As mentioned the 3-series is generally more fun to drive (i.e. handles better). The primary reason is size/weight.

 

my E46 M3 is as good!

 

I don't know about you guys,but from driving my friends' 335 and now my 535i, i'm 18 and seriously, honestly! the 535i handling ismuch better for daily driving.

The 335i sports suspension is way too stiff for just regular cruising around, i enjoy the 5 series much more, i tried driving in a parking lot with the 335i, oh my lord, id rather walk.. steering wheel is IMO too stiff for daily usage, but take a turn doing 50 and the handling takes the 5 series handling out the door

 

I have had two 3's (one an M3) and two 5's. The 5 is an awesome luxury car with unmatched handling for its size and comfort. A 3 is a sports car with a back seat. Less comfortable ride but definitely sharper and quicker handling. My .02

 

No, they don't all handle like they're on rails and aren't all the same. All you can really say is that they handle much better than their competitors of the same class. Try comparing an X5 to a Mercedes ML (non-AMG) and it's a world of difference.

The 1, 3, 5, 6 and Z4 will all give you the same (or better) level of handling than your 5 series. The 7, X3, X5 and X6 won't be as good naturally (how could they be as good, they're bigger and heavier and have higher centre of gravity). Again though, it's all relative, and you just can't do better when comparing a similar sized car (OK Porsche's Cayenne will toast the X5, and a Cayman/Boxster will nudge out the Z4 by a very small margin).

 

I've driven e46s, e90s, e60, e63, e66, e70, e53s and I can ohnestly say each and everyone is definantly unique in its own way, but all of them fun and comfy to drive. Of course the e63s seem to be the most enjoyable

 

I had a 335xi for a week (never even got a picture of it! ) ....and a few 328i loaners along the way.

They took the corners like they were on rails...I can't say that about my 530xi or 550i....M5 was close. The steering in the 3's was so tight in comparison, and I used to love taking the curves in them.

 

My girl has an '03 330i. I love how it handles. It's like a freaking rocket!

 

My E61 with SP is by far the best handling BMW that I have owned. No comparison to any of the E46 vehicles, or E39 Touring that I owned.

That said, probably the best driving experience that I have had in a BMW, was in my buddy's 2001 E38 (740iL) with SP. Fabulous to drive and probably even better to ride in.

 

Best handling sedan I've ever owned. Gotta love the 50/50 weight balance...