For some time I had planned on ordering Orient Blue and as you know it has been replaced with Monaco Blue. Anybody know why BMW decided to introduce a new color/name? I've read here that some believe Monaco is a tad darker. Orient seems to have more sparkle especially in the sun.

Also, I've seen some members describe their 530 with Carbon Black. Wasn't this color exclusive to the M cars?

Thanks for the wealth of information this board has provided.

 

I have an '06 in Orient Blue. Great color! I was surprised that the color was discontinued since I think it was the best color and the car looks great in it. The Monaco Blue is just Ok in my opinion. My boss has a Monaco 7 series. I think BMW just likes to mix things up. Some marketing guy justifying his pay. Since Orient is still used on other series .. it may be possible to "special order" yours in Orient. I do remember my dealer telling me a while ago that colors from one line could be ordered for another. As with everything else... it will cost you. Good luck.

 

you might want to talk to "amigo525", he has had both colours

 

Monaco Blue is dark blue color for the facelifted 7 Series and new 3 Series. So for the sake of consistency for colors across the model range, Monaco Blue replaced Orient Blue for the 5 Series as well.

Monaco Blue looks "flatter" and darker than Orient.

 

I wanted orient blue but decided against monaco blue. Monaco blue just doesnt have the sparkle of orient blue.
Picking up my Ti silver 550 this Friday 11/11 in Munich!!!!!

 

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I wanted orient blue but decided against monaco blue. Monaco blue just doesnt have the sparkle of orient blue.
Picking up my Ti silver 550 this Friday 11/11 in Munich!!!!!
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Congrats!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!