M5 concerns - questions for the group... (archive)

Hey all... I've got a 2000 328i Sport Sedan. Due to a recent financial windfall combined with a rash of promotions at work, I have paid off my car and am in the market for a new one. Ideally, I want a 2001 M3 Sedan, but we can safely say that the M3 Sedan won't be out in 2001, and if it ever comes out, it will be 2002 or even later.

From what I understand of the M5 vs the M3, the M3 will be faster 0-60 and 0-100, and will handle better being a smaller, lighter car. To me, the e46 M3 is a superior car. It's just unfortunate that there is no sedan version. The big advantage of the M5 seems to be the bigger interior size. What other advantages am I missing?

That being said, I'd like to hear some thoughts about the M5:

how does the M5 handle? How much handling is sacrificed moving to the larger car?

since I can't really test-drive an M5, would you guys recommend driving a 540i as a comparison car? How does the 540i handling compare to the M5?

any comments about acceleration vs. the new M3?

I'm honestly not trying to start a flame-war vs. the e46 M3. I have been fighting this upgrade dilema since I first purchased my car (I didn't really want the 328i, but due to my previous car being stolen I had to get a car ASAP and couldn't wait for an M5 or the new M3). Now I'm six months into the car, and it's getting to be decision time.

Any feedback would be much appreciated.

Thank you,
jedinite
bmw.jedinite.com

Follow Ups:

Re: M5 concerns - questions for the group... Al 00:10 9/24/2000 (0)
Re: M5 concerns (Long) M 15:26 9/23/2000 (0)

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