dubfire

hello everyone -

i'm in the market within the next 30 days to buy a 530i or 545i. my questions for all e60 owners who have the sports package. I know the wheels on the 530's are 17's and the 545's are 18's..

How about the height of the sports suspension, are they the same for both models?

I tried doing a search but couldnt find a clear answer and I know the feedback on this forum has been great from all the threads i've seen about the e60's

Thank again!

MitchBMW

First of all, congrats on the near purchase. You are going to be very happy with your choice which ever one you choose.

I believe the ride height of the Sports Suspension is the same in both the 530, and 545.

Anzafin

At least they both seem to have the same part numbers for shock absorbers and springs. So I guess their ride height should be about the same.

dubfire

Thank You all for the quick replies. I had a 07 335i sedan and my lease ending in November and wanted to go with something bigger.

Can I assume the interior options are the same for the sports packages on both models also?

noonehome

The 2004 545 with Sport is about 1/2 inch lower than the rest of the E60s. I would guess the same it true for 2005.

LeuS

If the 530i has sport package it comes with 18" wheels and sport suspension, so there should be no difference with the 545i.

sdg1871

Get the 545. It is much, much faster than the 530. Both cars with sport suspensions will handle like a dream. But they are not closely matched in the power and speed department.

dubfire

Thank You all for the quick replies and suggestions. My initial pick would be a 545i due to the power and V8 engine but I have heard a great amount of members mention that the 530's do have the right amount of power and gas mileage balance.

So I guess I?ll take the best deal I can find within the next month or so. Thanks again everyone, this forum seems to one of the best for the e60?s and I hope everyone had a great start to the NEW YEAR!

redEYEjedi

When I was shopping around I found that the 545's I was looking at were cheaper and better optioned than the 530's at that time. Plus, driving my sister's 530 definitely made me glad I got the 545i in MANY respects. She did not get Sports Package and I did though, so that may be a factor as well.

Aside from ride height you really should test drive both models since everyone here has different tastes in speed, power, and comfort. GL on the search.