[JK479]

I had the opportunity to drive both the 35i and the 50i back to back.

It is extremely difficult to figure out which car i want. I am worried about the car being underpowered. On paper, the 100 hp and 150 lb of the v8 makes me think 50i all the way. In real driving, what i felt was the car in first gear had serious more grunt than 35i which was peppy on the rev.

I love the INLINE 6 idea. I love RWD. I love standard transmission. Will i love V8/rwd/standard? Will it be the same kinship I've had with previous BMWs? Also, automatic is out of the question for me personally. I need the standard shift on this 5. I also ruled out the 3 series as I want the latest and greatest. I would have loved the updated 335i but its a year and a half a way and I want to enjoy BMW now.

Any insight? Other funny fact, payment wise, its such a close call. 150.00 a difference monthly between the two equipped cars. So its a real issue only with my perception of the 50i verses 35i. Gas mileage, drive, all that stuff. Is the v8 worth the extra money for the extra kick? And will I love this car for atleast 3 years? Would love peoples opinions. Stictly sticking with a 5 series though...

[JK479]

Any people have the opportunity to drive the two back to back?

[kfiend]

If money ain't a problem, 50i FTW.
Just make sure you get the Adaptive Drive and swap out those RTF.

You can't go wrong.

[JK479]

true... rft are much better theses days. But I still prefer conventional rubber on the pavement.

[ibimmer954]

I own the 535i (stick) and I drove an auto 550i at a BMW Drive event. To be fair, I did not drive the 550i very far. But I noticed a couple things immediately.

1. I didn't like the sound of the engine in the 550i as much. I like the high-revving tone of a BMW 6 cylinder. (I really like the sound of the E46 M3.) The 550i sound isn't bad, it's just different. More growly, meaner, not as refined. The 535i engine has a sweet sound when you rev it up.

2. The 550i has crazy amounts of power. I was really surprised... the car took off like a rocket when I floored it. If you crave power, the 550i has lots of it. The 535i is no slouch, but that turbo V8 is in another league.

The MT (on the 535i) is geared such that first and somewhat second gear don't give you that big torque feel in the 535i. Once you are into the high rev range of second and especially third gear, you feel the car really pick up. If you roll through a turn at a reasonable speed, the 535i has plenty of torque to give you decent pick up in third gear. If you have to go slower because of the minivan in front of you, you'll probably have to go down to second gear to get quick engine response.

I'd highly recommend the dynamic handling package, I feel it adds to the sporty nature of the car. I personally love the Integral Active Steering option. To me, it makes the car much more sporty and nimble in the corners. But I understand it is a controversial option, so it may not be for you. Some people like it, some don't.

And pick a good color... not white.

[LuvMyE92]

Sadly I did not drive a 550, mostly because I didn't want the temptation. Unlike the OP, I am on a budget. However, the V8 is heavier and puts more weight over the front wheels. Gas mileage is worse too, but then you don't care about money! Also, resale seems to be significantly worse for V8 BMWs, I have no idea why other than the slightly higher maintenance and repair costs (they do seem to be a bit more prone to issues).

The only V8 5 series BMW I've owned was an E39 M5 and it was stupendous! But, still, the I-6 has a unique character that is hard to ignore, smooth, nice sounds, dead reliable. I also had a 740 and the V8 is well suited to that kind of car. For me personally (see below) I prefer the I-6.

Best of luck. Either way you go will make you happy I'm sure.

[raleedy]

I think the explanation of lower resale value for the V8 is uncomplicated: more sellers than buyers. Many of the potential customers for the high end car won't want to buy used.

[JK479]

[QUOTE=ibimmer346;7970494]

The MT (on the 535i) is geared such that first and somewhat second gear don't give you that big torque feel in the 535i. Once you are into the high rev range of second and especially third gear, you feel the car really pick up. If you roll through a turn at a reasonable speed, the 535i has plenty of torque to give you decent pick up in third gear. If you have to go slower because of the minivan in front of you, you'll probably have to go down to second gear to get quick engine response.

QUOTE]

it'd funny you mention how first and second do not give you that throw back the 5oi gives you. I would agree, but lookign down at the MPH, i noticed how QUIET it was accelerating. I think it gives you the impression its not goign fast because its such a quiet ride.

I found the 0-60 time for a 535i stick. 5.75. In my opinion thats a decent time for a 3900 plus car. I've decided on 535i. Its a much more decent priced car when optioned a little less and I will go with Dynamic Handling, sport and the goodies. At 64,000 its got some goodies... and its a lease. So if i truely believe its too slow, in three years i can shoot up to the 550i in clear conscious. I do believe the 50i though will sprint to 60 in 4.7. it was a monster. i just think I crave the I6 and the beauty of that engine.

[JK479]

still debating. BMW did not make this easy. With the 335i, 535i, and 550i, to many good choices to chose from! If the 2012 3 were out, I might be in a different diection totally!

[lindros2]

I would get the 535i. I think the 550i doesn't give you the ROI if you plan to sell it within 2-5 years, and history tells me that the V8 will be less reliable in the long term (although the turbo-6's haven't been Ward's Most Reliable either...).

[1HOT BMR]

If you leave all emotion aside and do the practical and sensible thing by all means get the 535 - it makes more sense everywhere. I'm at the stage where I'm purchasing my next car for pure enjoyment and I'm disregarding any consideration for things like gas mileage, devaluation, etc. The 550i to me is THE car to get - oh that torque! it's so addicting - life is short, enjoy!

If you can afford the big difference in monthly payment ($150 is noticeable for some) and you don't mind doing something a little irrational, then for sure get the 550i - otherwise get the 535, it's the rational and sensible way to go

[joe918]

550i all the way. I haven't driven a 535i, but my 550i (stick) is awesome. Previous cars have been a C6 corvette (stick), Benz C63 (auto), and now the 550i. It's the perfect blend of luxury and performance.

[uhn2000]

550i stick and you won't go wrong!