12737 messages,
Last post on Feb 16, 2013 at 11:05 PM
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BMW 5-Series Forum.
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BMW 5 Series, Sedan
#9256 of 12737 Past, Present and Future
by riez
Aug 08, 2004 (7:06 am)
div2... I concur, though my BMW-lust arose in late 1970s when I was in high school.
Is a shame that BMW won't bring the 120i over, though I wonder if a 120ia will be too underpowered, like the 318i Compact was in the mid-1990s. (Remember test driving one with wife, who can only drive automatics. No power at all.)
The gadgetry (and resulting issues with reliability and longevity) really are off putting. Not to mention the use of such to replace truly useful driver aids like LSD. [Always burned me that my former $60,000 540i6 didn't even have LSD.]
Aug 08, 2004 (10:18 am)
1983 was when I bought my first Bimmer. My interest in BMWs began in 1971 when I noticed the first Bavaria ads-which described a 130 mph car that cruised at 120. Then I ran across a copy of DED Jr.'s "Turn Your Hymnals to 2002". I was hooked. As a matter of fact, one of my prized possesions is a copy of the C&D magazine containing that article. Mr. Davis was kind enough to autograph it for me at O'fest 1992.
As for the four cylinders, yes you really need a manual to extract the best performance from them. It's sad that driving a stick is becoming a lost art. I'd also like to try some of the diesel BMWs that AG is selling across the pond. I hope we're not going back to the situaution of two decades ago-when Munich decided to keep their best BMWs at home...
Aug 08, 2004 (5:03 pm)
Anybody got the Heads Up Device? I've ordered a 2005 545I but am still wondering about the HUD. Only things you can project onto the windscreen are your speed (in digital format) and the right hand side of the NAV screen. Also the Adaptive Cruise Control data if you have that option.
I'm getting NAV and wonder if this gadget is worth it.
#9259 of 12737 Extended Maintenance Program
by glaker
Aug 08, 2004 (5:30 pm)
I’ve read some postings asking questions about extended warranties (beyond the original new car warranty). I was at my dealership on Friday and found some details concerning the supposedly new extended/upgraded maintenance program. To go from the standard BMW 4/50 maintenance program to the extended 6/100 program costs $985 for the 3 series (except the M), the Z3 and Z4, while it costs $1195 for all other models and the M3. According to the pamphlet it covers “all factory-recommended maintenance as listed in the BMW Service and Warranty Information booklet. It also includes the replacement of items that are not covered by the BMW Limited Warranty – such as brake pads, brake rotors, wiper blade inserts- when wear and tear exceeds BMW specifications”.
On the other hand, exclusions include “components or parts on any vehicle that are subject to gradual deterioration or normal wear and tear as the result of driving habits, conditions or use of the vehicle.” The fine print then specifically lists such excluded items as piston rings, valves and valve guides, suspension bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, and drive shaft flex discs. Finally, they exclude items such as engine, transmission and body adjustments, batteries, hoses, exhaust systems, headlamps and a bunch of other things including upholstery carpeting, etc.
Having only had my 530 for one year, I haven’t yet experienced the value of the maintenance/repair warranty, but I guess I’ll have to do some ‘thinkin’ and ‘cypherin’ before I decide on whether it’s a good deal.
Div2 - I took delivery of a 330 with performance package on Thursday and it is absolutely awesome!
#9260 of 12737 glaker
by div2
Aug 08, 2004 (7:37 pm)
Congratulations! The PHP makes a great car into a legendary car-its the only new 3er I'd have.
Aug 08, 2004 (7:50 pm)
Congrats on a beautiful new ZHP! Enjoy it!
As far as the 6/100 extended maintenance package goes. What are your driving habits? How long are you going to keep the car? How many miles do you plan on putting on it?
The maintanance package is just that, maintanance, it IS NOT an extended warranty. If you're going to have the car past the 4/50 b to b warranty and free maintenance package, maybe it is something you should consider... Find out the cost of Inspection II at your dealership (at 60K miles it will be the first post free maintenance), a basic oil change, brake job (BMW replaces pads and rotors at the same time. You could also look around your area to see if there are any good independent BMW mechanics in your area.
Aug 09, 2004 (7:09 am)
It has been discussed or rumored before in this forum, but does anyone know when or if BMW is going to bring out the 535 with more horsepower. I am looking to buy 530, but would wait if I know 535 is coming out soon. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
#9263 of 12737 BMW Six-cylinder engines
by sdg380
Aug 09, 2004 (11:42 am)
Bavaria, this is a site with a fairly detailed discussion of new 6-cylinder engines, and makes reference to a new magnesium 3.0 liter with Valvetronic, good for 258 hp, and a 3.5 liter turbo-diesel. But it wasn't clear to me if these are for '05 and/or US market.
http://www.germancarfans.com/news.cfm/newsid/2040718.001/bmw/1.ht- ml
#9264 of 12737 Re: BMW Six-cylinder engines [sdg380]
by bavaria
Aug 09, 2004 (12:39 pm)
Great information. I did not realize the increase in HP was based on a new 3.0 engine. Thought it was the 3.5, but with the increase in HP the 3.0 might suffice. Just need it to come out in Sept. Wonder if BMW will announce new engine for US for 05. Thanks
#9265 of 12737 Re: 525i: Does is have BMW prestige? [bmwdoug]
by driver5
Aug 09, 2004 (7:24 pm)
Just returned from a 6000 mile trip in my new 525i.Averaged 34MPG,with AC on and fully loaded, mostly at 80MPH , 20% city driving. I used Premium as recommended. intend to try the mid grade next. Anyone have any ideas on that. I just traded in my 2000528i and I had used mid grade fuel for 68,000 miles with no problems. love my new 525i. ( just would not put up the additional $5M for the 530)This new one is super in every way.I do use the manual and super drive a lot. It is a lot bigger,especially the trunk. I got the folding rear seats, and find it much more flexible to organize my wife's 3 suitcases and my little suitcase and golf clubs. The I control is easy to get used to.Wished I could have gotten the NAV system,but I was too impatient, Still hate the brake dust and the cupholders.The interior room on this car seems a lot bigger and taller. I am really getting used to the styling.Platinum Silver is awsome.Interior,light grey.Active Steering , Xenon headlights and rain sensors are great.