Would you order a Facelifted 550i or 535i?
#1
Contributors
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: St. Louis, MO USA
Posts: 416
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
My Ride: 2008 550i ZSP with Style 167 wheels
![Default](https://5series.net/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
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
![Help](https://5series.net/forums/images/smilies/imported/help.gif)
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
#2
Senior Members
Join Date: Sep 2005
Location: Arizona
Posts: 734
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
![Default](https://5series.net/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
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.
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.
#3
Senior Members
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Chicago
Posts: 977
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
My Ride: 2006 BMW 550i "Ben Hogan's 5 Iron"
SilverGrey/Black Sport, L7, NAV, CW, AS, Split FR
2003 Audi A4 3.0 CVT "Part of the Moniker"
Silver/Ebony, Prem, CW, Star 17s
![Default](https://5series.net/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Originally Posted by BMWSTL' post='356815' date='Nov 16 2006, 12:20 PM
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
![Help](https://5series.net/forums/images/smilies/imported/help.gif)
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
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
![Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)](https://5series.net/forums/images/smilies/imported/rolleyes.gif)
#4
Senior Members
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: Livermore, California
Posts: 310
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
My Ride: 2006 550i
Build date 11/2005
options include:
cold weather package/ convenience package/premium sound package/ sport package/sunshades/Navigation/ V3 cradle/ OE 166 wheels/M-tech upgrade/M rear spoiler/ racemesh m-tech grill/racemesh kidney grills/M5 mirrors/M5 steering wheel/ HID fog light conversion/ M5 SMG paddles
![Default](https://5series.net/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
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.
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.
#5
Senior Members
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: Genova, Italy
Posts: 309
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
My Ride: 535d Eccelsa, 05 2005 (built 12-04), sapphireblack, beige dakota leather, electric seats, poplar wood trim, sport suspension, 124 style 18" alloys, differentiated f/r runflat tyres, steptronic, adaptive light control, bi-xenon, BMW PRO nav, cd, cd changer, electric-foldable and automatic antidazzle rear mirrors, automatic antidazzle internal rear mirror, adjustable central armrest, BT, Hifi Professional LOGIC7 , extended functions aircon, full lighting package, green comfort fascia on windshield, PDC park distance control, voice control, CPT9000 car phone, BMW Assist, BMW On-line, BMW Tracking, alarm system, programmable remote controls.
![Default](https://5series.net/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
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.
And, to add cheese on top of your maccaronis, fuel consumption seems to be very good.
#6
Contributors
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: San Jose, California, USA
Posts: 4,119
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
My Ride: 2008 Porsche 911 Carrera S Convertible. Midnight Blue, 6 Speed.Retired - 2007 997 Carrera S, Midnight Blue, Grey leather, premium audioRetired - 2007 550i, Monaco Blue over Beige, Navigation, Logic 7, Cold Weather Pack, Comfort Access, Sport Package
Model Year: 2008
![Default](https://5series.net/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
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.
#7
Senior Members
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Chicago
Posts: 977
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
My Ride: 2006 BMW 550i "Ben Hogan's 5 Iron"
SilverGrey/Black Sport, L7, NAV, CW, AS, Split FR
2003 Audi A4 3.0 CVT "Part of the Moniker"
Silver/Ebony, Prem, CW, Star 17s
![Default](https://5series.net/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Originally Posted by Lucky' post='356831' date='Nov 16 2006, 12:44 PM
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.
And, to add cheese on top of your maccaronis, fuel consumption seems to be very good.
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
#8
Contributors
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: San Jose, California, USA
Posts: 4,119
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
My Ride: 2008 Porsche 911 Carrera S Convertible. Midnight Blue, 6 Speed.Retired - 2007 997 Carrera S, Midnight Blue, Grey leather, premium audioRetired - 2007 550i, Monaco Blue over Beige, Navigation, Logic 7, Cold Weather Pack, Comfort Access, Sport Package
Model Year: 2008
![Default](https://5series.net/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Originally Posted by Lucky' post='356831' date='Nov 16 2006, 08:44 AM
Moreover, the car will be lighter, more nimble and with a better weight distribution compared to a, V8 powered, 550i.
#9
Contributors
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Helsinki, Finland
Posts: 7,790
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
My Ride: My ex-ride: EU '08 LCI 520dA. Space Grey, Sport Seats in Black Leather/Fabric Anthracite, Sport Steering Wheel, A/C with Extended Features, Hi-Fi Speakers, Cup Holders, Cruise with Braking function, Folding Rear Seats, Xenons, Park Distance Control.
![Default](https://5series.net/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Originally Posted by LowOrbit' post='356819' date='Nov 16 2006, 06:24 PM
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.
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.
![Thumbsup](https://5series.net/forums/images/smilies/imported/thumbsup.gif)
Less weight front = better handling.
Try also start to understand the environment!
![Whistling](https://5series.net/forums/images/smilies/imported/whistling.gif)