2006 E60 525 ZSP vs 2006 E90 325 ZSP; Auto

I am in an interesting dilemma.

With the new engine the 2006 525 has a lot of horses, 215, just 10hp less than the 2005 530. The E60 weighs just 100lb more than the E90 and has the same engine. Their 0-60 times are not too far off (7.2 for E90 vs 7.6 for E60).

The gear ratios are also similar but for the final drive which is higher for the
E90 3.73 :1 vs E60 3.91 :1

The 325 was a blast to drive. I have not yet driven a 525.

With the current lease structure, the leases for the 325 and the 525 are very similar.

My wife says get the 525 since it has more space. She concerned that the 325 may not hold enough luggage for our Euro and futher trip especially since we have a toddler with us.

However, since I will be moving on from a Z4, I would like the feel of the 325.

For those of you who have driven the new 2006 525, and the 325, how is the driving experience different?

Reply » 2006 E60 525 ZSP vs 2006 E90 325 ZSP; Auto

I drove to dealer ship in a Z4, then drove the 525 and then the 325.

Unless you are a speedfreak the new E60 525 rocks. Precise handling, enough power, and a bit more space for everyone. The Z4 feels like a go-cart compared to both of two. E90 is also a blast but is a bit darty. The E60 feels more solid but handles very well, especially with the Active Roll Stabilization.

So anyone looking at the E90 should look at the E60 with the Dec lease rates.

The folks driving the the new 530 and 550 must be having a great time!!

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