vinm5

thanks !

EBMCS03

525 - 19/28
530 - 20/30 6spd, 20/29 SMG, 19/29 Step
545 - 17/25 6spd, 16/24 SMG, 18/26 Step

EBMCS03

So now are you going to get a 525 to "save gas?"

ro11dice

man, i have yet to reach 29 mpg on the highway.

vinm5

The car I m complating buying is a 525 , although i perfer the 530 or 545 ..its a really sharp looking car at my price point, so i guess i have to take what I get. I guess this will be an advantage .

the pics are posted in one of the subforums.

EBMCS03

Not much of an advantage, if any... people always think less power = more gas efficient... but this isnt the case... and even with the 2mpg difference the V8 doesnt look that bad.

schwim

Here's the way I came to buy a 545i. I was looking at the 530i, stopped by a dealer to take one for a ride. They just happened to have a 545i on the lot. I figured "what the heck" and took it for a spin as well.

I knew immediately that no matter how happy I was with a 530i, I would always have the burning desire for the raw power of the 545i. I decided it was time that I treat myself for my hard work, and splurged. I'm very happy.

My point here is this - if gas mileage is a real concern for you, you may not be looking at the right cars. On the other hand, if you're interested in a car that you can have a great time in, and fuel efficiency is secondary, go with the 545i. The used prices aren't that much more than a similarly equipped 530i from what I've seen.

Either way, 26MPG is pretty darn good on the highway. I've yet to see that since I haven't taken mine on a good road trip yet (tomorrow!!). I'm getting around 18-19 around here, mostly semi-highway with moderate traffic, stop lights every few miles.

bernd22

My new 523i LCI is consuming as low as 34mpg with cruise control 70miles per hour, even when going 90 mph it is still on 28mpg. At Autobahn speed in Germany with 130 miles per hour it is at 24mpg which I think is challenging Diesels while not sharing there disadvantages.
I would very much doubt that this is feasable with an eight cylinder though I would love to ride one but with German fuel prices this is real luxury.

EBMCS03

I've taken the car on some road trips my 545 returned 25mpg fully loaded. 4 people with luggage... on the same trip in my MINI previously yes... MINI... it returned 30mpg. Considering the size and power of the 545 compared to the MINI I think 5mpg highway is worth it to give up.

pointerman

Real world '04 545i

Around town - avg about 20 MPG
HWY - set cruise control for 70 and I get 28 MPG
no cruise control and I get about 26.5 at speeds fluctuating between 65 and 75 MPH.