BMWSTL

I'm replacing my 2001 540 in the Spring, and am considering ordering either a 550i or (assuming it comes out, which appears likely) the new 535i. Assuming that the 535i will have the same engine as in the 335i, which would you recommend that I order?

The performance of the twin turbo engine in the 3-series is amazing, and I'm having a hard time figuring out if the performance of the 535i with its lighter engine will be either comparable to or "close enough" to the performance of the 550i. Given the likely better gas mileage of the 535i, it may be a better choice.

Lou

LowOrbit

I would choose the 535i.

The "real" hp rating is more like 340 so it is nearly as quick as the 550i. In addition, you get better fuel economy and I believe the 6 cylinder would give you more nimble handling vs. the 550i.

You also get the option of chipping the 535i down the road - I heard close to 400hp should be possible with the turbo engine.

CVTBenhogan

If it concerns a 550, pulling the trigger on the refresh (sight unseen without any apparent engine tweak) would be agonizing for me. Not that I don't trust BMW. Of course all auto decisions for me are torture, its going on three weeks now just selecting winter wheels. That said, I remember the last refresh on the E39 was a step backwards, as edges were rounded more and the rear deck lost its sporty edge. "Pussification" is the word I'm looking for. That could happen with the E60 and its arguable that the original 7 looks better than its refresh.

If the decision involves the inline 6 motor, its a no brainer. Get the 535. The new engine is a huge leap in performance and technology.


CVT Benhogan

Matt BMW California

I wouldnt rule out the 550 quite yet. That kind of engine adjustment doesnt really help 550 sales and its a new engine platform too.

I realize that BMW isnt really known for HP reserves; however, I wouldnt be surprised to see the 550 come out with some additional tuning pushing it the 400hp mark. A little 'tweaking' with the ECU and we could expect to see some pretty good gains there (just ask a company like Dinan!)...it has a LOT of room to move before it starts to canibalize the M class.

Short of enhancing the 550 too they will likely canibalize their 550 sales instead of gaining some new marketshare.

Lucky

Go for the 535i. Every magazines in the world is spending a lot of enthusiastic words for the amazing new twin turbo engine. Moreover, the car will be lighter, more nimble and with a better weight distribution compared to a, V8 powered, 550i.

And, to add cheese on top of your maccaronis, fuel consumption seems to be very good.

swajames

I agree with Matt. Whether the turbo 6 is US bound or not, BMW can't afford NOT to have an V8 engine in the US when MB is selling the V8 E-Class - and they show no sign of stopping these. No matter how good the turbo 6 is it will cost BMW sales if that's positioned as the top model. Look at Acura - they get killed for not having a V8 in the US market (despite their V6 being a great engine). If the 535 comes here, the 550 will stay and will get a power boost to 400+ HP.

CVTBenhogan

Actually, I wouldn't say the fuel consumption is very good. Its good. What 5 mpg better than the V8 on the highway and city? Its was mentioned in an auto test that the motor will drink when pushed.

Do you like V8s?

CVT Benhogan

swajames

You do realize the 550 has a roughly identical weight distribution to the current 530? Both nigh on 51/49 - and in the case of the 530 that's without the extra hardware on the 535.

Ricracing

Well, put.

Less weight front = better handling.

Try also start to understand the environment!

my530i

Go for 335i and have better throttle response.
If choose b/w 535i and 550i, I'd go for 535i. Light weight and better fuel economy.