Sorry for the mistype in the last post.
here is the right one.


Hello Forum;
I'm pretty new here at the E60. Actually I have joined the forum since I'm looking to switch my current Z4 for a 5.
I have spent the last 5 years driving my old 96', 4 cilinders Z3 and then I have my current one Z4 2.5 (both manual.
There is no question that I'm a BMW guy with good driver profile. I had an 85' 323, also 99'; 323i then a 96' Z3, (my wife a 325i C) and latelly the Z4.
Suddenly we realize at home that we really need more room for friends, moving stuff, clients, etc, and we really need a bigger car.
This is the deal. My wife will keep the Z4 and I'll be getting a 5, (thats why I'm here asking you guys for help.)

My heart is asking for the 550 (I test drove it last week. result: Awesome!) but my brain is telling me take the 530. (both sport package)
Here at the US we have great deals on the leasing option so basically I'll be not buying the car, so the difference is based in the monthly/years payments.

Yes, the 550 has 360 hp and the 530 (with the new engine) 260 and it is only a second slower. So the internal fight I have is between the rational and the emotional having to spend almost $200 more dollars a month making a 3 year lease more or less $7,000 more expensive. (almost the MSRP difference between both cars)

I know I going to miss the beautifull 550 wheels but the rest of the car is almost identical....So..., dear owners: It is really worth it? it is that second so great? Is the V8 such a big different feeling?


Objective comments for both type of owners, will be appreciated.
Thanks a lot and have an Ultimate Driving Day!!!

 

At low speeds, the V8 only feels a bit faster.

On the highway, especially after 80mph, it feels A LOT faster. The V8's torque makes a big difference when you have to pass someone.

Having said that, these are the things i don't like about the V8:
- Although its smoother, it feels less viceral/exciting
- Its stock exhaust is quieter than 530
- Gas mileage is worse
- Car feels less nimble because its heavier

 

I don't know if you will get any objective answer but I'll give you mine;

1. the feeling of a V8 is not simply the 1 sec -you will notice seat of the pants differences and that's not just about clock time. Even the purr of the engine has a value to me.

2. do you value power, in others words, it is so important to you that paying more for power within reason is worthwhile. First you have to value power (some don't care too much -some value the handling and looks more) and then ask how much are you willing to pay for it (that depends on frugality or simply cash flow). I'm willing to pay 5-7K- others may not.

3. I ask myself these questions about the M5- I can afford and desire an M5 but at the moment, my frugal side won't allow me to pull the trigger. I need to work on my attitude

 

The power difference, in my opinion, is even more noticeable at slow speeds because it is the torque that you feel. The 550 has a greater torque/wt ratio than the M5, and it kills the 530 in terms of torque. I was just out in my 550 and that car really pushes you back in the seat. The difference in power and torque between the 530 and the 550 is not subtle, it is huge!

 

Always follow your heart! At least with cars!

 

Get the 550 or you will regret it!

 

Get the 550!! I did......I have an 04 530, and have regretted not getting the V8. Granted, the newer 530s have a different engine, and more HP than mine........you will make ME feel better if you get the 550

 

Yes no doubt about it, get the 550i!

 

I think its not so much the actual MPG difference, but the miles between fill ups. With a relatively small gas tank and poor MPG you will be stopping a lot more to fill up. If we have a gas shortage, you'll be in gas lines a lot more. If it were simply a matter of a few hundred dollars more per year for gas...the 550 would be a no brainer.

 

Check the prices of both configured the same way and see what the real difference is in cost.