From 5 Series to M3/4

Russkey · 08-04-2015, 10:56 AM

I'm planning to replace my 550 with 2016 M3/4. Who else moved from 5 series to the new M3/4? I know they are completely different cars but what's your experience so far? I know it's WAY lighter and handles very well compared to 5 series but how does the car feels at 80+mph? Too much wind noise? I don't really need space for rear passengers anymore. Also, I'm 6.5 tall and while I seat comfortably in the car I'm not sure if I would still be comfortable after 1+ hour drive. Any information would help

493263 · 08-04-2015, 11:12 AM

I explored that option a while back as I love the look of the M4 and I'm still single so backseats are not on the required list. However, you will immediately notice 2 things.

Interior is not as good. If that matters to you.
Ride is not as comfortable. That doesn't mean you can't drive it for 1+ hours. It just means if you're used to the 550 comfort level, it may take some adjustments.

Otherwise, the M4/M3 is a perfect high performance luxury sedan for the road and track days.

lsturbointeg · 08-04-2015, 12:28 PM

I actually started a thread not too long ago about this. Tho I loved the exterior and all the awesome aftermarket goodies and how much more of a trend It's doing but after sitting in one I thought it was Nice but my 5 series just spoiled me with the roomy interior and sporty luxury feel. but thats just my own personal opinion. If you go to the M3/M4 forum there's plenty of threads about guys who actually went from the 5 to the 3/4 series.

TexasSpartan · 08-04-2015, 02:19 PM

I actually just went from a '11 E92 M3 to a '15 535i M Sport. Although there are things I miss about the M3, the 535's ride and comfort features make me forget about most of them Haven't looked back.

493263 · 08-04-2015, 02:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TexasSpartan

I actually just went from a '11 E92 M3 to a '15 535i M Sport. Although there are things I miss about the M3, the 535's ride and comfort features make me forget about most of them Haven't looked back.

Yeah, once you get used to a certain level of space and luxury, it is very hard to go back especially with interiors and comfort that you experience with 100% of the time driving.

Russkey · 08-04-2015, 04:03 PM

Driving pleasure is more important for me than luxury! In 20 years I might change my preferences. I cross shopped e92 m3 when I bought 550. I still like 550 power more than e92 m3 but the new M3/4 is just perfect in terms of power and driving pleasure! Sooo hard to choose...Still waiting for feedback from 6.5+ tall drivers.

TexasSpartan · 08-05-2015, 09:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Russkey

Driving pleasure is more important for me than luxury! In 20 years I might change my preferences. I cross shopped e92 m3 when I bought 550. I still like 550 power more than e92 m3 but the new M3/4 is just perfect in terms of power and driving pleasure! Sooo hard to choose...Still waiting for feedback from 6.5+ tall drivers.

What are you referring to by "power"? The E92 M3 is a half second faster 0-60 time than the 550, or are you just talking raw horsepower? I put a cold air intake on my E92 along with opening up the exhaust by taking the baffles out of the chambered muffler. I've driven the new M4 and did not like it. I liked my E92 much better from a handling "feel of the road" to the exhaust. After freeing up my exhaust, it sounded so good. The new M3/M4 sounds like a ricer to me.

Russkey · 08-05-2015, 10:34 AM

That's my opinion about E92. 550 feels faster than high revving E92. Not enough torque for me so I chose 550! The new M3/4 feels very different to E92.

493263 · 08-05-2015, 01:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Russkey

That's my opinion about E92. 550 feels faster than high revving E92. Not enough torque for me so I chose 550! The new M3/4 feels very different to E92.

Yea definitely not the same. The E92 feels more raw and connected. Here's my experience with the M4.

1. Walk around - Looks great!
2. Sit inside - A bit disappointed for a $75K+ car.
3. Driving - Nearly perfect and very balanced.

It's a perfect car besides the interior and maybe steering feel. The only reason it's not the car for me is because I know I will spend 95% of my driving under 60mph. I can't afford an M4 just for the weekend while keeping my 550 for daily driving. So the choice was pretty clear for my situation. The 550 is more practical and I can be stuck in traffic for hours in complete comfort. And honestly, if I was to pick a weekend car then a Boxster GTS is a more attractive solution for me.

gatorfast · 08-05-2015, 02:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Russkey

Driving pleasure is more important for me than luxury! In 20 years .

Then get the M3/4 and dont look back! Its a fantastic car and huge performance difference and driving feel over the 5 series.

TimeFor · 08-06-2015, 02:15 PM

I'm 6.5. I traded in an F10 for an F33 4 Series. Headroom wise I was fine but you will have absolutely 0 room behind your seat. On my F10 I had friends regularly ride behind me without having to pull my seat forward. There's more "width" space for arms in the F10. And I felt the controls were just in a better location for tall people. The F33 felt a little clunky reaching controls because I'd usually have to adjust myself to press buttons. The comfort seats in the F10 work for tall people. I've sat in the seats in the M4, they are ok but no adjustable enough for me.

The F10 interior quality is hands down better than the 4 in every way. While the M4 is slightly nicer than the regular 4, it stuffs from the same basic plastic feeling everywhere. The difference of interior is like going from a full on Marriott hotel to staying at a Best Western. At a distance it looks ok but living with it you'll miss that Marriott bed.

-Time

TimeFor · 08-06-2015, 02:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TimeFor

I'm 6.5. I traded in an F10 for an F33 4 Series. Headroom wise I was fine but you will have absolutely 0 room behind your seat. On my F10 I had friends regularly ride behind me without having to pull my seat forward. There's more "width" space for arms in the F10. And I felt the controls were just in a better location for tall people. The F33 felt a little clunky reaching controls because I'd usually have to adjust myself to press buttons. The comfort seats in the F10 work for tall people. I've sat in the seats in the M4, they are ok but no adjustable enough for me.

The F10 interior quality is hands down better than the 4 in every way. While the M4 is slightly nicer than the regular 4, it stuffs from the same basic plastic feeling everywhere. The difference of interior is like going from a full on Marriott hotel to staying at a Best Western. At a distance it looks ok but living with it you'll miss that Marriott bed.

-Time

PS I should add.... I got rid of my 4 series because of this issue and I'm going to order a new F10.

Pimpsy · 08-06-2015, 11:06 PM

I looked at a LOT of cars before recently replacing my 2013 550xi with a 2016 550xi. A fully spec'd M4 costs about the same as a fully optioned 550xi, but I could not adjust to the smaller space of the M4, and the interior of the M4 did not at all seem to befit a 100K car. In particular, the center console seemed like something out of a civic, and I disliked the nav screen design. And it felt tight in the drivers seat, which is cool for racing, but not so cool for driving around town.

The F10 is a big car for me on the outside but the interior is absolutely perfect for a DD, and at the end of the day I was unable to find it's equal despite looking at virtually every car in the same price range and above.

The M4 is very fast and the handling is amazing. But, as far as an every day car goes I think the 550xi may in fact be the absolute best car on the market. It is for me anyway.

lsturbointeg · 08-07-2015, 10:22 AM

Great points from everyone here. OP besides headroom and being 6'+ tall what else are u looking for? Performance, luxury, ect...?

Russkey · 08-08-2015, 11:27 AM

Thanks for your comments people! Now I need to test drive it to come to a conclusion.

Russkey · 08-10-2015, 01:15 PM

Most of forum members that prefer 5 series over M3/4 say that there's a HUGE difference the way interior is built. I know that there are more plastic parts but looking at this picture, I don't see a HUGE difference that everybody mention. I can definitely live with such interior especially if I like the exterior and the car is fun to drive!

bimmer_335 · 08-10-2015, 01:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TexasSpartan

I actually just went from a '11 E92 M3 to a '15 535i M Sport. Although there are things I miss about the M3, the 535's ride and comfort features make me forget about most of them Haven't looked back.

I recently moved from E92 coupe to 535i... I definitely miss mine. I needed a bigger car with smooth ride to accommodate my growing family.

If you have grown kids (who are immune to stiffer ride) or no kids (single) then you will love moving to F30/32 platform.

The Beast · 08-10-2015, 01:57 PM

I really wanted to love the 4 however coming from an X5 my main issue was cabin and seat width. I literally went to the dealer and tested it out multiple times but couldn't get comfortable despite owning many 3's before my X5.

I therefore went for an F10 to replace my X5 even though I drive alone 95% of the time... I guess once you get used to the extra space you notice when it's not there!

If you can get comfortable in it then go for it, it's a beautiful car.

Pimpsy · 08-10-2015, 06:53 PM

Once you get used to a 5, the 3s and 4s seem really cramped.

chrisny · 08-10-2015, 09:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AlanM

Once you get used to a 5, the 3s and 4s seem really cramped.

+1. And I've only had my 550 for a month... Took no more than a test drive in an F10 for my previous F30 to feel cramped.

Pimpsy · 08-10-2015, 09:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chrisny

+1. And I've only had my 550 for a month... Took no more than a test drive in an F10 for my previous F30 to feel cramped.

+2.

The M4 felt like how my twin boys look in their car seats. In a word: snug. Not uncomfortable, but like sleeping in a very nice twin bed;feels great...but don't expect to change positions without immediately becoming aware of the limitations of the environment.

The 5 is more like luxuriating in a really comfortable King sized bed. Feels great, with plenty of room to shift around and really enjoy the space. I think I said this in another thread but it bears repeating...IMO the 550 really is the ultimate daily driver. High praise indeed...but well deserved.

chrisny · 08-10-2015, 09:25 PM

I'll also add that the F30 started to feel small on the road after I had an F10 loaner. Like I just felt small next to other cars, since there are so many big cars around these days. And since I had driven something with more of a presence immediately prior (when dropping off the loaner and picking up my 335..).

08-04-2015, 10:56 AM	#1
Russkey Captain 155 Rep 751 Posts Drives: '12 BMW AW 550xi Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Miami, FL iTrader: (0) Garage List 2012 550xi [10.00]	From 5 Series to M3/4 I'm planning to replace my 550 with 2016 M3/4. Who else moved from 5 series to the new M3/4? I know they are completely different cars but what's your experience so far? I know it's WAY lighter and handles very well compared to 5 series but how does the car feels at 80+mph? Too much wind noise? I don't really need space for rear passengers anymore. Also, I'm 6.5 tall and while I seat comfortably in the car I'm not sure if I would still be comfortable after 1+ hour drive. Any information would help __________________ '15 Porsche Macan S / Black & Garnet Red / 20" RS Spyder Wheels / CF trim / Red Calipers / Black Rear Badge. '12 AW 550xi / Dinan S2 / Arkym CF Spoiler / 3D Design Style Splitter / Eisenmann Race Exhaust / 20' HRE FF01 / ACS Springs / CF Grill / CF 3D Design Diffuser / Blue Calipers...
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08-04-2015, 11:12 AM	#2
493263 Lieutenant 71 Rep 510 Posts Drives: 2011 550i xDrive Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: DC iTrader: (0)	I explored that option a while back as I love the look of the M4 and I'm still single so backseats are not on the required list. However, you will immediately notice 2 things. Interior is not as good. If that matters to you. Ride is not as comfortable. That doesn't mean you can't drive it for 1+ hours. It just means if you're used to the 550 comfort level, it may take some adjustments. Otherwise, the M4/M3 is a perfect high performance luxury sedan for the road and track days.
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08-04-2015, 12:28 PM	#3
lsturbointeg Lieutenant General 9153 Rep 14,522 Posts Drives: 2011 535i Jet Black Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: Asian lost in OH iTrader: (0)	I actually started a thread not too long ago about this. Tho I loved the exterior and all the awesome aftermarket goodies and how much more of a trend It's doing but after sitting in one I thought it was Nice but my 5 series just spoiled me with the roomy interior and sporty luxury feel. but thats just my own personal opinion. If you go to the M3/M4 forum there's plenty of threads about guys who actually went from the 5 to the 3/4 series. Last edited by lsturbointeg; 08-04-2015 at 12:33 PM..
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08-04-2015, 02:19 PM	#4
TexasSpartan Lieutenant 24 Rep 422 Posts Drives: '06 E85 3.0si Join Date: Feb 2013 Location: Fulshear, TX iTrader: (0)	I actually just went from a '11 E92 M3 to a '15 535i M Sport. Although there are things I miss about the M3, the 535's ride and comfort features make me forget about most of them Haven't looked back. __________________ 2006 E85 Z4 3.0si 2015 F10 535i M Sport Sold 2011 E92 M3 Sold 2007 E90 335i Sold 2006 E90 330i Sold
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08-04-2015, 04:03 PM	#6
Russkey Captain 155 Rep 751 Posts Drives: '12 BMW AW 550xi Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Miami, FL iTrader: (0) Garage List 2012 550xi [10.00]	Driving pleasure is more important for me than luxury! In 20 years I might change my preferences. I cross shopped e92 m3 when I bought 550. I still like 550 power more than e92 m3 but the new M3/4 is just perfect in terms of power and driving pleasure! Sooo hard to choose...Still waiting for feedback from 6.5+ tall drivers. __________________ '15 Porsche Macan S / Black & Garnet Red / 20" RS Spyder Wheels / CF trim / Red Calipers / Black Rear Badge. '12 AW 550xi / Dinan S2 / Arkym CF Spoiler / 3D Design Style Splitter / Eisenmann Race Exhaust / 20' HRE FF01 / ACS Springs / CF Grill / CF 3D Design Diffuser / Blue Calipers...
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08-05-2015, 10:34 AM	#8
Russkey Captain 155 Rep 751 Posts Drives: '12 BMW AW 550xi Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Miami, FL iTrader: (0) Garage List 2012 550xi [10.00]	That's my opinion about E92. 550 feels faster than high revving E92. Not enough torque for me so I chose 550! The new M3/4 feels very different to E92. __________________ '15 Porsche Macan S / Black & Garnet Red / 20" RS Spyder Wheels / CF trim / Red Calipers / Black Rear Badge. '12 AW 550xi / Dinan S2 / Arkym CF Spoiler / 3D Design Style Splitter / Eisenmann Race Exhaust / 20' HRE FF01 / ACS Springs / CF Grill / CF 3D Design Diffuser / Blue Calipers...
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08-06-2015, 02:15 PM	#11
TimeFor Lieutenant 180 Rep 489 Posts Drives: 2019 i3S REx Join Date: Sep 2011 Location: Hollywood, CA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2019 BMW i3S REx [0.00]	I'm 6.5. I traded in an F10 for an F33 4 Series. Headroom wise I was fine but you will have absolutely 0 room behind your seat. On my F10 I had friends regularly ride behind me without having to pull my seat forward. There's more "width" space for arms in the F10. And I felt the controls were just in a better location for tall people. The F33 felt a little clunky reaching controls because I'd usually have to adjust myself to press buttons. The comfort seats in the F10 work for tall people. I've sat in the seats in the M4, they are ok but no adjustable enough for me. The F10 interior quality is hands down better than the 4 in every way. While the M4 is slightly nicer than the regular 4, it stuffs from the same basic plastic feeling everywhere. The difference of interior is like going from a full on Marriott hotel to staying at a Best Western. At a distance it looks ok but living with it you'll miss that Marriott bed. -Time
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08-06-2015, 11:06 PM	#13
Pimpsy Captain 419 Rep 862 Posts Drives: 2019 M5C Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: NJ iTrader: (0)	I looked at a LOT of cars before recently replacing my 2013 550xi with a 2016 550xi. A fully spec'd M4 costs about the same as a fully optioned 550xi, but I could not adjust to the smaller space of the M4, and the interior of the M4 did not at all seem to befit a 100K car. In particular, the center console seemed like something out of a civic, and I disliked the nav screen design. And it felt tight in the drivers seat, which is cool for racing, but not so cool for driving around town. The F10 is a big car for me on the outside but the interior is absolutely perfect for a DD, and at the end of the day I was unable to find it's equal despite looking at virtually every car in the same price range and above. The M4 is very fast and the handling is amazing. But, as far as an every day car goes I think the 550xi may in fact be the absolute best car on the market. It is for me anyway.
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08-07-2015, 10:22 AM	#14
lsturbointeg Lieutenant General 9153 Rep 14,522 Posts Drives: 2011 535i Jet Black Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: Asian lost in OH iTrader: (0)	Great points from everyone here. OP besides headroom and being 6'+ tall what else are u looking for? Performance, luxury, ect...?
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08-08-2015, 11:27 AM	#15
Russkey Captain 155 Rep 751 Posts Drives: '12 BMW AW 550xi Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Miami, FL iTrader: (0) Garage List 2012 550xi [10.00]	Thanks for your comments people! Now I need to test drive it to come to a conclusion. __________________ '15 Porsche Macan S / Black & Garnet Red / 20" RS Spyder Wheels / CF trim / Red Calipers / Black Rear Badge. '12 AW 550xi / Dinan S2 / Arkym CF Spoiler / 3D Design Style Splitter / Eisenmann Race Exhaust / 20' HRE FF01 / ACS Springs / CF Grill / CF 3D Design Diffuser / Blue Calipers...
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08-10-2015, 01:15 PM	#16
Russkey Captain 155 Rep 751 Posts Drives: '12 BMW AW 550xi Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Miami, FL iTrader: (0) Garage List 2012 550xi [10.00]	Most of forum members that prefer 5 series over M3/4 say that there's a HUGE difference the way interior is built. I know that there are more plastic parts but looking at this picture, I don't see a HUGE difference that everybody mention. I can definitely live with such interior especially if I like the exterior and the car is fun to drive! __________________ '15 Porsche Macan S / Black & Garnet Red / 20" RS Spyder Wheels / CF trim / Red Calipers / Black Rear Badge. '12 AW 550xi / Dinan S2 / Arkym CF Spoiler / 3D Design Style Splitter / Eisenmann Race Exhaust / 20' HRE FF01 / ACS Springs / CF Grill / CF 3D Design Diffuser / Blue Calipers...
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08-10-2015, 01:57 PM	#18
The Beast Lieutenant Colonel 268 Rep 1,597 Posts Drives: VW Transporter Sportline Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Wolverhampton iTrader: (0)	I really wanted to love the 4 however coming from an X5 my main issue was cabin and seat width. I literally went to the dealer and tested it out multiple times but couldn't get comfortable despite owning many 3's before my X5. I therefore went for an F10 to replace my X5 even though I drive alone 95% of the time... I guess once you get used to the extra space you notice when it's not there! If you can get comfortable in it then go for it, it's a beautiful car.
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08-10-2015, 06:53 PM	#19
Pimpsy Captain 419 Rep 862 Posts Drives: 2019 M5C Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: NJ iTrader: (0)	Once you get used to a 5, the 3s and 4s seem really cramped.
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08-10-2015, 09:25 PM	#22
chrisny Brigadier General 547 Rep 3,307 Posts Drives: 2020 X5 40i Join Date: Apr 2012 Location: NY iTrader: (0)	I'll also add that the F30 started to feel small on the road after I had an F10 loaner. Like I just felt small next to other cars, since there are so many big cars around these days. And since I had driven something with more of a presence immediately prior (when dropping off the loaner and picking up my 335..).
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