2008 550i vs. 535i Sport Package Cars
03-13-2007, 01:13 AM
#101
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Yeah I personally would pick 535i with Sport package instead of 550i, mainly due to 535i's lighter front end and probably less fuel consumption. I wouldn't be able to detect the performance difference on everyday use.
03-13-2007, 01:14 AM
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Originally Posted by aybeesea' post='402155' date='Mar 13 2007, 12:08 AM
So how many $$$$'s separate the "few" from the "masses"? $10k?
ABC
ABC
03-13-2007, 01:19 AM
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Originally Posted by heezy545i' post='402180' date='Mar 13 2007, 09:14 AM
Other than the actual dollar amount, I think he was saying that some people buy for the badge and perceived prestige. For these individuals, the 550 would get the nod regardless of the performance or modding potential.
Isn't it the case that prestige and affordability are linked?
What surprises me is the (apparently) slim price differential between the 535i and the 550i.
Hmmm...
ABC
03-13-2007, 01:50 AM
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Truthfully though, most of these cars, especially the e60s will remain completely stock. We may look at the potential of the 535 on this forum, but most buyers in the real world will probably not concern themselves with it. I'd argue that the typical buyer/owner of a 550, will look at the '08s no differently then they did past years. Meaning that in their eyes, a 535 will probably be no different then the past 530s. On paper, the 550 has 60 more hp and 60 more ft-lb of torque. Many buyers will simply base their decision on that. And don't forget, many buy for the badge and prestige, so in that regard, the 550 holds more weight.
03-13-2007, 01:51 AM
#105
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Originally Posted by aybeesea' post='402181' date='Mar 13 2007, 02:19 AM
Isn't it the case that prestige and affordability are linked?
What surprises me is the (apparently) slim price differential between the 535i and the 550i.
Hmmm...
ABC
What surprises me is the (apparently) slim price differential between the 535i and the 550i.
Hmmm...
ABC
From what I remember, the price differential is roughly the same between the past models, 550/530 and 545/530. Depending on options, I believe the price difference was around 8k between the two models.
03-13-2007, 04:24 AM
#106
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My Ride: 2005 545, Titanium Gray II, 6 Spd, CWP, Sat, LPP Laser Defense, V1 (hard-wired), iPod, 38% ceramic tint, CDV delete, H&R Street Performance Coil Overs, Forced Air Induction, DriveData Pro Camera System (4 cams), M5 Front Bumper
Originally Posted by aybeesea' post='402155' date='Mar 13 2007, 03:08 AM
So how many $$$$'s separate the "few" from the "masses"? $10k?
ABC
ABC
I believe it's an issue of practicality and/or image. For instance, I live in a very hilly area and have always preferred BMW's V8's because of the extra torque. However, were I to move a few hours south of my current location, the land is very flat and I'd say a 550 would be a "waste" in a sense. It would be unnecessary. That decision for me was - until now - also made in the world of 540/545 versus 525/528/530. Now, with the advent of the 535 stateside, there really isn't much difference between the 535 and 550. The differences are - IMHO - more cosmetic and personal preference oriented.
Example: I don't care how smooth the 535 engine is, my money is betting that the engine in the 550 will be "smoother." I'd call that a cosmetic difference. Some people care. Some people don't.
On a similar note, you can pick up an M-tech kit for the 535, painted and delivered for $2k. It's now included on the 550 sport. Which is a better value? Everyone has a different opinion.
19" wheels. Do you want 19" wheels? Again, some people are turned on by this and some don't care. And again - as another point - where I live the roads here suck. I'm not so sure that I would want 19's. I've already experienced replacing an 18 on my old 545 thanks to living in pothole central. [side comment for anyone who would quip back that I'm supposed to avoid them, I do my best. This incident in particular was at night with no street lights, a 4 foot wide hole, and rush hour traffic. Hard to avoid that one.]
RR
03-13-2007, 04:48 AM
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Originally Posted by Road Runner' post='402203' date='Mar 13 2007, 12:24 PM
If one can afford a loaded 535, they ought to be able to afford a 550.
I believe it's an issue of practicality and/or image.
I believe it's an issue of practicality and/or image.
ABC
03-15-2007, 06:18 AM
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My Ride: 2004 545i 6 spd Sports Package | NAV | PDC | Logic 7 | BT retrofit | SW V13.3
The difference in like optioned cars is $7,000. The 535 does not come with premium package std. I got the 545i because in 2004 the difference between the 530 and 545 was huge in the performance area. I live in an area with very bad roads. The RFs on the 545 are a killer. Although they are 19", no RFs on the 550i. I really have to see how this ride feels. If I like it then 550 for me. I won't wait until October for a 535 6spd.
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