So what are the odds that the new V8 will still be badged a 545 vs. a 550???

There is already a thread going about this. Scroll down...or up....depending on who bumps which first :)

I'd actually prefer the 545 designation to remain. That way the current 545 owners will not have the stigma of the "old" model. Also, there is something more satisfying about the palindromic numeration. And there is also the element of surprise.......................................... ........

Interesting point. I never noticed. So the 745 owners couldn't care less?? I don't care either way. I will be getting the new V8 in a couple years. 550 or 545 I will know I am driving and I will feel the difference.

I would prefer that BMW stick with the 545 badge... :)

I just paid a deposit to order a 2006 550i for delivery in the Fall. My sales guy only refered to it as a 550i and the paperwork refers to it as a 550i.

Now that I'm standing in line waiting to get one, I guess I would prefer to see a 550i bagde, but it won't stop me from getting one if BMW still calls it a 545i.

It will be interesting to see which model designation BMW applies to the 5 and 6 series as they both get the bigger engine for '06. Obviously, niether series wil get the face-lift and lot's of new mechanicals like the 7 series, so they may not update the model number. And the engine is a 4.8 liter, sort of in the middle of 545 and 550 designation.

So, we'll see what badge ends up on it. We should know more in 6 to 8 weeks.

The rumour mill is churning but the precedent is quite clear. BMW changed the 745 to a 750 with the new engine and you've got a 99% change they'll do the same with the 5 series. Why wouldn't they? I agree, I wish the 545 would remain but IMO the chances are its history.

You could always get a 550 badge on your 545.. it wouldn't be lieing "too much", lol :blink:

I agree. :thumbsup:

Its too good of a marketing opportunity to move more cars.

I think there is at least one precedent with BMW - 540i badge was kept the same, when the V8 displacement went from 4.0 liter to 4.4 liter. But the 7 series and 5 series are usually kept in synch, 740/540, 745/545, 750/5??.

When/if I super my 545i I'm going to get a badge custom made... 555i perhaps?