Re: 530i vs 540i vs 740iL, long please help :) :) (archive)

I was about to buy a BMW X5 3.0i, but I am going to go for a Lexus RX300 because of the gas mileage, plus the RX can go for regular unleaded gasoline, and its smoother ride (quietness). So I am most likely going to get a BMW sedan.
530i vs 540i
-Are the lights different for the front? I have the 530i's, but does the 540i have it?
-I had a Lexus LS400 which was really comfy in the back for my three kids. Do you think the 5-series will be? I know it will be a little smaller. One is a 17 yrs old, while the others are at least 7 years younger.
-I'm worried about the ride of the 5-series. I haven't test driven it yet, but I will in a couple of weeks. I've heard its like driving a sports car. Well I just want it as quiet as the LS400, or close. I know nothing can be as quiet as Lexus (what most people tell me).
-Does anyone know when the new 7 is coming out, I've heard next year? Will the price be the same. I have built it on the BMWUSA site, and mine is about $70k. I might opt for that, or for a 540i which came to be $53k.
-How much better is the 7? I don't really want to drive it when a new shape will come out soon.
-When will the new 5 come out?

AS far as i know the only differences between the 540i and the 530i are the engines and equipment level. The 540 also has a different steering system (recirculating ball vs. rack and pinon on the 530) and a slightly different front suspension. The exteriors of the cars look identical except for different wheels. The five series will be quite a bit smaller than the LS400 in back-seat room. The 740iL's back seat is huge though. Maybee you should look at the 740i, which has a back seat about the same size as the LS400. The 5 series is a little more responsive and fun to drive than the 7 series. The 530i in particular feels very nimble and agile. The 540 feels a little more stable and luxurious than the 530, kinda like a mix between the 530 and the 7 series. The 5 series cars equipped with the sport package are very fun to drive and they handle great. In terms of quietness, the 7 series is a very quiet car. Maybe not as quiet as an LS400, but really close. The 5 series is a little bit louder, but still quiet. The new 7 series is expected to come out in fall 2001 as a 2002 model. The new 5 is expected to come out in late 2002 as a 2003 model. Also, why don't you consider a Lexus LS430 or a Mercedes S-class? They are also great cars. Hope this helps, Good Luck.

nrj
97 740iL

Follow Ups:

[ Follow Ups ] [ 7-series Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]

Questions, comments, or problems, please visit the Roadfly help desk.