BMW 530i vs. Mercedes CLK 350

18 messages, Last post on Nov 02, 2007 at 4:26 AM

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What is this discussion about? BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class, Sedan

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#17 of 18 Re: 550xi vs. 535xi vs 335i convertible [tx_buzzard] by habitat1 Nov 02, 2007 (3:39 am)
Replying to: tx_buzzard (Nov 01, 2007 1:49 pm) *I was only considering the AWD models for the handling on the twists and turns, and wet pavement from time to time.* There has been a lot of debate on that subject over on the 3 series boards, as well as the "ultimate AWD sport sedan" board. Essentially, you have one group that advocates the benefits of AWD, without considering the disadvantages. And another (which I belong to) that would claim those disadvantages need to be considered. I strongly suggest you drive all the variants of the 5 series or other cars you are considering, before ever concluding that BMW's "x" system improves handling in the twists and turns. That's certainly the opposite of my conclusion. The AWD version gains 200+ lbs, disrpupts the otherwise near perfect 50/50 weight balance, and, in "sport package" form, has a detuned suspension and tire setup, compared to the RWD models. IMO, the RWD 3/5 series are more nimble, quicker and more fun to drive on any dry surface. And it doesn't take much discipline to tone down my driveing in rain to make the RWD very safe. In addition, the AWD versions are 7-10%+ less fuel efficient in the real world, and have more moving parts to maintain and break. You think getting the turbos worked on or replaced might be a little less of a hassel vs. maintaining the V8 after 100K? Don't know - you might want to ask a couple of BMW service managers for their opinions. If the turbos do need to be replaced, I would expect that to be a very expensive job. I remember a business associate that had an old turbo Volvo and when the turbo went, it was a job that cost more than the car was worth at the time ($3,500) and he handed it to Salvation Army. Of course, it may be that the BMW twin turbos are designed with a life expectancy that is considerably longer, and not an issue. Replies to this message: tx_buzzard (Nov 02, 2007 4:26 am)
#18 of 18 Re: 550xi vs. 535xi vs 335i convertible [habitat1] by tx_buzzard Nov 02, 2007 (4:26 am)
Replying to: habitat1 (Nov 02, 2007 3:39 am) Thanks Habitat, I am pretty much on the same page here... but was considering all possibilities. I need some more "hands-on" with the 535i vs. the 335i conv. to firmly make a decision. I am not sure about the seats in the conv., but am really impressed with the opt. seats you can get with the 5 series! Your input has been helpful... thanks again.

#17 of 18: Re: 550xi vs. 535xi vs 335i convertible [tx_buzzard] by habitat1; Nov 02, 2007 (3:39 am)

Replying to: tx_buzzard (Nov 01, 2007 1:49 pm)

I was only considering the AWD models for the handling on the twists and turns, and wet pavement from time to time.

There has been a lot of debate on that subject over on the 3 series boards, as well as the "ultimate AWD sport sedan" board. Essentially, you have one group that advocates the benefits of AWD, without considering the disadvantages. And another (which I belong to) that would claim those disadvantages need to be considered.

I strongly suggest you drive all the variants of the 5 series or other cars you are considering, before ever concluding that BMW's "x" system improves handling in the twists and turns. That's certainly the opposite of my conclusion. The AWD version gains 200+ lbs, disrpupts the otherwise near perfect 50/50 weight balance, and, in "sport package" form, has a detuned suspension and tire setup, compared to the RWD models. IMO, the RWD 3/5 series are more nimble, quicker and more fun to drive on any dry surface. And it doesn't take much discipline to tone down my driveing in rain to make the RWD very safe. In addition, the AWD versions are 7-10%+ less fuel efficient in the real world, and have more moving parts to maintain and break.

You think getting the turbos worked on or replaced might be a little less of a hassel vs. maintaining the V8 after 100K?

Don't know - you might want to ask a couple of BMW service managers for their opinions. If the turbos do need to be replaced, I would expect that to be a very expensive job. I remember a business associate that had an old turbo Volvo and when the turbo went, it was a job that cost more than the car was worth at the time ($3,500) and he handed it to Salvation Army. Of course, it may be that the BMW twin turbos are designed with a life expectancy that is considerably longer, and not an issue.

tx_buzzard (Nov 02, 2007 4:26 am)

#18 of 18: Re: 550xi vs. 535xi vs 335i convertible [habitat1] by tx_buzzard; Nov 02, 2007 (4:26 am)

Replying to: habitat1 (Nov 02, 2007 3:39 am)

Thanks Habitat, I am pretty much on the same page here... but was considering all possibilities. I need some more "hands-on" with the 535i vs. the 335i conv. to firmly make a decision. I am not sure about the seats in the conv., but am really impressed with the opt. seats you can get with the 5 series!

Your input has been helpful... thanks again.