[dhoggm3]

I have both - got the M5 as a company car because I have to take co workers and clients sometimes, and my sons just got too big for the back of the 3. It's big and fast but has no guts until it gets to 5K, then it screams. Outside it sounds awesome. Inside it sounds weird. It handles well for a big pig, but it's still a big pig. If you need the room, it's still almost the only choice.

That said, the M3 sounds better and handles worlds better. It's simply more fun to drive in any situation except in a straight line at 5K+, where there's little on Earth that's more fun than an M5. But how many times do you actually do that? M3 = nimble, fast and fun. M5 = roomy and a rocketship above 5K, handles very well for a big pig.

If I could choose only one, there's NO DOUBT I'd take the M3. Unless I really needed the room.

Cheers!