marvenmassey

Hi folks,
I am more on the E90Post and 1addicts. I used to have a E34 and have always loved the 5 series. I am looking at purchasing in the near future but I want to keep in long term (at least 10 years..) I was looking at 135 originally (b/c I love the stock Msteering wheel, body kit, bigger brakes etc) but I am not very confident in the twin turbo techology for the long term..so I was thinking of the 328 (same price as 135) but am not completely in love with it, the 335 is obviously out for the preivously noted reason. To be frank I cannot afford it brand new 5 series so I got the idea of going for a previously enjoyed 5 series (545 or 530) b/c somone else as already taken the depreciation hit. I love the whole M5 look that many folks have done here. I was interested in your folks opinions on the following...

- keeping a new generation (2004+) long term with iDrive, Navi, Bluetooth and other goodies outside of warranty a bad idea?
- is the 5 series engine in 2004+ (NA engine instead of turbo's..) reliable?
- am I better to get a brand new 135 with all the goodies..configured it comes to $50k, where as a used 545 with approx 60000KM will be approx $30K (328 too slow..)

Any other ideas or comments are welcome...

Thx
Marven

tex_phil

I would personally love a 135 but they are too expensive for what u get and too small. 5 series is the best bargain and ride imo for the price. I say get a 545, you won't regret it! I have a 525, I'll let the other 545 owners chime in. Can't wait to see your new ride if u decide to get one.

zolensky

definitely a 5 series if u need the size and performance. the 330 and up is great for pure driving pleasure. i have a 530xi but it doesn't seem like it has enuff power for its size. the 545 and up is probably a lot better. from what i know (which isn't too much), engine issues aren't much of a problem in the e60's. good luck.

EBMCS03

I personally think the turbos will be fine... If you drive it carefully and make sure it warms up and cools down properly before flogging the car. And you dont sound like you're out there to beat the heck out of the car everyday anyways... so I think the 335 would be fine... I personally prefer the 135 over the 335 but thats because I dont need the room and like the fun factor.

marvenmassey

thx guys...EBMCS, my cousin said the same thing so perhaps I will still look at the 135 b/c I want all the new features. I will probably go for the 2009 with the new iDrive and screen. What's your guys opinion on having Bimmer with iDrive outside of warrenty?

M.

bimmer722

I say go test drive the 135 then find a 545 or 550. Once you drive them I can sure bet your decision will be an easy one. I'm sure you'll end up with a 5 series

EBMCS03

Ooo I dunno...

marvenmassey

Thx for your reply guys..well until I make up my mind I'll continue lurking...there are sweet rides on this fourm

M.