As many of you know, I am experiencing transmission issues that are getting progressively worse. So rather than spend $6K to $7k on a new trans, I am contemplating trading my car in for a F10 lease. I took a trip down to my local dealer and took a 535i out for a spin. YUCK.


so lifeless. the steering, the suspension, the fit & finish. i felt like i was in a big body Ford Taurus. I dont know if thats a huge credit to Ford or a huge discredit to BMW but it was a crappy driving experience. the 535i engine is severely underpowered for such a large car. with only 300hp via twin turbos, i found that the power just wasnt there as quickly as i wanted it, and the engine whine when i pushed her was unsavory.

the suspension was not tight, very loose. i hugged corners like a bread delivery truck. is this the new direction of BMW? was this an isolated incident? did i just get a bad test car?


right now im thinking about going the E60 M5 route....possibly an 06 or 07.....ive seen them priced in the LOW 30k range lately with roughly 50k miles....and yes ive researched the VANOS issues and SMG pump issues...but right now seems like the only way to go.

id appreciate all thoughts and feedback esp on the F10

 

The F10 is capable tourer and a weekend car. Emphasis is on the total experience (passenger comfort, infotainment, safety) and not just the driving experience. For a dedicated daily driver, I suspect the 2012 F30 comes closer to the driving experience you are seeking.

 

For the money get the base 550 if you had to go new. its 8k difference and you get 100 more HP and torque. Plus I think the I6 is one turbo dual function instead of twin turbos like the early E60's had. The M5 E60 is a monster but 2 things will increase with out a doubt are gas usage & Insurance. I still think 60k is to high for these cars

 

I Had one as a rental and felt exactly the same way.

 

I concur regarding cornering and steering feel - I had a chance to drive F10 528, steering was completely dead, no feedback at all, cornering reminded me a rented Buick regal, the car was sagging deeply on a side even at low speeds.
Fit and finish looked fine to me (except may be trunk door), and I liked seats and ergonomics more than E60. The engine was lively too.
But, yes, overall it is not a BMW fans got used to.

I would get last production year E60 550i especially one with a stick, tips have horrible reliability.