I am patiently awaiting ordering a 530 xi. I've read a couple of glowing reviews of the new 2006 330 in Automobile and Road & Track and starting to wonder if I should wait for the 330xi to become available (reportedly this fall).

Other than the size difference, I'm not sure why one would choose a 5- over a 3-series. It appears that all the gadgets available on the 5-series are available on the 3-series. And if the 530 and 330 have the same engine, it would seem the 330 would be "faster" since it has less car to move.

So, other than the interior room, what's the difference between comparably equipped 2006 330's and 530's?

 

besides the fact that the E90 is a horrible disappointment in boring design, the E60 is a better car in every way, imho

 

No sport package (I believe) on E90. Or more exactly - not the same sport package. No dynamic drive.

One could use the same argument for why a 7 series. The 7 has a much faster Idrive and a more luxurious interior. The 5 will still be in almost every way "better" than a 3 series.

 

I wouldn't say one is better than another, it just depends what suits your needs. A 3er and 5er are totally different driving experiences.
IIRC, E60 530 is only about 100lbs heavier than the E46 330, I *think* E90 is heavier than E46 by 44lbs, so speed-wise they should be fairly close.

 

The only BIG disappointment in the E90 is the ugly tail lights, what is the designer thinking??? Makes the car look like a corolla from afar ><

 

I saw it from a different perspective when I looked at the 330, albeit E46. My observation was "holy cr@p, they cost that much money - who's going to buy a 330 when they could get a 5-series for not so much more".

 

YA thats what I thought! The tail lights are UGLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Don't like the tail lights? Look at the E90 in silver or white...the tail lights take on a better shape IMHO. Sport package...I assume you infer that there will be no "active roll stabilization" or Dynamic Drive as they call it across the pond in the E90. It may be that the car is less likely to benefit from it as in the 5 and 7. The smaller the car the less rock and roll?

I've owned the E46 3 and the new E60 5. The 3 is more fun to drive. The 5 is more comfortable, quieter, and more prestigious....I expect the E90 will continue to be the "purest" BMW in terms of driver involvement with the road. If you don't need the extra room or the "image" factor...get the new 3...not the 5.

 

Eh.. you're right... it looks a little better in ligher colors... but still I dont really like it that much.

 

Wait till you see it in person.....you might surprise yourself and REALLY want one!