If it were me, I'd get either the M3 or the S4. I do think the C55 is quite nice, but if your going to spend 60K+, I'd learn to love the e60 and the 545.

 

Having posted the range of cars that have and their prices, I would seriously reconsider the 5 series. Of the mid size sedans, it feels the most agile for its actual size. I went from a 1990 Honda Accord to a 545i. It seemed big in the cramped streets European cities but in the US, you will be used to its size within 8 hours behind the wheel.

You need a 4 door with family coming. Trust me, I have 3 kids. You do not want to be loading a baby seat into the back seat of a coupe.

You have some expensive cars in your line up. Drive a 545i, its the best combination of comfort, sportiness and space. I notice you don't care for the Acuras. Not enough status? Well the C class benz in IMO are lousy overpriced cars with a silver star on the hood. The E-Class is beautiful very well appointed but not a drivers car.

 

Based on the choices you offered, I would go for the M3 or S4.

The S4 if you comfortably want to take your family with you.

If I wasn't such a BMW fan, that's the car I personally would go far.

Especially since it's offered in a wagon. It's an awesome car.

I think Audi's prestige level is increasing in the US and as

I'm concerned in Europe, it's on par with BMW and Mercedes.

Good luck, you have some nice choices.

 

Ok, just order a 2005 BMW M3. Should be arriving in March 2005.
I decided on the M3 is because i always wanted a M3 since High School Days.
Also, about the baby seats. I could just buy an extra Baby Seat ($70) and just leave it on the M3 back seat. This gives me the option to take the baby out with me and not worry about taking in or out the baby seat all the time. Beside i do have a Honda Van for Family trips.

I also made this decision because i went to test drive the C320 and E500 . The C320 was ok but not quite for me. I even like the Audi S4 a whole lot more. The E500 had lots of power and the interior looks really nice but the BMW 545i drives a whole lot better. The E500 felt like a boat at low speed. What i'm trying to say is there is no road feel when your driving the car. I would love to be a passenger on the E500 (so comfortable) but not the driver.

Anyway, just an update on what i ended up with.

Thanks everyone for your inputs and enjoy your 5 Series. Great choice especailly over the MB E Series. IMO

 

please stop by once in a while and post some pics when you get your new toy .

 

congrats...great choice

 

Ok, I will alohalc.

 

 

Stay away from new Acura TL...I've just traded my TL that was only 5 months old because I couldn't stand all rattles and vibration this car developed after 6k miles.
Plus it doesn't have low end torque and it requires advanced techniques to have a very good launch from a stand still.
Go for G35 (which is as big as E60) or best of all go for Audi A4 which IMHO is a very nice car (I use to own one).