How 3-series has grown (1975-2007)

[martieg]

The following table that summarizes 1-Series through 7-Series size evolution.



The interesting thing is that the new 2008 1-Series is bigger than the first 3-Series of 1975. Longer, wider, taller, heavier, and way more powerful.

At the same time today's 3-series is larger than the first 5-series of 1972 (except that is a bit shorter).

And finally, today's 5-series is larger than the first 7-series of 1977 (except that is 1 inch shorter).

All series have grown, replacing the next series. We've seen many threads attacking how the 3-series is now heavier, bigger, etc. Well, the 3-series is the not the entry level anymore, it's the new "5-series". And if you research, this is common throughout all brands (look up for instance the first Ford Explorer specs and you'll see that the new Ford Escape is almost the same size as it, and the new Explorer is now a big almost full size SUV).

[akhter]

thats cool!

[martieg]

Originally Posted by akhter

thats cool!

Thanks! I just saw another post about someone that just saw the new 135i in a dealer, and his opinion that it will be an instant classic. The 135i is the new "3-series".

[Comet]

that's really cool
however oddly enough, I still find my dad's 1989 7 to be more spacious than the new 7 (and his new S-class)

it's funny how they were actually smaller but felt more roomy... am I the only one who feels that?

but great find, and great thread

[ElCapitan]

I saw similar data on Honda. Basically the Civic grew a lot since its first generation and the Honda Fit is bigger than the first Civic. It seems like a trend accross the industry. Domestics got smaller and lighter (since the 70's) and imports got bigger and heavier.

[gloster]

Plumping up across the industry....

Government: anti-lock brakes, air bags, bumpers, emission controls, crash standards

Consumers: power windows, power door locks, remote access, nav systems, air conditioning, 14 speaker stereo systems, power seats, rear camera systems, power steering, heated seats, cruise control, 300hp engines and turbos, 18"+ wheels, remote trunk unlock/open, passenger side mirror, power side mirrors, six speed transmissions, lighted visor mirrors, dual power outlets, and a partridge in a pear tree

Say HELLO TUBBY!!!!!!

uh oh...gotta go on a diet, hmmm...I don't want to cut out my sweets. What else can I cut?

Let's see.....nuke the spare tire and the jack, slap on some plastic body panels, hmmm...wonder if I can afford aluminum? Do I still look fat to you?

[JackMac]

Thanks for sharing. The chart puts some facts behind what we all have seen as a trend toward heavier cars (due to increased vehicle content and size).

The other trend (unfortunately) is the reduction of direct driver interaction and control of the vehicle. Each generation places more technology between car and driver. Some good, some useless.

Can't wait to test drive the 135i next year!

[montreal red]

heh ... yea ... cars are getting fatter everyday just like most of us actually...

[F32Fleet]

Originally Posted by Comet

that's really cool
however oddly enough, I still find my dad's 1989 7 to be more spacious than the new 7 (and his new S-class)

it's funny how they were actually smaller but felt more roomy... am I the only one who feels that?

but great find, and great thread

I think older BMW's had larger or taller greenhouses than what we have today.

[bartman32]

very cool having all of that together. Man this car has gained some weight too! Current 3 is 800lbs more than first 5!

[BYZBYZ]

Legend..

[martieg]

Originally Posted by bartman32

very cool having all of that together. Man this car has gained some weight too! Current 3 is 800lbs more than first 5!

Yes, it really helps to put things in perspective. The BMW series that I think is falling behind the competition is the 7-Series. Is probably way too big.

[Kiemyster]

wow. excellent thread! good stuff man!

[MikeCCrutchfield]

Originally Posted by Socom

I think older BMW's had larger or taller greenhouses than what we have today.

because the "Belt-line" has moved up for more safety in side-impacts, especially side impacts with SUV's