Before I begin (regards my wife) - she loves BMW's and loves the 5-series (we drove a 528i the other week, and she is sold). She doesn't think that she will ever get one, but she's sold - last time I surprised her with a vehicle it was an SUV - long story (we still have it), but I don't want to get into it - let's just say how I tire of her saying how much she misses her 1993 Lexus GS300...which I surprised her with as well. I guess I have to stick to sedans with this lady - colors we always agree on, so that is a moot point.

I'm 6 foot 1 and she is 5 10 - not fat (well at least she isn't), but tall :) - anyhow, the new C and the 3-series felt a bit cramped for what we're looking for. Whenever we go out with other couples, we seem to be the drivers - I'm sorry, but you can't pull the seats up in a C or 3 and be comfortable.

Now to a question...my family has owned factory fresh BMW's (I have had a 1986 325 2-door and a 1987 325is). Both great cars - the 86 was totalled...another long story. My father had a 1985 635csi (black with black leather) - drop dead gorgeous car...followed by a 1987 325ic - nice as well. All four of the vehicles were in the shop CONSTANTLY. I mean all the time...electrical, trim - you name it. Will I have better luck with a 2001 5 - it's been awhile, but is it an improved vehicle?

Now to colors...NO CRAP ABOUT LEATHERETTE - IT'S GOING TO BE BLACK ETTE WITH THE FOLLOWING OPTIONS:

1- XENONS
2- IN DASH CD
3- MOONROOF
4- SPORT PACKAGE (CONSIDERING AND WOULD APPRECIATE INPUT AS TO WHETHER IT IS WORTH IS ON THE NEW 525I).

COLORS TO CONSIDER:

1- BLACK (NON-MET)
2- COSMOS BLACK
3- ANTHRACITE
4- SLATE GREEN

GIVE ME ANY AND ALL INPUT - I'M SERIOUS AND WANT TO ORDER THE CAR SO THAT IT ARRIVES IN TIME FOR OUR ANNIVERSARY.

I THINK I'LL LIKE SLATE GREEN IF IT'S MORE SILVERISH THAN GREEN. I'M TAKING A POLL HERE.

ALSO, IF ANYONE KNOWS OF THE BEST DEALMAKER IN FLORIDA LET ME KNOW. OTHERWISE, I'LL DO MY USUAL AND SET MY AUT0-FAX TO FAX EVERY DEALER IN FL AND GA...SEE WHO GETS BACK TO ME WITH THE BEST PRICE- THAT WORKS SO DAMN WELL.