Thanks everyone.

I think your answers helped me in getting a clearer picture and make up my mind.

BTW, after long and thorough soul searching, I have decided to go for the 535d and actually ordered the one the dealer has in stock (with active steering and 18" wheels).

It should be ready for delivery next week and I can't wait to collect it

 

whatever choice, both are fantastic!

I have the oilburner and i like it better the more i drive it. It's actuallly getting better with the miles! By now i have 10000km's and it's running better than ever before.
Anyway, you'll love it.

 

Dont forget to post pics GPS! and congrats, you've made a wise choice!

 

Sure I will, as soon as I get the beast!

 

Congratulations!

I didn't realize until recently the price difference between the 545 and 535d was so great.

I could sort of justify the price difference between a 530i or 530d and 545, but I have a hard time believing that any extra performance or increased sound would justify a 10K price tag over the 535d.

Now if you are anti-diesel, I could see that justification, but the 535d makes a strong arguement againt the normal diesel stereotypes (i.,e, sounds, performance, refinement) plus you get 25+ mpg

Driving with the pedal to the metal never felt so good

 

Indeed, it is quite unusual, considering that diesel engines are more complex from a mechanical standpoint (i.e. turbines, high pressure injectors) and hence usually more expensive than their petrol peers. I guess there must be a marketing motivation, being the 545i the flagship version.

 

Congartulations, JPS! Dolce vita
I have to wait till fall for my one

 

here are my baby's first pics, still at the dealer's premises ...

delivery is due to take place in the next few days (Italian redtape, alas!) and more photos will follow asap

cheers

 

Wow, nice! That was fast!