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330i vs 530i
Ok, I am now reconsidering my 330i order and changing it to a 530i. Actually I am leaning towards a 530i and just need some confirmation. I posted a similar thread on the e90 forum and received helpful feedback. I will probably not be spending this much money on a car again and I want to make a good choice. I plan on keeping for a while also and would like something that is timeless.
I initially didn't consider the 530i because of cost and need. I am going to be using the 330i mainly as a commuter car to and from work. My wife and I already have an SUV. The extra room didn't justify the cost. Also, the 3 Series have had such good reviews, as opposed to the 5. The 330i would definitely be a better driving experience. I drove both the 325i and 330i, but not he 530i. But the 530i appears more luxurious than sporty and has similar power and acceleration to the 330i. Plus, I am in no ways an agressive driver. I would rather have a car that would be a good driving experience in terms of a comfortable ride and have good acceleration when I need it. My typical drive to work is around 30-40 minutes and I go between 35-45 mph.
Now I don't know what to do and would like some input from 5 Series enthusiasts on the e60. Part of the issue is need and the other issue is style. What fits me best? With regard to style, I just turned 40 and don't want to be diriving a car that is age appropriate. I don't want to be viewed as going through a mid life crisis by driving a sports car - Corvette, G-Coupe, etc. I also don't want to be driving a "grandpa car" either. When I went to Lexus I thought the GS was an appealing car, but noticed that a lot of GS drivers were older - not that there is anything wrong with that.
I am considering the following options: Sport, Premium, Park Distance, Comfort, Premium Sound, and Steptronic Trans.
Lastly, I read that the Logic 7 is better on the 530i than the 330i. Is this true?
Thanks in advance!
| | Reply » 330i vs 530i | In manual transmission guise, only .3 secs seperate the 0-60 of the 330 and 530 (6.1 vs 6.4 respectively).
The 530, although being a much larger car, is only 55 lbs heavier than a 330. Seeing them side by side that is almost too hard to believe, but true.
With two small children (4 & 6) I just felt the 330 was a little tight, although it is really fun to drive.
You really cannot go wrong at all with either choice. 
| | Reply » 330i vs 530i | If you are planning on keeping the car, my guess is you will feel you have "outgrown" the 330 in 3 years, whereas the 530 will feel "just right" for a long, long time. 330 is a sportier ride, but sounds like it would be wasted on your commute.
The Logic 7 on the E60 rocks - much better than on the E90 IMHO. Plus, in '07 you can order it without the silly CD changer in the glovebox. Go for Sirius or iPod instead and plop a CD into the dash slot when you want to really enjoy the sound quality.
Also, don't overlook the Comfort seats in the '07 Sport Package. Much more comfortable for a tiring commute like yours.
Finally, think about adding the ventilated seats (sticky at top of thread). In HI that would be a really, really sweet option!
| | Reply » 330i vs 530i | As said, can't go wrong with either one. But also try the 550i. I've owned a 530 ('95, with world's smallest V8), 318ti, 528, and now a 330i ZHP. Each one just gets better and better, but I have ordered my next one ... a 550i. With some seat time in the 550i, I think it's the best car I've ever driven. Enjoy...
| | Reply » 330i vs 530i | Thanks for the input! I think comfort, luxuriousness, and features push me in the direction of the 530i. I agree that at some point space will be an issue. Besides cost, one of the reasons why I leaned toward the 3 was that the extra space of the 5 - little though it is - would be wasted on my ride to and from work. It would be useful on the weekeds. But did that justify the cost premium? Now I am focusing on the style issue. I am not that crazy about the "angel eyes" and tail light. But for me there has been a "wow factor" when ever I've seen a 5. There is also the issue of not wanting a car for an older crowd. I've noticed that the plurality of 5 owners - 2003 data - are post-family. But this may be linked to the issue of income.
| | Reply » 330i vs 530i | From a driving in Hawaii perspective the only reason I drive a 5-an E39--is I got tired of cramming a baby seat and 2 other kids into the back of an 3 series coupe. I think a 3 series is more than enough car for here. I acknowledge the 5 is more luxury oriented but I have not sat in the new 3. Another thing to think about is how cramped most parking around town is. I would not fret about the age factor, I am older than you and would drive another 3 without hesistation.
Good luck no matter what you decide.
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