Originally Posted By: f355spider
Originally Posted By: Jim 5
Originally Posted By: d00df00d
Originally Posted By: Jim 5
I have been looking at a 550i, but with the fuel economy that the 3.0TT can deliver, while matching the performance of the 550, it seems a no brainer. Meanwhile, the fuel economy on the 535i is darn-near what the 530i was getting.
Minor point: with equal transmissions, the 535i will match the 550i's performance up to moderate highway speeds, but the 550i will pull away after that. Eventually, power always wins.
You're right about the fuel economy, though.
I totally agree. However, these days, with a wife and daughter, I don't find it useful as much any more to have that extra pull above 80 MPH. Now if you chipped the 3.0TT, you are going to get that extra 100 whp and now I think you've exceeded the 550i.
Not to mention the gas.
My view is that the only things the 550i has going for it is that it is the top of the line, it has the v8 torque and more (stock) HP. The best thing of all for me is that it has the intoxicating v8 rumble, which in my books is the key reason still to consider it!
I'll actually wander out of my garage when I see my neighbor pulling out of his so that I can listen to him pull up the hill in his 4.8L v8 powered BMW X5. It just sounds awesome. Nothing compares.
Not only that Jim...have you seen the new 2009 550 Sport? M-tech front and rear bumpers, paddle shift 6 speed Step-tronic transmission (and apprently it shifts decently fast using the paddle shift (for a slush box)). It also comes with newly designed 19" staggered wheels, just a simply stunning overall package!
I have seen it. We have had that set-up in Canada for a few years now. The wheels and M5 front bumper really make it. Of course in Canada the list price is at least 35% more, even when adjusted for f/x differences.
I thought of buying that one, but then considered the 535i given what gas prices are like these days. Also, the 535i is 1/10th behind the 550i in 0-60, and $1300 buys a Vishnu turbo chip that gives the 535i another 100hp.
The 5 series is being re-designed for the 2010 MY and it's rumored to be de-Bangled and going back to BMW's more elegant/conservative design style. There has been much speculation as to the appearance, but nobody has seemed to find an un-cladded/un-camoflaged spy shot. 10 engine options are going to be available (maybe not all in NA) including diesels and up to a 4.4L v8 twin turbo in the non-M5. I've kind of decided to save up for the redesigned 2010. We'll see how it looks when they finally reveal the design!