Now now now now.... I have owned both and... (archive)

C32 and M5 are completely different cars. They're both GREAT cars but IMHO you can't compare the two! The C32 is NOT better than the M5, nor is the M5 better than the C32.

C32 +s vs. M5

E36 M3-like handling, very very precise, sticks like glue

Decent ride, not punishingly harsh

COMAND system worlds better than BMW's Nav... an ACTUAL TELEPHONE KEYPAD.

Slushbox for heavy traffic... no going through clutches

The brakes : We're talking Hand of G-d slow-down force here. After putting up with the M5's inadequate brakes these are AWESOME. No fade, no muss, no fuss, plant your foot and all of a sudden you hit an invisible wall.

C32 -s vs. M5

The engine. Yes the C32 has gobs of power. Yes it's very very fast. I don't care if it IS faster than the M5... that V8 is magical... and the engine is half the experience. The V6 just doesn't sound as lusty and even though it screams right up to the redline... it just doesn't feel as good.

The size. M5 is much larger and more luxurious. Much more room. You can travel with 4 in the M5 and not feel cramped, the C32 is a small sedan and you can't get around that

The fit & finish : The M5 was disappointing in some areas but it still felt like quality. The C32 uses some VERY tacky materials in places... I'd expect it in a ~$32k car, NOT a ~$55k car. And the dash, please, who put the Mitsubishi gauges in? I do like the dashboard display much better than the Bimmer tho.

The exterior design : Let's face it. I love my C32, but the M5 was classically elegant and the C32 is beautiful but forgettable.

The slushbox : Speedshift isn't everything it's cracked up to be. It's still an autobox. It's a damn GOOD autobox, but nothing beats a clutch and 6 on the stick.

Do I regret my decision? No, the C32 fits my lifestyle and driving habits in ways the M5 couldn't. Do I miss the M5? You betcha... however I have the feeling that longing will go away with the debut of the new E55. Sorry folks, but Bangle is taking BMW in the WRONG direction, and every reason I had to go back to the Roundel left the moment I saw the new 7, from which design elements trickle down. I think BMW will either be doing a styling rethink in a very few years, or they're going to see their sales evaporate. IMHO I do not EVEN want to see a family based on that 7, much less drive one of the members.

Follow Ups:

Thanks For The Balanced Post Curious 00:33 3/02/2002 (0)

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