The engine on both models was upgraded earlier in the year (the old 525i engine produced 192hp) and the upgrade substantially improves the performance of both models.

The new 525i is reasonably brisk so I don't think you will be dissapointed. I however went for the 530i in the end as I decided I didnt want to end up in "what if ?" land.

In terms of depn going for the next model up is always better than going for a lower model with loads of options. Here in the UK the only options you get any kind of return on are - leather, navigation and the autobox. The rest of the options list may make your car easier to sell but wont get you significant extra $$. I did load my car up but that was purely based on what I couldnt live without rather than resale return.

 

I need to CHANGE my opinion I posted yesterday. Politics, I said go with the 530i. Well, I know say go with the 525i. I test drove a 2006 525i last night and WOW! I was really impressed. It moves! And, the handling is pure BMW handling. I was going to go with a 530i, but I am now going to go with the 525i. I am also going to save $4500 with the 525i price when taxes are included. Hey, $4500 is $4,500. In terms of resale value, I have looked at a number of sources, and they are identical; no difference whatsoever.

I also drove the 530i, it is faster, no question. But, geez, the 525 is plenty fast, and has plenty of pickup. I was just as impressed with the 525i as I was with the Infiniti M35. I test drove the M35 last night as well, and the 525i felt quicker, it certainly handled better. So, I think it is a great buy!

Also, if you are debating about options, and price comes into play, as it does with most of us, I would say you are better off with a 525i that comes with a sport package, rather than a 530i that does not come with a sport package. The ARS is AWESOME. Good Luck!

 

Go 550i if you have money. Otherwise pick 525i. This year's 530i is not worth it in my book.

 

I just went through this very comparison. For me, it was either a 525i, 530i, or 05 545i. The 530i won out. Driving stick, it just felt more substantial then the 525i stick. Mostly in the 40-60 mph, the 525i felt like it was not as strong as the 530i. 545i felt just as fast if not faster than the 530i at this speed. The 550i was not an option, as its 65000 loaded, where as a 530i loaded is 55000. In my opinion, 4500 is not a huge step up from a 525i to 530i. It really makes the 530i look attractive, since you get a more powerful engine, xenons, and other things specific to the 530i. If you can afford a lease or a purchase of the 550i, its the ultimate. But very pricy. Since the 545i was no longer being produced, i opted for a 530i. The Idrive updates and Stop/Start button, and other drivign enhancements make the 2006 530i much more attractive than 2005 with the 225 hp. Havign close to 260 HP is nice for a 5. I also went sport, nav, cold, sirius, verses stripped 545i. Sport will make either 525i or 530i. Can you wait for 535i? At that point, the 530i will be the base model.

So I say, don't regret not upgrading to the middle child now. Theres a reason why the sell more 525i's than 530i. 530i in my opinion is just the right dose of power for the Inline 6. Why settle for a less powerful version of BMW's acclaimed Inline 6? IF you want V8 go 550.