FRANK970

After a large amount of research (Thanks E60.net), I finally placed my order. I live in Vancouver so some of our order options are different than US. I thought I would share my choice and listen for comments.

2008 535i Carbon Black Metallic, Black Dakota Leather, Black Diamond Trim,
M Sport Package -- Anthracite roofliner, 135M wheels, Shadow Line, M Aerodynamic Package, M Multi-function Leather Sport Steering Wheel, M Sport Suspension, Sport Seats (Replaced by Comfort in Premium Package)
Premium Package -- AD mirrors (ext. & int.), Front Comfort Seats, Heated Rear Seats, LOGIC7, PDC w/ VD, Power Folding Mirrors, UGDO
USB Audio Integration

August production, in Vancouver end of September.

Cost was an issue for me. I wanted the 550 but could not justify (afford?) the $5500 over 3 year lease. Four door M3 next. Not so much for the engine, but rather the 172 wheels. I was surprised at the smooth power of the TT, but you do need to get up in the revs. I wasn't planning on the premium package when I went in the first time but the comfort seats sold me right away. Those are really nice.

My first issue is dealing with snow tires. This is my daily driver and I can't be stuck on the few days of snow we get each year. My thoughts are to exchange my stock run flats for dedicated snows (Bridgestone Blizzak LM-25), and purchase a nice summer combo around an affordable 20" rim. Any suggestions.

Now I wait and read about your cars. This site is really good!
Thanks,

westcoast550

For the 2 or 3 days of snow we get just take the bus or taxi , by the time you get a good set of summer tires and wheels you could could be within spitting distance of the 550 from $$ pov.

Cheers

merklebob

live in seattle and considering getting another set of mich pilot a/s. put a set on my audi [quattro] and they held the traction very well. dont get the pzero. there're a real mushy ride. turn with them and then wait for the reaction.

iversonm

Congrats on the order.

For the snows, you have two choices (from my memory, so I might be a bit off): 225/50R17 or 245/40R18.

While the 18's will look better, the narrower 225 tires will perform better in the snow. I've used LM-25's on my 3er for the last two years, and I'm quite happy with their performance. A true "Q" rated snow will do better in snow and ice, but will give up more in dry conditions.

FRANK970

Westcoast 550 -- you are right to some degree. I live in Anmore so bus or taxi is really not an option. If my car can't get us around the whole family is trapped. Not really sure how to address the tire issue. I bought through Brian Jessel. I am going to try and request that they exchange the stock RF for a dedicated winter at delivery. Then I just need to buy a summer set, this will hopefully improve looks and performance over the stock RF. Your pov is appreciated.

SSBaronM5

Congrats...! Just placed an order myself....gonna make a post

westcoast550

First of all congratulations ! Jessel is the only place to buy in VCR they will take care of you all the way. I know the Sales Mgr very well . In fact we are entertaining him and his family up Indian Arm on Sunday. I'll get the scoop on how to achieve what you want . In the meantime research the different wheel styles which you like.

Cheers

FRANK970

I am looking forward to dealing with Brian Jessel. We bought my wife's and my dad's BMW through Parkshore but our salesperson has moved on. Brian Jessel appears to be really good. What I am hoping to get from Brian Jessel is them to take my stock RF's and exchange for dedicated winters (with hopefully some form of credit). Then I will buy, if good pricing negotiated, Style 167's with summers. That will give me a unique looking 535 for 8-9 months of the year and good winter traction. Any help you could give would be hugely appreciated.
Thanks,

Ricracing

I would go for a in October, genuine Dingolfing-plant, EU, built one.

The BMW MY changes in August!