Upgrade in the works

armanm · 03-17-2015, 11:02 PM

The lease on my 2012 328i is coming to and end in September and I have been thinking of potential replacements. The car has been wonderful, aside from the electrical glitches here and there and I am quite satisfied for the power given its a 4 cylinder and the pick up it has.

Now onto the good stuff: the replacement

So hang with me here for a second before thinking my mind is all over the place. I am looking to not push past the $100k mark which means I have come up with the following list, in order of interest with the price as built:

1) Mineral White/ Full SO M3 $83,575 OR
Alpine White 550i M sport (83,500) including DHP might opt for B&O instead or possibly both DHP and B&O depending on payments

2) 650i GC Alpine White M-Sport Edition ($98,600)

3) X5/X6 50i Alpine White with M-sport ($?)

Now Option 1 is what im looking to stick with, option 2 would be my ultimate option the only downside is the price. Option 3 havent given too much thought but definitely like the overall design only need to test drive.

My options differ widely but definitely an upgrade from my 4 cylinder 328i
If I were to choose one I would go with the M3 the only factor that involves the 550i in the mix would be the extra room for accommodating family, which I quite often do. Well to be honest I have always loved the 5 series!

But that M3!!!!

What are your thoughts and opinions?

These cars will be leased and undergo some major modifications, looking to spend no more than $7500 in MODS

Best,
Arman

SonicEndeavor · 03-17-2015, 11:54 PM

Yes, wildly different choices.

. The F10 is a big heavy luxury cruiser that is essentially a slighly smaller 7 series (same chassis).
They're both fast in a straight line but the 550 can't touch the M3 in terms of handling and steering feel (keep in mind the F10 is very different from previous 5 series models). On the flip side, the M3 interior is lacking, and the car is certainly louder than the dead quiet 5 series.
The 650 GC is pricey, but handles better than the 550 and may be a good compromise between the M3 and 550.
You'll need to prioritize interior room, power, handling, quietness, interior quality, and availability of whatever mods you plan.
And yeah, that M3.
Also, btw, if you're planning engine mods, be aware that the new M3 & M4 contact BMW if the cars detect any ECU mods.
Best of luck with your decision.

NewM3driver · 03-18-2015, 07:07 AM

You are coming out of a 3 series sized car. Is it big enough and comfortable enough? The 5 series is a huge leap in size, luxury and comfort. The M3 will be a huge leap, no, a HUGE leap in terms of performance.... really not in the same world. Why are you set on the 550? You give up a lot of handling/weight for speed that is really not usable. The 535 straight 6 is lightyears better than the coarse 4 banger you are currently driving in terms of smoothness and refinement, in fact it is one of the best engines in the world. If you push it at all it can be deceptively fast.

I never liked the 6. Couldn't give me one. Just find it big and ugly.

The X5 is a great vehicle in terms of ride and comfort, but seriously consider if you want to spend the next 3 years in what is getting dangerously close to looking like a mini van.

The M3 is looking really good to me in this situation. Its a really nice step up, and you will smile every time you get into it. Can't say that about any of the other cars you are talking about.

493263 · 03-18-2015, 09:08 AM

Option 4: Wait one more year for the next gen 5 series.

M5Beast_NYC · 03-18-2015, 10:21 AM

The M3 is a really nice car but I dont really know how it drives. Im sure it will be great. And that Mineral white is just pure awesome! Number 1 would be nice choice out of all those

lsturbointeg · 03-18-2015, 10:36 AM

What's crazy to me is u wanna drop $7500 for mods on a car you're gonna return...never understood that?

armanm · 03-18-2015, 10:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SonicEndeavor

Yes, wildly different choices.

. The F10 is a big heavy luxury cruiser that is essentially a slighly smaller 7 series (same chassis).
They're both fast in a straight line but the 550 can't touch the M3 in terms of handling and steering feel (keep in mind the F10 is very different from previous 5 series models). On the flip side, the M3 interior is lacking, and the car is certainly louder than the dead quiet 5 series.
The 650 GC is pricey, but handles better than the 550 and may be a good compromise between the M3 and 550.
You'll need to prioritize interior room, power, handling, quietness, interior quality, and availability of whatever mods you plan.
And yeah, that M3.
Also, btw, if you're planning engine mods, be aware that the new M3 & M4 contact BMW if the cars detect any ECU mods.
Best of luck with your decision.

I feel a slight preference over the M3 now!
I wont be performance modding the M3 it will all be cosmetic front lip, spoiler, rims, some M decals, etc.

I need to back-to-back test drives of the M3 and 550i and make a decision. I was hoping the DHP would help with the size of the 5er.

Thanks for your opinion!

armanm · 03-18-2015, 10:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NewM3driver

You are coming out of a 3 series sized car. Is it big enough and comfortable enough? The 5 series is a huge leap in size, luxury and comfort. The M3 will be a huge leap, no, a HUGE leap in terms of performance.... really not in the same world. Why are you set on the 550? You give up a lot of handling/weight for speed that is really not usable. The 535 straight 6 is lightyears better than the coarse 4 banger you are currently driving in terms of smoothness and refinement, in fact it is one of the best engines in the world. If you push it at all it can be deceptively fast.

I never liked the 6. Couldn't give me one. Just find it big and ugly.

The X5 is a great vehicle in terms of ride and comfort, but seriously consider if you want to spend the next 3 years in what is getting dangerously close to looking like a mini van.

The M3 is looking really good to me in this situation. Its a really nice step up, and you will smile every time you get into it. Can't say that about any of the other cars you are talking about.

I was thinking 535i route a few months ago, but looking at the M3 and its performance I choose the 550i for a better comparison.

Yea I think the X5/X6 are just about out of the competition at this point.

Now M3 or 550i
If only M3 pricing lowers a bit by end of summer!

Thanks for your opinion!

armanm · 03-18-2015, 10:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 493263

Option 4: Wait one more year for the next gen 5 series.

I thoughts about this as well.
The only issues would be the ridiculous pricing at launch and also first year glitches of the model.

armanm · 03-18-2015, 10:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Carbonm3ny

The M3 is a really nice car but I dont really know how it drives. Im sure it will be great. And that Mineral white is just pure awesome! Number 1 would be nice choice out of all those

Yes, I think my head it tipping towards the M3, slightly!

Thanks

armanm · 03-18-2015, 10:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lsturbointeg

What's crazy to me is u wanna drop $7500 for mods on a car you're gonna return...never understood that?

At this point I dont want to spend over the $7,500 not that I will necessarily spend exactly that amount.

I also have plans to purchase the car at the end of the lease or possibly do a 5 years owners choice instead of leasing.

If I spend enough money on upgrades I will definitely want to keep the car in the long run.

SonicEndeavor · 03-18-2015, 11:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by armanm

I feel a slight preference over the M3 now!
I wont be performance modding the M3 it will all be cosmetic front lip, spoiler, rims, some M decals, etc.

I need to back-to-back test drives of the M3 and 550i and make a decision. I was hoping the DHP would help with the size of the 5er.

Thanks for your opinion!

Or if not DHP, upgrade to a set of adjustable KW's and you can tune the suspension to match your needs. That's the route I went.

armanm · 03-18-2015, 11:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SonicEndeavor

Or if not DHP, upgrade to a set of adjustable KW's and you can tune the suspension to match your needs. That's the route I went.

I will give that some consideration, can you give some feedback pre and post the KW's.

493263 · 03-18-2015, 01:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by armanm

I thoughts about this as well.
The only issues would be the ridiculous pricing at launch and also first year glitches of the model.

You don't have to deal with that. That just means you can get a reliable 2016 F10 550xi for dirt cheap

AT LAW · 03-18-2015, 02:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 493263

You don't have to deal with that. That just means you can get a reliable 2016 F10 550xi for dirt cheap

I would go this route as well. The 2016's will be out soon.

Better yet, try to find a new 550 this summer and have BMW pull ahead your lease.

AT LAW · 03-18-2015, 02:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NewM3driver

The X5 is a great vehicle in terms of ride and comfort, but seriously consider if you want to spend the next 3 years in what is getting dangerously close to looking like a mini van.

Very well said. The X5 has officially been ruined with this new body change.
Absolutely ridiculous looking SUV / minivan.

armanm · 03-18-2015, 02:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AT LAW

Quote:

Originally Posted by 493263

You don't have to deal with that. That just means you can get a reliable 2016 F10 550xi for dirt cheap

I would go this route as well. The 2016's will be out soon.

Better yet, try to find a new 550 this summer and have BMW pull ahead your lease.

I think that's the route I will head if I don't lease an M3 since BMW has contacted me regarding the pull ahead

AT LAW · 03-18-2015, 02:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 493263

Option 4: Wait one more year for the next gen 5 series.

It will take a year to two years for the dealers to accept anything less than window sticker for the new model.

Additionally, based on the new 7 Series, I am very concerned about the new 5's.

Far too much 3 Series influence with the headlight reaching to the grille.

BMW has already ruined the X5, so we know they are very capable of the same thing for the 5's.

M5Beast_NYC · 03-18-2015, 03:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SonicEndeavor

Or if not DHP, upgrade to a set of adjustable KW's and you can tune the suspension to match your needs. That's the route I went.

If i recall correctly, the DHP not only modify the suspension but also throttle response.

If you dont get DHP, can you still change the throttle response with the button? If so, then KW v1 or v2 might be the way to go.

The X Men · 03-18-2015, 04:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by armanm

Yes, I think my head it tipping towards the M3, slightly!

Thanks

I would take the $7500 and add it to the $100,000 and get yourself an M5.

550Reasons · 03-18-2015, 05:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by The X Men

I would take the $7500 and add it to the $100,000 and get yourself an M5.

I see used 2014 M5's for sale just under 70k.

that could be another option too ..

armanm · 03-18-2015, 07:53 PM

Thanks for all the input everyone.

I would love an M5 but I am trying to stay away from used cars for now!

Waiting for the M3 to drop in price a little before I place a custom order.

Is it possible to have BMW do Pure Metal Silver color through BMW individual?
I know its reserved for M5/M6 but if I go through Individual route would they accommodate?

03-17-2015, 11:02 PM	#1
armanm Lieutenant General 48 Rep 397 Posts Drives: 2018 540i M Sport2015 535i M S Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: Los Angeles, California iTrader: (0) Garage List 2012 BMW 328i [0.00]	Upgrade in the works The lease on my 2012 328i is coming to and end in September and I have been thinking of potential replacements. The car has been wonderful, aside from the electrical glitches here and there and I am quite satisfied for the power given its a 4 cylinder and the pick up it has. Now onto the good stuff: the replacement So hang with me here for a second before thinking my mind is all over the place. I am looking to not push past the $100k mark which means I have come up with the following list, in order of interest with the price as built: 1) Mineral White/ Full SO M3 $83,575 OR Alpine White 550i M sport (83,500) including DHP might opt for B&O instead or possibly both DHP and B&O depending on payments 2) 650i GC Alpine White M-Sport Edition ($98,600) 3) X5/X6 50i Alpine White with M-sport ($?) Now Option 1 is what im looking to stick with, option 2 would be my ultimate option the only downside is the price. Option 3 havent given too much thought but definitely like the overall design only need to test drive. My options differ widely but definitely an upgrade from my 4 cylinder 328i If I were to choose one I would go with the M3 the only factor that involves the 550i in the mix would be the extra room for accommodating family, which I quite often do. Well to be honest I have always loved the 5 series! But that M3!!!! What are your thoughts and opinions? These cars will be leased and undergo some major modifications, looking to spend no more than $7500 in MODS Best, Arman __________________ 2018 540i M Sport Alpine White 2015 535i M Sport (Past) 2012 328i Luxury Line (Past)
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03-17-2015, 11:54 PM	#2
SonicEndeavor Lieutenant 48 Rep 494 Posts Drives: 2014 535i MSport Join Date: Jun 2013 Location: California iTrader: (0)	Yes, wildly different choices. . The F10 is a big heavy luxury cruiser that is essentially a slighly smaller 7 series (same chassis). They're both fast in a straight line but the 550 can't touch the M3 in terms of handling and steering feel (keep in mind the F10 is very different from previous 5 series models). On the flip side, the M3 interior is lacking, and the car is certainly louder than the dead quiet 5 series. The 650 GC is pricey, but handles better than the 550 and may be a good compromise between the M3 and 550. You'll need to prioritize interior room, power, handling, quietness, interior quality, and availability of whatever mods you plan. And yeah, that M3. Also, btw, if you're planning engine mods, be aware that the new M3 & M4 contact BMW if the cars detect any ECU mods. Best of luck with your decision. __________________ 2014 LCI 535i /// M-Sport - SAT, Premium package, HK Audio, Drivers Assistance, Top/Side/Rear cameras, multi-contour seats. Mods: V2 coilovers, Michelin PS4S, Opticoat Pro, Quad black chrome exhaust tips.
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03-18-2015, 07:07 AM	#3
NewM3driver Colonel 1110 Rep 2,008 Posts Drives: 2017 M3 ZCP Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: CT iTrader: (0)	You are coming out of a 3 series sized car. Is it big enough and comfortable enough? The 5 series is a huge leap in size, luxury and comfort. The M3 will be a huge leap, no, a HUGE leap in terms of performance.... really not in the same world. Why are you set on the 550? You give up a lot of handling/weight for speed that is really not usable. The 535 straight 6 is lightyears better than the coarse 4 banger you are currently driving in terms of smoothness and refinement, in fact it is one of the best engines in the world. If you push it at all it can be deceptively fast. I never liked the 6. Couldn't give me one. Just find it big and ugly. The X5 is a great vehicle in terms of ride and comfort, but seriously consider if you want to spend the next 3 years in what is getting dangerously close to looking like a mini van. The M3 is looking really good to me in this situation. Its a really nice step up, and you will smile every time you get into it. Can't say that about any of the other cars you are talking about.
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03-18-2015, 09:08 AM	#4
493263 Lieutenant 71 Rep 510 Posts Drives: 2011 550i xDrive Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: DC iTrader: (0)	Option 4: Wait one more year for the next gen 5 series.
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03-18-2015, 10:21 AM	#5
M5Beast_NYC Major 158 Rep 1,314 Posts Drives: 15 M5 Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: NYC iTrader: (6)	The M3 is a really nice car but I dont really know how it drives. Im sure it will be great. And that Mineral white is just pure awesome! Number 1 would be nice choice out of all those
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03-18-2015, 10:36 AM	#6
lsturbointeg Lieutenant General 9153 Rep 14,522 Posts Drives: 2011 535i Jet Black Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: Asian lost in OH iTrader: (0)	What's crazy to me is u wanna drop $7500 for mods on a car you're gonna return...never understood that?
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03-18-2015, 07:53 PM	#22
armanm Lieutenant General 48 Rep 397 Posts Drives: 2018 540i M Sport2015 535i M S Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: Los Angeles, California iTrader: (0) Garage List 2012 BMW 328i [0.00]	Thanks for all the input everyone. I would love an M5 but I am trying to stay away from used cars for now! Waiting for the M3 to drop in price a little before I place a custom order. Is it possible to have BMW do Pure Metal Silver color through BMW individual? I know its reserved for M5/M6 but if I go through Individual route would they accommodate? __________________ 2018 540i M Sport Alpine White 2015 535i M Sport (Past) 2012 328i Luxury Line (Past)
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