Is 545 worth the extra dollar?
09-14-2005, 06:50 AM
#31
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My Ride: 2008 Porsche 911 Carrera S Convertible. Midnight Blue, 6 Speed.Retired - 2007 997 Carrera S, Midnight Blue, Grey leather, premium audioRetired - 2007 550i, Monaco Blue over Beige, Navigation, Logic 7, Cold Weather Pack, Comfort Access, Sport Package
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Originally Posted by arthurk' date='Sep 14 2005, 07:09 AM
Thanks for all your great responses.? That definitely helps in my decision making.
To summarize,
1.? 545/550 is no doubt a smooth and refined engine for car enthusiasts
2.? 530 will do just fine for regular commute
3.? Don't test drive the 545/550 unless I am ready to spend the $$?
4.? If I were to lease, the rates between the two are very similar
5.? Surging gas prices will set back the resale value of V8 engines.
I guess it all depends on my requirements.? I drive a maximum of 15000km a year mostly city commute (I have an Infiniti FX for winter).? While I occasionally go on long trips, that still does not seem to justify spending the extra $$ on a 545/550.? Leasing, however, is a different story since resale value will not be a concern anymore.? Nonetheless, I still need to visit my local dealers to confirm if the lease rates between 530 and 545 are really similar.? All in all, I enjoy the feeling of prestige driving the top model (excluding M5) within the 5 series with the extra ponies
.?
Thanks again
To summarize,
1.? 545/550 is no doubt a smooth and refined engine for car enthusiasts
2.? 530 will do just fine for regular commute
3.? Don't test drive the 545/550 unless I am ready to spend the $$?
4.? If I were to lease, the rates between the two are very similar
5.? Surging gas prices will set back the resale value of V8 engines.
I guess it all depends on my requirements.? I drive a maximum of 15000km a year mostly city commute (I have an Infiniti FX for winter).? While I occasionally go on long trips, that still does not seem to justify spending the extra $$ on a 545/550.? Leasing, however, is a different story since resale value will not be a concern anymore.? Nonetheless, I still need to visit my local dealers to confirm if the lease rates between 530 and 545 are really similar.? All in all, I enjoy the feeling of prestige driving the top model (excluding M5) within the 5 series with the extra ponies
.? Thanks again
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Depends where you live of course but in the US at least I really don't expect number 5 to become an issue (to the point where it has a material impact on your decision) any time soon. The BMW V8 gets decent mileage given its size/power and V8 power will always be in demand.
09-14-2005, 06:52 AM
#32
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Originally Posted by Dantheman' date='Sep 13 2005, 06:07 PM
Oubviously all 545 owners are bias...530 a t 6.7 have more than enough power for everyday driving ...if you really want a big c...get a M5..why settle for middle of the road???
[snapback]170155[/snapback]
And, to the original poster. I am glad your summary reflects some thinking with the heart/gut. Too many analytics can get in the way. In 1983, I went to Toyota to buy either a Supra or a Celica. The analytics got in the way, and I ordered a Celica. Fortunately, the car had not been on hand because as soon as I got home I realized analytics had overwhelmed the heart. I called immediately and switched to a Supra.
09-14-2005, 05:25 PM
#33
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My Ride: 545iSMGSilver GrayAuburn Dakota LeatherLogic 7 Premium SoundSports Package
Originally Posted by speedracerF4i' date='Sep 13 2005, 08:41 AM
Do the Math, a comparable 530i with auto or smg, premium pack, will only be $6,000 less than 545i.? When it comes time to sell the car, let's say 4 years down the road, the V8 will still command about $3000 more than I6.? So, $3000 difference divided into 48 months, you're only paying $62.50 extra per month for the V8 experience.? A dinner for 3, or a movie for 4.?
If budget is of concern (98% of us), then buy a slightly used 545i for the same price of a new 530i.? You'll be glad you chose the V8 from the get go.
If budget is of concern (98% of us), then buy a slightly used 545i for the same price of a new 530i.? You'll be glad you chose the V8 from the get go.
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There you go the best answer... its not 10K difference... with same options I think the V8 is about $5500 more than the 530. BUT keep in mind the 530 does not have the 124 staggared rims, bigger exhaust, better brakes and Chrome Grill. (*Sept build MY06 might have chrome grills) so for $5500 more you get over 100 more HP and all those other extras...
And gas its 1-2 mpg difference. It cant be THAT much more money unless you drive 1000 miles a day.
09-17-2005, 11:18 AM
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Originally Posted by hpowders' date='Sep 13 2005, 09:54 AM
I leased a 2005 545i for $673 a month on August 1st.
A comparably equipped 2006 530i is going for $690 a month.
And the correct decision is.....
A comparably equipped 2006 530i is going for $690 a month.
And the correct decision is.....
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Thanks
09-17-2005, 09:00 PM
#35
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My Ride: 2004 545i,silver grey metalic, sport/premium package,nav,pdc,chrome style 121,logic7 sound
Originally Posted by speedracerF4i' date='Sep 13 2005, 08:41 AM
If budget is of concern (98% of us), then buy a slightly used 545i for the same price of a new 530i.? You'll be glad you chose the V8 from the get go.
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Wurd....that's what we did. Loaded 04 545i with low miles was the same price as a less equiped 06 530i. The 545i rocks!
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