Is that the Toledo Blue?? Either way, it loks great. If it is, makes me feel good about my decision since I haven't seen any on the road or even at my dealer. My car is due in about 3 weeks and I can't wait.
Actually, my first payment was June 12. Mike was holding 6% for my loan and said payment was required 30 days but he would have trouble holding the 6% much longer since rates had gone up at least 0.5% in the mean time. I thought you had only about 8 weeks from ordering Feb. 19 to pickup April 17.
Search at google.com for:
bmw european delivery payment "30 days"
and you will see a bunch of sites noting payment is due 30 days in advance.
Earlier I posted that my first impression on my new 540 auto, non sport was a little disappointing -- car was stiffer, less responsive, slower than I remembered from test drives. Wanted to share that it's much better after only a week. Perhaps due to getting used to it, but more likely due to things about the transmission i didn't know about but read about in the owner's manual:
1) the straight automatic transmission in the 540A non sport "adapts" to your driving style. already the shift points seem higher, more like where i want them to be.
2) there appears to be a "hidden" sport mode. although not labeled as such, the owner's manual says that position "4" on the transmission is actually a "sport" setting. I tried it this morning on the way to work and there was a noticeable, positive difference throughout the speed range. There is also a noticeable negative difference in fuel mileage since the shift points are higher throughout the range and it does not go into overdrive. But for most around town driving, it suits me better. I was surprised because in most other cars, "4" would simply mean "non overdrive" mode.
After 1.5 weeks, I am very happy with the 540 non-sport, auto. The power is really great and the comfort and convenience around a city are also nice.
For those debating sport vs. non sport, both are great. However, despite not getting the sport version, I feel the day-day handling of the 540 is sufficiently better than my '92 911. Reason: because the suspension stays glued to rough roads much better and the front-rear balance is also much better. In retrospect, I wish I had traded the Porsche a couple of years ago; different missions, but this is all around a much nicer car for the money.
When a person finances the car through a conventional loan, you make your first payment is in fact one month prior to the ED delivery, which in my mind means that the incept date of the loan was actually 2 months before the ED delivery. Yes, no?
Colt007,
Yes, Mr. Muscles and I went to lunch together last Wednesday; he told me that he was about 345 lbs at the time. Good news, he fit just fine in the Sport Seats of my 530i, with the passengers seat all of the way back that is. ;-)
I recently did a conventional loan for a European delivery. The loan was required to be funded and paid to the dealer 30 days prior to the delivery date in Munich. My first payment on the loan was actually due 45 days after the loan was funded, which was 15 days after I picked up the car. There should not be a payment on the loan before the delivery date, unless the loan was funded more than the required 30 days before delivery.
Went out today and tested 530i with SP and was disappointed in stiff ride. Does 530i without SP ride much smoother? Reading this board it seems that there really isn't much ride difference but dealer didn't have one available to drive today so am left wondering. I may be influenced since currently I drive GS300 that is obviously less sporty than the BMW line but am interested in any thoughts from board members to the difference I found; particularly those with GS experience.
aggie76... Don't feel like anyone else's opinion is worth a plug nickel. Your opinion in the real world is the only one that counts.
Make darn sure to take a sufficient test drive of one without the Sport Package. You and you alone will know what you want, expect, and need. If the Sport Pkg ride isn't for you, only a test drive will tell you if the non-Sport is right. But make sure to test both over sufficient road surfaces. A 15 minute 10 mile test is NOT sufficient. Heck, I don't think a 1 hour 65 mile trip is sufficient. Test as much as they'll let you!
Think most people at this board are enthusiasts. Enthusiasts who are looking for better acceleration, braking, and handling. Enthusiasts tend to prefer a more aggressive, harder ride. Want control and to be in control; Must know what is going on and what one is riding on. Thus most prefer the Sport Pkg. That includes me.
But while I love my 540i6's ride and handling with its standard Sport Pkg, I also thoroughly enjoy my wife's 323iA non-Sport. I just wouldn't buy her's if it was for me. If I'm buying, it has to have the Sport Pkg. But I can both tolerate and enjoy it.
So, get what really meets your wants, expectations, and needs. 'cause if you ain't happy, you'll regret it.
I had a '97 528iA (no sport package available back then) and recently picked up a 540iA with sp. Not exactly comparing apples to apples, but the 540iA does not ride noticably "stiffer". I like to call it a more "controlled" ride. Less float, tighter control of the ride motions. My friend who has a '01 525iA with sp does not like the ride of his car. In fact, his wife hates to ride in the car because of the "stiff ride". They had an Infinity J30 before the BMW. I drove a GS300 last year and found it to be a smoother/floatier (any such word?) ride. Seem like many on the clublexus boards upgrade the springs and shocks to achieve the contolled ride. What I noticed most with the GS was an abundance of road/tire noise. When I test drove the Audi A6 2.7T a couple months ago, I thought that the sport suspension was a bit "stiff". Stiffer than my 540iA. In terms of ride "smoothness", I don't think you will find the BMW (nor any european marque) to be as "smooth" as a Japanese vehicle. I agree with riez, take a long test drive, see if you like it. You don't want to get stuck with a ride that you will regret each time you drive your car.
I have 5 days on a new 530ia sport and I can't wipe the smile from my face. This car is so cool, connected. I can't wait till its broken in to be able to have a little fun. Butt about the deal with harshness. I thought I could live with a 330ia. A dealer in the neighborhood had my color combo so I took my cash and the wife to test drive and then drive the car home (I've owned a coupla 3's so I felt confident that I'd like it). Well, we left without the car because it was so harsh. I called a tuner in I think Huntington Beach CA (to ask about chipping a 525, whow that's another subject) and we talked about my disappointment in the 3. He swore that the suspension "breaks in" it softens up. Has anyone heard this? Point is that I don't think that I want my suspension to soften up. Can it get any better?
I couldn't imagine buying the 5-series without the sport package, but can certainly respect those who choose to pass on it. I found the standard suspension package very good and controlled, but the SP was just a notch higher in terms of precision and control.
Despite my love, I certainly get a reminder of the SP's harshness over sharp road imperfections. I've therefore learned to slow way down for speed bumps, unavoidable potholes, etc., and have found this greatly alleviates the stiff SP setup. And my fiancee, who's about the last person in the world to appreciate a stiff ride, has never complained about it and generally enjoys riding around with me (she's irked only by my occasionally throttle-happy and let's-test-the-tires'-limits maneuvers).
This last weekend, I took my Mom (the sportiest car that she ever owned was a 1985 Eldorado) for her first ride in my new 530i SP. I made it a point of warning her early on that she would not like the ride as I had opted for the Sport Suspension as opposed to the standard setup on my 328i. Before we even got to the West Side Highway, she said, "You call this a stiff ride, I think it feels wonderful."
I think that I had to crank my jaw back into place after that one. ;-)
As I have posted before on this board, I , for one, would not , could not opt for the non- sport suspension. I have a friend two doors down from me who has a 530IA with non-sport. I drive his car and he drives mine. It turns out that the last few times he would rather drive mine so we alternate and that means I have to drive his. The seats in his are not as accommodating the steering wheel is no where as nice, the look is not as good. Believe it or not the ride is NOT better. I much prefer my car to his and he has told me he would rather drive mine. I love the steptronic in "manual" mode. I know the real manual would be a kick but I am totally satisfied with this one. If I lived out of CA I might have to consider getting the Non-sport to avoid the hassle of rims and snow tires but that's another story.... ; )
Have been thinking about the many posts here about ride quality of the 530I with SP and without. It seems to me that it all comes down to the tires, a high performance tire probably has a harder ride than a Grand Touring design such as the Michelin Pilot Primacy. My ride is excellent. I can not complain at all, and I do drive some pretty awful roads with pot holes and irregularities. What do you all think out there? Also, the tire pressure does have something to do with ride quality, eh?
Yes, tires can make a noticeable difference in ride, but I think it's the higher-profile aspect ratio of tires that come with the standard suspension package contribute more to softening the ride than anything else. The softer rubber and different tread design that makes performance tires adhere to the road better play much less of a roll than their typically shorter and stiffer sidewalls.
The varying degree to which people enjoy (or complain about) the car's ride are mostly due, in my humble opinion, to A) personal tastes and preferences, and the roads they drive on. Even a Viper feels like it has a cushy ride if you only drive it on glass-smooth roads in Palm Springs.
Point very well taken, your thoughts and information are well constructed and apply very well. I hadn't even thought about profile issues and sidewall construction. Thanks a lot.
Really appreciate the thoughts and comments on SP vs non-SP. Will go back to dealer in next two days and see if they can find non-SP on lot so I can compare back to back.
Shipo- Thanks for recommending the dealership in Maywood, NJ. I will try to to call Weber sometime next week. I've been able to read more about the euro delivery on the bmw website but I have not been able to find invoice prices for the program(only MSRP).. DO you know where I can find this? Are there anythings you've learned from the euro-delivery program?
I've narrowed the colors down to sterling gray and toledo blue. The options that I would like are: sp, pp, xenons, fold-down rear seats
I'm contimplating the nav system if it is dvd-based- any thoughts on this as well?
You can find a great table showing invoice and MSRP pricing for US and ED at www.eurobuyers.com. Be sure to download the one labeled REVISED 2002 5 SERIES or something like that.
BTW: The current Nav is CD based- possible upgrade to DVD for 2003?
Colors: I'm biased towards Toledo, since I have (and love) it, but the sterling gray looks sharp as well.
Nav: I highly recommend you go to your dealer and ask to test one out (even sitting inside the dealership floor). Then, if you want to see how a good one operates, head over to your local Acura or Lexus dealer and try one of their systems. Much more intuitive interface, plus with touch-screen inputs instead of the annoying single BMW knob. Plus, they're DVD-based and hold a lot more information (plus they don't require swaps for different regions of the country). But, if you drive a lot in areas you're not familiar with, or get lost easily, or just love gadgets regardless of their ease-of-use, you may enjoy it.
Howdy. I am considering a 1997 Seville STS and a 94/95 BMW 540i. Can anyone give any pros or cons of either car? The 540 is RWD and may have limited rear seat room. I may use the car on long trips so comfort for passengers is a consideration. Any feedback appreciated.
Most folks on this forum will naturally gravitate to the BMW over the Caddy, so don't expect a balanced reply. For long road trips, I'm sure both cars will be comfortable, but I suggest you ask your future passengers to help you decide which they prefer. I'd be concerned with maintenance with both cars, so be sure to buy extended warranty coverage if possible. Frankly, for the money, I'd probably instead get a newer VW Passat or something similar, which has as much space as the 540, but will be more reliable and still an enjoyable driver's car.
Thanks guys for the tips- email is olove117@yahoo.com-shipo, can you also send me a number to shoot for as I progress through my dealing?
I have tested the Lexus and Acura nav systems and they are unbelievable but I assumed the 2003 bimmer's would have a dvd-based system. I'm not going to spend $1800 on the "knob" outdated cd-based current nav system... Snagiel, what color is the interior of your toledo blue 5?
All 2003 BMWs will have the DVD nav, but I don't think there will be any changes to the way the system operates, just one DVD for all the US map and points of interests. Also, on the 5 series, the sunroof is standard for 2003 (not part of the PP). No info on how this changes pricing. The car will also get the rear head protection system as I recall.
Did anyone else go to the BMWCCA meeting on 6/15 at BMW NA HQ?
nyca... No, I didn't, but on the same weekend my local State BMW CCA chapter had its annual picnic. Great food (shishkabob) and German beer. Lot of fun. And it is part of our dues. Great deal. Can't say enough good things about BMW CCA! Everyone should join.
Looking to purchase (or lease) a CPO 528. (99' or 00') Would love a new 530 but the $$$'s don't work and I think a new 525 would be underpowered. Anyway, the info on this board is great - I was wondering if anyone could give me a little advice on what to look out for - any do's or don'ts - what to avoid, must have options, any major differences between 99' and 00', etc. Any help is appreciated. Thanks.
I can't decided between Sports Package on a new 530i or not. One of the major deciding factors, believe it or not, is the fact that you can't get the lumbar support with the Sports Package. Can anyone comment on the comfort of the seats for longer trips in SP vs. Non-SP 530's? I think that it is ridiculous that power lumbar is not available on the Sport seats. I wonder if it will be in 2003?
If one of the main considerations for your choice is passenger comfort on long road (interstate) trips, I'd opt for the STS. I think the two cars are for designed for different purposes (read: countries, style of driving, cultures, etc..)
Proud owner of 525iA titanium/black and love it. Would love some recommendations regarding care products from "experts" owners. Specifically, leather care, dash/trim care, preferred wash/wax products. Thanks a ton. Want to keep this thing looking as sweet as it does now for a long time coming.
SP vs. non-SP: Start scrolling up, and you'll find many, many opinions about the sport package (the vast majority of posts here strongly believe in it, and for good reason). While adjustable lumbar support would be a plus (only the M5 has it on its sport seats), I find the fixed lumbar support to be just perfect, and the seats are supremely comfortable for both short and long drives.
Tomorrow night, I take the family to Munich via London, arrive Sunday, and pick up my BMW 530 on Monday.
Then we tour a bit, seeing Munich, Salzburg, Fussen and southern Bavaria, Oberkirch and the Black Forest, Reims, and Paris.
Thanks for the discussion on this board. Special thanks to shipo who recommended a dealer as I was getting frustrated with one who would not negotiate on ED.
I'll let you know how my Buick^H^H^H^H^H non-sport 530 handles roads that will challenge it more than most places I'll drive back in central NJ.
bluewater5, do send ur experience (especially, handling) with ur non-sport 530i. i will be interested definitely, since i am getting mine sometime in july 2nd week, here in bay area.
I hope I get this right, I am doing it from memory:
- DVD nav - rear head protection system - new wheels for the 540 sport pkg (the old E38 740 sport wheels) - a new "M look" package for the 540 - an external input interface on the head unit for an external player - stoptech brakes (maybe, I head this will be on the 03 X5 for sure, not sure for the E39). - sunroof standard, not part of PP
Also, I'm now seeing some stories that the E60 will be available in June 2003 as opposed to September.
A couple of weeks ago, you commented that the winter wheels from my 323i might not fit on my 530i, at least not without shims. As I'm not too knowledgeable about all-things-wheels, I sent a note to tirerack.com, asking if the 16x7.5 ATP Riva rims I bought from them two years ago would work on a 5er. Their reply: "the center bore on the new 5 is larger than the 3 series, so it will not work".
Sounds like your prediction is correct and I'll be buying a new set of winter wheels.
Before I contribute to yet another great year for tirerack.com, does anyone know of a reasonable method of retrofitting these rims onto a 530i, or should I just give it up and buy new ones? Assuming the latter, does anyone have a strong opinion on the best snow tire available these days? I used Blizzak LM-22 225/50/16's on the '3' and they worked pretty well, but the last two winters have been pretty mild and we're due for some real snow in the next year or so, so I won't be skimping on this purchase.
As for my upcoming transition from a 323i to a 530i, the Owner's Circle indicated that my baby (Oxford Grn w/ Stone Gr/Blk interior, SP/PP/CWP/DSP/Xenon/shade) was "born" Wednesday last week, but it's been showing as "produced, not shipped" since. Arrghh! Let's get it on the boat, boys -- doncha know I'm going crazy here? On the other hand, I'm happy to report that I sold the 323i to a private party, who's willing to wait until the 530i shows up to consummate the transaction. No cheesy Mazda rentals for me this time! Life is good...
I did ED in May. My 5-sp non-sp 530i Toledo was a dream over old European roads. Plus, the ride was NOT Buick like AT ALL!
I stayed in the fast lane the entire 1460 mile trip and my non-sp was great. My comfort seats were awesome and I had very little if any back or muscle fatigue (Munich->Lake Como Italy->Milan->Parma->Florence->Pisa->Bologna->Venice->Munich->Frankfurt all in 7 days).
They only advantage I would have with the SP on the trip was speeds over 115 MPH. The non-sp tended to get a little "floaty"... and at the governor limited 128 MPH it was very floaty. But how often will we go that fast here in the US?
This car is still the best handling thing I've ever been in at those speeds.
I do not believe that the SP is a make or break. Much less something that turns the 530i into a Buick. Gimmie a break.
I put the $$ saved from the SP into the comfort seats. Comforts seats are amazingly sublime!!!! If anything can make or break the car's essence... it has got to be those comfort seats.
Do the comfort seats have the adjustable thigh support that the sport seats do? If not, are the only differences between the "regular" seats and the "comfort" seats the power lumbar and articulating upper seat? Or are there other features/construction characteristics that are different between the two? tia, metmdx
1) Anyone out there spend a good deal of time driving both of these cars? Considering purchasing a '00 or '01 540i when the lease runs out on my A6 2.7T. Tough to tell real differences with the teeny 1 mile loop test drive here in Central NJ. HELP! 2) My friend living overseas insists that I can pick up a pre-owned 540i from Germany for significantly less cash (even when factoring in the emmissions changes, etc.) than one would cost here. I don't believe that this is true. What up?
Did you go to King BMW? When I test drove there, I was just getting up to 55 when the salesman told me to take the next exit. I ended up buying elsewhere.
Have lots of fun on your trip, the ED thing makes a European trip so much more special than a hop over the pond and a rented Fiat Uno Diesel. ;-)
Musher2,
Bummer on the wheel thing. :-( You might want to talk to somebody at your local machine shop, they might well be able to enlarge the center bore to fit your new 5er.
As for your new baby, check http://www.wlna.com and see if you can check its status, you might find that it is already on a ship.
Comfort seats: You almost got all the differences down. In addition, though, the comfort seats have less pronounced side bolstering (both on the seat back and bottom). They are therefore more comfortable at rest, but do provide less lateral support during faster cornering speeds.
A6 2.7T: You already own one, so I'm sure you're a much better judge of what's good and not good about it, but I test drove the 2.7T (the dealer only had an automatic to test drive) against my 530 last fall. I found the turbo powerplant very powerful (although its delivery was less linear than the 530i's), and the interior detailing was incredible. But I thought the ride wasn't as composed as the 530i sport's, and the steering was more vague. Not bad, of course, but simply not as scalpel-like as the 530's. And when I saw Consumer Reports' numbers about the A6's poor reliability, I scratched it off my list.
German pre-owned 540: Unless you're talking about a US-spec car that belonged to some military or diplomat over in Germany (and you have these credentials as well), I highly doubt such a transaction is possible. If you intend to drive the car here, it has to be a US-spec car, otherwise it's legally not permitted to drive on public US roads. And, of course, you wouldn't be covered by any BMW warranty. In my opinion, this isn't possible or even desireable.
Comments
Search at google.com for:
bmw european delivery payment "30 days"
and you will see a bunch of sites noting payment is due 30 days in advance.
Colt.
1) the straight automatic transmission in the 540A non sport "adapts" to your driving style. already the shift points seem higher, more like where i want them to be.
2) there appears to be a "hidden" sport mode. although not labeled as such, the owner's manual says that position "4" on the transmission is actually a "sport" setting. I tried it this morning on the way to work and there was a noticeable, positive difference throughout the speed range. There is also a noticeable negative difference in fuel mileage since the shift points are higher throughout the range and it does not go into overdrive. But for most around town driving, it suits me better. I was surprised because in most other cars, "4" would simply mean "non overdrive" mode.
After 1.5 weeks, I am very happy with the 540 non-sport, auto. The power is really great and the comfort and convenience around a city are also nice.
For those debating sport vs. non sport, both are great. However, despite not getting the sport version, I feel the day-day handling of the 540 is sufficiently better than my '92 911. Reason: because the suspension stays glued to rough roads much better and the front-rear balance is also much better. In retrospect, I wish I had traded the Porsche a couple of years ago; different missions, but this is all around a much nicer car for the money.
Colt.
Colt.
When a person finances the car through a conventional loan, you make your first payment is in fact one month prior to the ED delivery, which in my mind means that the incept date of the loan was actually 2 months before the ED delivery. Yes, no?
Colt007,
Yes, Mr. Muscles and I went to lunch together last Wednesday; he told me that he was about 345 lbs at the time. Good news, he fit just fine in the Sport Seats of my 530i, with the passengers seat all of the way back that is. ;-)
Best Regards,
Shipo
Hopefully this helps.
Make darn sure to take a sufficient test drive of one without the Sport Package. You and you alone will know what you want, expect, and need. If the Sport Pkg ride isn't for you, only a test drive will tell you if the non-Sport is right. But make sure to test both over sufficient road surfaces. A 15 minute 10 mile test is NOT sufficient. Heck, I don't think a 1 hour 65 mile trip is sufficient. Test as much as they'll let you!
Think most people at this board are enthusiasts. Enthusiasts who are looking for better acceleration, braking, and handling. Enthusiasts tend to prefer a more aggressive, harder ride. Want control and to be in control; Must know what is going on and what one is riding on. Thus most prefer the Sport Pkg. That includes me.
But while I love my 540i6's ride and handling with its standard Sport Pkg, I also thoroughly enjoy my wife's 323iA non-Sport. I just wouldn't buy her's if it was for me. If I'm buying, it has to have the Sport Pkg. But I can both tolerate and enjoy it.
So, get what really meets your wants, expectations, and needs. 'cause if you ain't happy, you'll regret it.
Despite my love, I certainly get a reminder of the SP's harshness over sharp road imperfections. I've therefore learned to slow way down for speed bumps, unavoidable potholes, etc., and have found this greatly alleviates the stiff SP setup. And my fiancee, who's about the last person in the world to appreciate a stiff ride, has never complained about it and generally enjoys riding around with me (she's irked only by my occasionally throttle-happy and let's-test-the-tires'-limits maneuvers).
I think that I had to crank my jaw back into place after that one. ;-)
Best Regards,
Shipo
sport suspension. I have a friend two doors down from me who has a 530IA with non-sport.
I drive his car and he drives mine. It turns out that the last few times he would rather drive
mine so we alternate and that means I have to drive his. The seats in his are not as accommodating
the steering wheel is no where as nice, the look is not as good. Believe it or not the ride
is NOT better. I much prefer my car to his and he has told me he would rather drive mine.
I love the steptronic in "manual" mode. I know the real manual would be a kick but I am totally
satisfied with this one. If I lived out of CA I might have to consider getting the Non-sport
to avoid the hassle of rims and snow tires but that's another story.... ; )
530I with SP and without. It seems to me that it all comes down to the
tires, a high performance tire probably has a harder ride than a Grand
Touring design such as the Michelin Pilot Primacy. My ride is excellent.
I can not complain at all, and I do drive some pretty awful roads with
pot holes and irregularities. What do you all think out there? Also, the
tire pressure does have something to do with ride quality, eh?
The varying degree to which people enjoy (or complain about) the car's ride are mostly due, in my humble opinion, to A) personal tastes and preferences, and
well. I hadn't even thought about profile issues and sidewall construction. Thanks a lot.
I've narrowed the colors down to sterling gray and toledo blue. The options that I would like are: sp, pp, xenons, fold-down rear seats
I'm contimplating the nav system if it is dvd-based- any thoughts on this as well?
As always, thanks in advance!
BTW: The current Nav is CD based- possible upgrade to DVD for 2003?
Best Regards,
Shipo
Nav: I highly recommend you go to your dealer and ask to test one out (even sitting inside the dealership floor). Then, if you want to see how a good one operates, head over to your local Acura or Lexus dealer and try one of their systems. Much more intuitive interface, plus with touch-screen inputs instead of the annoying single BMW knob. Plus, they're DVD-based and hold a lot more information (plus they don't require swaps for different regions of the country). But, if you drive a lot in areas you're not familiar with, or get lost easily, or just love gadgets regardless of their ease-of-use, you may enjoy it.
I have tested the Lexus and Acura nav systems and they are unbelievable but I assumed the 2003 bimmer's would have a dvd-based system. I'm not going to spend $1800 on the "knob" outdated cd-based current nav system... Snagiel, what color is the interior of your toledo blue 5?
Did anyone else go to the BMWCCA meeting on 6/15 at BMW NA HQ?
nyca, I'm curious, do you remember any other changes for '03?
Cleaning supplies: Feel free to peruse my cleaning supply inventory at http://members.roadfly.com/snagiel/Cleaning.xls.
Then we tour a bit, seeing Munich, Salzburg, Fussen and southern Bavaria, Oberkirch and the Black Forest, Reims, and Paris.
Thanks for the discussion on this board. Special thanks to shipo who recommended a dealer as I was getting frustrated with one who would not negotiate on ED.
I'll let you know how my Buick^H^H^H^H^H non-sport 530 handles roads that will challenge it more than most places I'll drive back in central NJ.
-Bob D.
Colt.
do send ur experience (especially, handling) with
ur non-sport 530i. i will be interested definitely,
since i am getting mine sometime in july 2nd week,
here in bay area.
have fun.
- DVD nav
- rear head protection system
- new wheels for the 540 sport pkg (the old E38 740 sport wheels)
- a new "M look" package for the 540
- an external input interface on the head unit for an external player
- stoptech brakes (maybe, I head this will be on the 03 X5 for sure, not sure for the E39).
- sunroof standard, not part of PP
Also, I'm now seeing some stories that the E60 will be available in June 2003 as opposed to September.
Sounds like your prediction is correct and I'll be buying a new set of winter wheels.
Before I contribute to yet another great year for tirerack.com, does anyone know of a reasonable method of retrofitting these rims onto a 530i, or should I just give it up and buy new ones? Assuming the latter, does anyone have a strong opinion on the best snow tire available these days? I used Blizzak LM-22 225/50/16's on the '3' and they worked pretty well, but the last two winters have been pretty mild and we're due for some real snow in the next year or so, so I won't be skimping on this purchase.
As for my upcoming transition from a 323i to a 530i, the Owner's Circle indicated that my baby (Oxford Grn w/ Stone Gr/Blk interior, SP/PP/CWP/DSP/Xenon/shade) was "born" Wednesday last week, but it's been showing as "produced, not shipped" since. Arrghh! Let's get it on the boat, boys -- doncha know I'm going crazy here? On the other hand, I'm happy to report that I sold the 323i to a private party, who's willing to wait until the 530i shows up to consummate the transaction. No cheesy Mazda rentals for me this time! Life is good...
I did ED in May. My 5-sp non-sp 530i Toledo was a dream over old European roads. Plus, the ride was NOT Buick like AT ALL!
I stayed in the fast lane the entire 1460 mile trip and my non-sp was great. My comfort seats were awesome and I had very little if any back or muscle fatigue (Munich->Lake Como Italy->Milan->Parma->Florence->Pisa->Bologna->Venice->Munich->Frankfurt all in 7 days).
They only advantage I would have with the SP on the trip was speeds over 115 MPH. The non-sp tended to get a little "floaty"... and at the governor limited 128 MPH it was very floaty. But how often will we go that fast here in the US?
This car is still the best handling thing I've ever been in at those speeds.
I do not believe that the SP is a make or break. Much less something that turns the 530i into a Buick. Gimmie a break.
I put the $$ saved from the SP into the comfort seats. Comforts seats are amazingly sublime!!!! If anything can make or break the car's essence... it has got to be those comfort seats.
Patelli
tia,
metmdx
1) Anyone out there spend a good deal of time driving both of these cars? Considering purchasing a '00 or '01 540i when the lease runs out on my A6 2.7T. Tough to tell real differences with the teeny 1 mile loop test drive here in Central NJ. HELP!
2) My friend living overseas insists that I can pick up a pre-owned 540i from Germany for significantly less cash (even when factoring in the emmissions changes, etc.) than one would cost here. I don't believe that this is true. What up?
Have lots of fun on your trip, the ED thing makes a European trip so much more special than a hop over the pond and a rented Fiat Uno Diesel. ;-)
Musher2,
Bummer on the wheel thing. :-( You might want to talk to somebody at your local machine shop, they might well be able to enlarge the center bore to fit your new 5er.
As for your new baby, check http://www.wlna.com and see if you can check its status, you might find that it is already on a ship.
Best Regards,
Shipo
A6 2.7T: You already own one, so I'm sure you're a much better judge of what's good and not good about it, but I test drove the 2.7T (the dealer only had an automatic to test drive) against my 530 last fall. I found the turbo powerplant very powerful (although its delivery was less linear than the 530i's), and the interior detailing was incredible. But I thought the ride wasn't as composed as the 530i sport's, and the steering was more vague. Not bad, of course, but simply not as scalpel-like as the 530's. And when I saw Consumer Reports' numbers about the A6's poor reliability, I scratched it off my list.
German pre-owned 540: Unless you're talking about a US-spec car that belonged to some military or diplomat over in Germany (and you have these credentials as well), I highly doubt such a transaction is possible. If you intend to drive the car here, it has to be a US-spec car, otherwise it's legally not permitted to drive on public US roads. And, of course, you wouldn't be covered by any BMW warranty. In my opinion, this isn't possible or even desireable.