[HighlandPete]

Originally Posted by tadtaggert

You're making the assumption that the 'software' is 'matched' to the hardware, or that the interaction is only valid with the oem hardware. While I can't tell you that isn't the case entirely, BMW has said that in great part the sensors that 'feed' the software are not sensing specific hardware, there are monitoring/measuring driving conditions independent of the hardware.

Sure I'm assuming at this stage, but when we read that the Adaptive Drive system is developed around the 18" wheel size, that gives me reason to believe we must envisage some compromise, (however small) even from BMW's position and optional wheel sizes, let alone once suspension components are changed.

As I say, I think there is more to learn.

HighlandPete

[tadtaggert]

Originally Posted by HighlandPete

but when we read that the Adaptive Drive system is developed around the 18" wheel size

Where do you read that?

Coming from the 550i, one could assume 19".

[kfiend]

Originally Posted by HighlandPete

That's what I've tried to explain, it won't feel the same.

From my perspective the suspension is doing things I would like, but couldn't get from a passive sport suspension. Then I come from the viewpoint that sporty doesn't need to be hard and in your face all the time. A softer more forgiving chassis can mean faster A - B times and much more comfortable drive at the same time.

I appreciate for track use there are different issues, but for the day to day road car on a mixture of surfaces, Adaptive Drive suits me down to the ground.

HighlandPete

I have to agree with you. A softer more forgiving chassis can sometimes mean more grip and more control over uneven road surface. And I really don't need that in your face hard suspension anymore, that's why I went with the F10.

[pharding]

Car and Driver basically agrees with what many of us have been saying. http://f10.5post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=435767

I am going to ask my CA if can have them retrofit the shorter (and stiffer?) AG Schnitzer springs, available from BMW in Europe, for my 550i with adaptive drive, which will lower the car by 30mm.

[HighlandPete]

Originally Posted by tadtaggert

Where do you read that?

Coming from the 550i, one could assume 19".

It is often commented on in the press. I'm sure I've read it in the BMW releases as well.

From CAR magazine

How does the new Five drive?

Incredibly well. In the Comfort setting the optional dampers do indeed bring new levels of ride refinement to the Five, although the latest E-class is better again. We tested our car on the optional 18s (£665) and, wouldn’t you believe it, it just so happens that these are the actual size that BMW tailored the dampers for – because they’re a middleground between the standard 17s and big-boy 19s.

BTW, the 550i in the UK is specced with 18" as standard.

HighlandPete

[grimlock]

Originally Posted by pharding

Car and Driver basically agrees with what many of us have been saying. http://f10.5post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=435767

I am going to ask my CA if can have them retrofit the shorter (and stiffer?) AG Schnitzer springs, available from BMW in Europe, for my 550i with adaptive drive, which will lower the car by 30mm.

wow i didnt know the e60 has Adaptive drive .. let us know how it is with the Schnitzer springs!

[tadtaggert]

Originally Posted by grimlock

wow i didnt know the e60 has Adaptive drive .. let us know how it is with the Schnitzer springs!

It doesn't, it has an earlier form of Active Steering, changes the turning ratio only, and is not tied to the rear wheels. It has no bearing on EPS whatsoever.

[grimlock]

Originally Posted by tadtaggert

It doesn't, it has an earlier form of Active Steering, changes the turning ratio only, and is not tied to the rear wheels. It has no bearing on EPS whatsoever.

oh sorry u have both e60 and f10

[grimlock]

hi tadtaggert
what with rd springs didnt cut it with you? or u wanted more specifid 'matching' ..?
btw i am thinking eibach springs with upgraded dampers on my stock susp, any advice?
i need the drop, want to max. comfort .. handling would be nice.
thanks