Looking for Advice 525xi -vs- 530xi

Folks,

I would really appreciate some feedback on this one:

I have a 2002 530i with about 25k miles on it. I've decided I'd really like a car with Sat radio and navigation, as well as AWD. I've driven both the 525xi and 530xi and really could not tell a difference in horsepower/performance. Especially over my current 530... Granted, the test drive was mainly on residential streets, but tough to discern any real difference. So, my first question is... Is the 530i worth the extra money? Long term will I regret going with the 525i? My driving is about 60% highway 40% local.

Also, what can I expect to get on my 530i (cold weather, xenons) as a trade in.(I live in NJ) Finally... What is considered a good deal on the 525xi and 530xi with Nav and sat?

Many, many thanks in advance for any guidance....

Reply » Looking for Advice 525xi -vs- 530xi

I need a wagon, so I didn't have any choice - just had to get the 530!!

All depends on how you like to drive I think. Your "header" says you have an Audi A6 2.7t. I had the same car and currently drive an Audi allroad with 2.7t. I think the Audi will feel considerably more powerful than the 525. The 530xiT I test drove felt very similar in accelleration to my Audi - so I was more than happy with it.

One other thing to consider if you are leasing. The lease rate on the 530xi is slightly lower than for the 525xi. The lease rate on the 530xiT is A LOT lower - I guess BMW wants to lease wagons. It's possible that a 530xiT lease will cost the same or maybe even less than a 525xi. Also, I think the wagon looks better too!!

Either way you go though....nice cars!

Reply » Looking for Advice 525xi -vs- 530xi

Quote:

Folks,

I would really appreciate some feedback on this one:

Is the 530i worth the extra money?

Yes. Without question.

Reply » Looking for Advice 525xi -vs- 530xi

Thanks folks,

Now I'll add one more?? 530xi or Acura RL? I'm having a tough time figuring out which one, and the RL is slowly starting to win based on price. It's 10K less that the 530xi with SAT and NAV.

Would love to hear some pros/cons....

Reply » Looking for Advice 525xi -vs- 530xi

Have you driven the RL? Only you can tell if you'll like it or not. Me thinks that you are comparing two very, very different cars.

Reply » Looking for Advice 525xi -vs- 530xi

Quote:

Have you driven the RL? Only you can tell if you'll like it or not. Me thinks that you are comparing two very, very different cars.

I have driven both, and I humbly think BMW and all of us need to wake up to the fact that they finally have a serious issue on their hands. The RL isn't quite a BMW, but it sure seems pretty damn close. Let’s say this, I'm finding it hard to justify the 10K premium for the 530xi, but still on the fence...

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