Yes, I was just going to add the point about the CIC iDrive. My e61 was built in July 09 and has CIC. After using them both, a car with CIC became a requirement for me, and I highly recommend it. Now that I've gotten exposed to coding and flashing modules, I realize I could have done a retrofit, but it's definitely something to consider if you're not interested in the retofit options.

And I also second the recommendation for the 535 vs 530. The ability to tune and mod the N54 and LCI is amazing! I had to sell my 6MT Porsche due to back problems, and there is *never* a day that I miss it since I got the wagon. So many mods, fast, and so fun to drive after installing the KW V3's.

Any thought on options or packages? The 6MT narrows your choices, but I'm sure the forum would be happy to share recommendations (and a link to the ordering guide if I can find it again).

Good luck with your search!

 

So I'll say this, the 530XI definitely is nice and torquey as I've driven oclvframe's E61, and was pleasantly surprised.

Yes, the 535XI is faster, and there's more mods out there for it due to it being the N54T, but at least to have a fair comparison, drive the 530 as well and see how you feel.