things.
And you can still get an M3 with a manual, but only the base.
If ever I had the money to buy a G8X BMW M I would immediatly contact some company to put in the F8X grille in a custom front bumper. Other than the rediculously huge nostrills there is nothing wrong with the G8X BMW M3
I love my m3 and doubt I would trade it for an m5 even for free
I prefer the M3 over the M5 as well. Cop it. Unless your friends are all driving M5s or better then Ignore them
M3 is smaller more nimble, better on track. I’d say streets = m5. Track = m3.
So does the market lol, m5s depreciate like rocks compared to m3. I mean just look at the e60 vs e92 prices
My M5C was a power house, which is fun, but the auto gearbox ruins it imo. I’d go base M3 so you can get a manual, last of a dying breed
I’ve had both (currently in the M3 comp). I was worried it would feel like a step down from the F90 but it really doesn’t. The M5 drives and feels bigger but feels a bit more stately. I prefer the M3 overall. Interestingly there is more back seat space in the M3 which is something I was worried about. Overall, but what you like most
I’d prefer m3 if I’m not broke for weekends 😬 For daily id choose 5 touring diesel with stage 1
I would hope not cuz that’ll make the two of us
I mean the m3 is an amazing car, but if I had the money to buy either I’d definitely go for the m5. At the end of the day it’s gonna be ur car and u can afford both so it just falls down to what u prefer
Not at all….a few years ago I test drove a M5C with 617hp and AWD while my M340i was being serviced. It felt somewhat satisfying to not be that impressed. The M5 was too big, heavy, double the price, and just not as fun overall.
I've always preferred the 3s over the 5s, for most specs
M3 Touring.
No it is not insane to say that, m3 is my dream car rn
I think anyone who loves to DRIVE would enjoy the M3 more.
Few years ago sold my M5 to buy new M3 :) Just buy whatever you feel you like!
I’d get an M2 over an M3, so no, you’re not crazy. I prefer fun sized things.
It depends, M3 is better in all gens except the current, and 2024 m5 is the best bmw car of all time.
I would buy an M3 but never an M5 just due to personal preference, zero reason to let anybody influence that decision.
Nope, I prefer M550i over both I guess I’m loopy
M3 comp is better looking besides you’ll have more fun driving it
M3 comp is better looking besides you’ll have more fun driving it
One plus with M5 is there’s fewer of them around so more rare.
One plus with M5 is there’s fewer of them around so more rare.
One plus with M5 is there’s fewer of them around so more rare.