Thoughts on 530i?

[Mykh]

Hey guys, I'm considering trading in my e46 323i and getting a 2006 or 2007 530i.

I know this is not a 3-series, but I also know there are plenty on these boards that have a 5 series and many more who are well-learned in these cars.

Any words of advice? Thoughts? Suggestions? Warnings?

Thanks. :)

[gnome]

Hey guys, I'm considering trading in my e46 323i and getting a 2006 or 2007 530i.

I know this is not a 3-series, but I also know there are plenty on these boards that have a 5 series and many more who are well-learned in these cars.

Any words of advice? Thoughts? Suggestions? Warnings?

Thanks. :)

Me too, I am looking for a E39 530 with 6 speed (rare).

[Jeff 330CI]

I switched from an E46 to an E60 about 2 years ago, completely different cars! I do miss certain things about the E46 like how nimble and sporty it was, overall I am very happy with the E60.

Pros E60

My car now has some torque (V8)
Much, much faster than my 330CI
Very stable at extremely high speeds
Much more room (seat five very comfortably)
More luxurious (heated rear seats, I-drive, ECT.)
Better looking out of the box (personal preference)
Similar weight to the E46 considering how much bigger it is
Less wind and outside noise especially at higher speeds
I see less of them on a day to day basis compared to the E46

I would suggest the E60 to anyone. Before you buy the 530 I would consider taking the 550 out for a spin, you will not believe the difference in performance.

[Sean@OM]

I switched from an E46 to an E60 about 2 years ago, completely different cars! I do miss certain things about the E46 like how nimble and sporty it was, overall I am very happy with the E60.

Pros E60

My car now has some torque (V8)
Much, much faster than my 330CI
Very stable at extremely high speeds
Much more room (seat five very comfortably)
More luxurious (heated rear seats, I-drive, ECT.)
Better looking out of the box (personal preference)
Similar weight to the E46 considering how much bigger it is
Less wind and outside noise especially at higher speeds
I see less of them on a day to day basis compared to the E46

I would suggest the E60 to anyone. Before you buy the 530 I would consider taking the 550 out for a spin, you will not believe the difference in performance.

Depending on your budget, I would agree with jeff330ci - the 550 is a pretty damn powerfull car and the difference in price (used) from a 530 to 550 is well worth it in my opinion. Either way, any E60 including the 525 is a great vehicle.

Going from an E46 to an E60 makes total sense. Like anything, PPI, service records, Carfax, taking it to a trusted autobody shop for full inspection etc...almost goes without mentioning now, it has been said enough times. I wish you well in your search :cool:

[BMW_E46]

I had a 2006 525i which was returned to BMW last year.

My thoughts:

-you cannot compare these 2 cars since they are totally different.
-525i is actually the "same" engine as the 325ic that i have but tuned differently since it (E60) seems to drive smoother, quicker, quieter and more effortlessly
-lots of room in the rear of the E60
-front is more comfortable
-idrive took some getting used to but is pretty good.
-HEATED STEERING WHEEL! I love this feature.
-the trunk is deceptively large
-very smooth on highway
-great handling
-looks very unique in a good way
-good build quality-frankly the E46 is kind of cheap compared to the E60 (sorry guys)
-did not really have any problems with the car
-very sporty: this is really a Luxury Sports Sedan!
-i loved this car

I traded the E60 in for a MB E-Class and it is really obvious that the E60 is a driver's car and the MB is a "touring" car that is not comfortable being pushed too hard.

[fayraree]

I would consider taking the 550 out for a spin, you will not believe the difference in performance.
agreed...the 550 is a beast.

[blue dragon]

meh, M5 or nothing