First, I apologize if this new thread from a new member is a re-tread. I looked quickly and while I found some similar advice, nothing was exactly what I am looking for.
I have pretty much decided that I am going to buy - in the next few weeks - an E39 M5. I am an amateur car-nut (like most people here I imagine) and my 2000 Audi S4 is getting a little long in the tooth. In my next car, I was faster and better handling (who doesn't) and want enough space that my parents and/or clients can fit in the back seat comfortably. My price ceiling is somewhere in the mid-to-high $40,000 range.
Question 1: What other cars should I consider? Frankly, I don't think there are many with the space and performance I seek in my price range (new or used). I have considered a used Audi S8 (too big), a new or used recent S4 (too small in the back seat), and a new 335 (doesn't handle well enough and aesthetic reasons). For my own reasons, I do not want to own a Mercedes. Also considered an M45 (need manual), a TL Type-S (torque problem), Saabs, etc. Only car that I have not driven that might be worth looking at is an CTS-V, but poor resale values scare me. Lastly, I have a strong preference for cars with low-end grunt. For example, Honda/Acura products typically generate most of their power in the high end of the RPM range, which is not exactly what I enjoy (frankly, it scares my wife when I used to drive like that in my old Prelude). Any models I am missing?
Question 2: Assuming I am not missing anything - I love the 200-2003 M5s. They seem to be exactly what I am looking for. As I shop used cars, what options should I look for? What are the important differences between 2002 and 2003 models? I know I want NAV, iPod compatibility, pretty much all the toys. Sport seats versus Luxo seats? Fold down rear seats? Other options I might not have thought to look for? I would love the experienced opinions along the lines of what boxes you would/did click when buying them new so I can seek the exact right vehicle. (I will probably buy only certified, and then extend the warranty through the dealer, so I am not as concerned about the reliability issues.
Thanks you in advance for the advice.
There are lots of great M5s and lots of pretty bad ones too. To be able to really tell the difference you need to have experienced a perfect one. So drive as many as you can find.
The price difference betewwen a bad one and a perfect one is not very big. DonŽt fool yourself into thinking youŽd save any money in the long run by buying a bad M5.
M5s are expensive to maintain, and the last thing you want is an M5 with a big backlog of things not repaired and maintained as those should.
For some suggestions about things to check yourself, have a look at:
Welcome to the board. My search requirements were similar to yours, and I am the happy owner of a beast. To your list, I assume you don't care for the A6 4.2?
Regarding the 335 sedan, I imagine that would be a suggestion, except that you note that you don't care for the looks or handling.
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Ashok
2002 E39 Carbonblack/Caramel M5 (best car I ever owned)
2005 E60 Blue Onyx/Caramel/Light Figured Ash M5 (worst car I ever owned)
2007 E90 Montego Blue/Black Alpina D3 (sublime) Let me tell you what SMG stands for...
First off welcome and for your Q you'll find many threads regarding your concerns and what not i suggest taking the time researching through this board and other boards aswell...goodluck in finding the right car for you...
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" Despite its supercar attributes, the M5 still doubles as a soberly practical, spacious saloon - only with the ability to scare four passengers in comfort all the way to the local coronary unit". Top Gear
Welcome to the board. My search requirements were similar to yours, and I am the happy owner of a beast. To your list, I assume you don't care for the A6 4.2?
Regarding the 335 sedan, I imagine that would be a suggestion, except that you note that you don't care for the looks or handling.
Good luck.
I did not consider the A6 4.2 - great idea. I will review the specs and drive it tonight, although at an initial review I am not sure it will have the speed I am looking for.
I was pleasently surprised by the 335, although I did get the stability control to kick in a few times during my normal-agressive test drive. The engine was not quite as powerful at low rpms as my S4 seems to be. (Both engines are twin-turbo V6s, although I think the 335 has a slightly larger displacement). Nice car all around, I guess I am not a fan of the new BMW styling.
DO NOT think that the CPO (which actually includes an extended warranty) will protect you- either from expense or aggravation. This is a fallacy many fall for- be warned, do a search.
Also, the extended maintenance only includes the bare minimum- recognize there is more $ involved than just the minimum.
There are ways to get a cpo with a private party sale- you don't need to limit yourself to dealers. Search here on cpos.
The rear sun shades are nice, but only come with the sport interior- I like both.
The fold down seats reportedly have a propensity to make more noise- FYI.
The 2003 adds a DVD based NAV over the 2002, but that can be added in 10 minutes for $1000.
Also, some 2002s had "rear airbags factory delete"... if rear airbags are important you need to check the factory build specs on the VIN to make sure. They were standard in 2001 and 2003, but could be turned on or off with a $250 dealer visit.
There really is no comparable alternative to the E-39 M5. Closest probably being the A6, E-55, and CTS-V. However, none of them is a *BMW*. This is probably why 90+% of us own one. It's the best looking/handling , most powerful manual 4-passenger sedan there is. If I *had* to switch, I'd probably go with the Audi. AFA differences between 02' and 03', I don't believe there are any. Lux vs Sport seats is personal preference, but for me it wouldn't be a deal-breaker. Both are nice. There really wasn't many options...PDC, M-audio, fold-down seats, sunshades...none of which would be a deal-maker/breaker for me. For the $ you're talking, there's LOTS of options. Take your time and shop around.
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"The whole world was astonished and followed The Beast." Rev 13:3
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