Well I've decided to sell my 530d after 1 year of enjoyable ownership. I haven't had many issues with the car at all and have really enjoyed the performance but I've set my sights on a new Porsche 911 Carrera (997 model) which I can have for Sept/Oct delivery next year. This will be a huge step up in terms of cost/performance and I'm really looking forward to it. I've never been in such a fortunate position before so I want to make the most of the whole decision making experience.

In the meantime a friend of mine who works at a BMW dealership is keen to do me a good deal on either an X5 3.0i sport or 630Ci for November delivery. I'm not sure which way to go on this but am favouring the X5 which should have a stronger residual and will cost ?5k less to start with so a lower cost to change against my 5. I used to own an X5 3.0i sport but they tell me the new X drive platform is much improved. I thought the original X5 was a superb car. Which way would you guys go?

I guess there will be those who say go for an E60 M5 over the Porsche as well but whilst I think the new M5 is going to be special, nothing will rival the experience of a 911.

TRAITOR!!!!!! :)) :))
Just kidding, good luck with your Porsche.

If he could get you a X5 3.0D Sport then I would go for the X5 every day of the week and twice on sunday, purely from a resale/residual point of view.

Not sure how the X5 3.0i's compare when it comes to resale.

The 630i has a list of around ?45k i think, so depending on how good a deal he's offering maybe you could try for an approved used 645ci? there are quite a few low milers on the BMW AUC website around the high 40's low 50's bracket...i'm sure given the number of cars on there someone would be keen to do a deal and accept a mid/low 40's bid on one of those cars.

Good luck !!

Live long and prospect my friend. Maybe you want to drop by and show us your posrche?

Have you seem the upcoming 928 with 4 doors?

ISUK,
Thought it would not be long before you were due to change your car. Porsche 911 is some replacement!!! In the meantime although my heart says the 630 would be a fantastic stop gap my head says the X5 will hold its value far better provided you don't go over the top with options. Look forward to seeing pics of whatever you go for.
P.S. Have you still got the Z4 and if so have you actually driven it this Summer!!
Mark - Yorkshire

I always wanted a Porsche and shopped for one along with an NSX, Corvette, and the E39. E39 540-6 won out and I have never regretted. The problem I had with the Porsche was the fitting of my big aluminum box into the back seat. I knew that over time I would wear through the leather. I still admire the Porsche as any true auto aficionada should. :wub:

997 carerra, M5, or used 996TT

Are the M5 and 997 going for the same price? I thought with basic options, the M5 would go for around 100K.

The M5 will be much faster than the 911. In fact, it probably will be faster in a straight line than a 911 Turbo - it's track times are already faster. Of course, I'm biased because I'm waiting for the M5. I could get a 911, but I'd much rather have the M5. I think it will set the standard for performance cars for some time to come.

I would make my decision based on a test drive of the Porsche - I don't think you'll be able to test an M5. If you really love it, then go for it.

911 turbo :wub:

M5 :wub: :wub: :wub: :wub: :wub: :devil: :devil: :devil:

Ok I own a Boxster and a 911 C2 2002, Speed Yellow with PSM and Sports Exahust. The 5 is much more of a comfortable/performance car. I spent more time in my Bimmer than in my Porsche. The 997 is a great car but the M5 seats four, has a trunk and is comfortable. When I go on my Porsche club drives after 4 hour trips I park the car and don't drive it for weeks....it is uncomfortablle and rough.

On a Status Symbol note - 911 takes the cake - my speed yeloow 911 with Rear Factory tail gets more attention than any car I have ever owned.......I do get a high driving it but as a daily driver ......the Bimmer takes the cake