The BMW 3 Series has been around since 1975 and has become one of the most popular compact luxury cars on the market. But is it really a compact car? In this article, we’ll explore the dimensions of the BMW 3 Series and compare it to other vehicles in its class to determine if it truly belongs in the compact car category.
Dimensions
Let’s start by looking at the dimensions of the BMW 3 Series. The current model, introduced in 2019, has a length of 185 inches, a width of 71 inches, and a height of 56 inches. Its wheelbase measures 112 inches. These dimensions are similar to those of other compact luxury cars such as the Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
However, the BMW 3 Series also has a fairly spacious interior, with 42 inches of front legroom and 35 inches of rear legroom. This is more than what you’d find in many other compact cars. So while the exterior dimensions may be typical for a compact car, the interior space is anything but cramped.
Fuel Economy
Another factor to consider when determining if the BMW 3 Series is a compact car is its fuel economy. The 2021 model gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with its base engine. While these numbers are good, they’re not quite as impressive as what you’d get from a true compact car like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla.
Handling and Performance
Of course, the BMW 3 Series is known for more than just its size and fuel economy. It’s also lauded for its handling and performance. The car comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 255 horsepower. There’s also an available 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine that cranks out 382 horsepower.
But is this level of power necessary for a compact car? While it’s true that the BMW 3 Series is smaller than many other luxury cars on the market, it still offers plenty of performance. The car’s nimble handling and responsive steering make it a joy to drive, even on winding roads.
Price
Finally, let’s talk about price. The starting MSRP for the BMW 3 Series is $41,250, which is certainly not cheap. However, it’s also not as expensive as some other luxury cars on the market. For example, the Audi A4 starts at $39,100, while the Mercedes-Benz C-Class has a starting price of $43,000.
Ultimately, whether or not the BMW 3 Series is a compact car depends on how you define the term. If you’re strictly looking at exterior dimensions, then yes, it fits into the compact category. But if you consider factors like interior space, fuel economy, handling, and price, then it’s clear that the BMW 3 Series is in a league of its own.
Pros and Cons of Owning a BMW 3 Series
Now that we’ve explored whether or not the BMW 3 Series is a compact car, let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of owning one.
Pros:
- Performance: As mentioned earlier, the BMW 3 Series is known for its exceptional handling and performance. Its sporty nature makes it a fun car to drive, whether you’re cruising on the highway or taking on twisty back roads.
- Comfort: Despite its small size, the BMW 3 Series has a spacious and comfortable interior. The seats are supportive and there’s plenty of room for both front and rear passengers.
- Technology: BMW is known for its innovative technology, and the 3 Series is no exception. It comes with a host of advanced features such as a digital driver display, a head-up display, and wireless charging.
Cons:
- Price: As mentioned earlier, the BMW 3 Series is not cheap. Its starting price of over $40,000 puts it out of reach for many buyers.
- Maintenance Costs: Owning a BMW can be expensive when it comes to maintenance and repairs. Parts and labor costs are generally higher than what you’d find with a non-luxury car.
- Firm Ride: While the BMW 3 Series’ handling is praised by many, some drivers may find its ride to be too firm for their liking. The car’s sporty suspension can make for a bumpy ride on rough roads.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the BMW 3 Series is a compact car in terms of its exterior dimensions, but it offers much more than what you’d expect from a typical compact car. Its spacious interior, impressive performance, and advanced technology make it a standout in its class. However, its high price tag and potential maintenance costs may be drawbacks for some buyers. Ultimately, whether or not the BMW 3 Series is the right car for you depends on your priorities and budget. If you’re looking for a luxury car that delivers both style and performance, and you’re willing to pay a premium for it, then the BMW 3 Series is definitely worth considering. But if you’re on a tight budget or you prioritize fuel economy over performance, then you may want to look at other options in the compact car category.
