Diamond

Wow-so I got my first extended stay with a new F10 535i. Got it as a loaner this week with 1100 miles on it, and it is VERY luxurious to say the least. But OMG that thing is a freakin boat that I have never experienced before. Even the old 7 seemed more nimble. It was the sheer size of the thing around the corners and on the freeway and even around town I felt like I was in a tank. This is compared to my 07 e60 sport.

It had nothing to do with the suspension which gripped just fine and had no issues with that. The steering feel also is great and I dont get the complaints some e60 folks have with this.

But it has SAD acceleration. I have a 530 255hp model and it feels slow compared to a 335i that I have had numerous times. I never drove the e60 535i but this 4100 pound F10 had really really sad acceleration that felt no better and even worse as the revs climbed compared to my 530. This is signifigantly worse than the 3 or the e60 because those models made my car feel like a turtle. I cant imagine how it would be without 8 gears (shorter gearing). The 528i must be beyond slow and would not be tolerable.

The car overall though just has no fun to it. Its an amazing amazing family cruiser. So comfy and quiet. The comfort seats are incredible and the cabin design is great. Although I really really dont like the Idrive knob placement. It feels much more on the passenger side than drivers and you have to reach over to get at it. Prob would get used to that obviously.

My conclusion is if you want a tank to protect your family in and cruise on highways this is the car for you. If you want any ounce of a sport saloon-this is no longer your car. Also what I learned is that n55 is a disapointing engine in any 4000 plus vehicle since you dont get the thrust of power like hte smaller cars but you have to deal with the lag (which was signifigant). If I am going to take that level of power, I prefer my NA instant response in my car than that lag with no extra oomph. Either way its a total no brainer why every e60 guy who liked the sporty side of thins more than luxury is going for the M3 or probably f30...no brainer.

IMO you need to go for a 550 to nmake this car worth owning

Petes550i

The F10 535i is by no means slow. Various car magazines tested it at around 5.5-5.8 sec 0-60. I think the size and quietness of the F10 masks some of the speed sensation making it "feel" slower.

You're right though, if you need more speed and power, the 550i is the only way to go.

sevenup_guy

The throttle response on the F10 535i doesn't feel that responsive as the e60 535i. To get that sporty acceleration, the F10 would be the obvious choice but financially out of reach for me. I can't justify paying that much for a sedan.

Petes550i

One thing I should also point out is that it takes some time for the car to adjust to the driver's style of driving. That is, as you drive more aggressively, the computer will see that and adjust throttle response, gear shifts, etc. accordingly. Of course, if you want a more immediate action, you could just put the car into Sport mode and get better results.

If you're a single guy or a couple with no kids and don't need the extra space, a 3 series is the better alternative.

Theo

Or 535d, there is an engine whose characteristics perfectly fit this car. Loads of torque and no hint of slacking higher within the (obviously smaller) power band as the N54/N55 does at at times...

And economy as an added bonus!

dayvboyc

I think you've hit the nail on the head. I've been caught out a couple of times going into corners much too fast because of the refinement.

turboawd

i'm skeptical about your post.
the 2011 535i does 0-60 in 5.6 seconds
the 2006 530i does 0-60 in 6.6 seconds

and for you to call it a boat? :thumbsdown:

TitangrauII530iA

+1

TGII

johnbmwx6

Buy the 550i M Sport and you will be what acceleration is all about.

raleedy

Some opinions posted are so far off the mark they can safely be disregarded.