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Re: GS300 vs 540i
Thanks, Larry, and everyone else who responded (I'm still wading through
the responses!) Lots of good tips on prices, the [potential] V8 engine
problems, etc. . . I knew I would get a BMW-bias, so to speak, by
asking this question here, but have none the less found all the
responses insightful and a help in processing this decision.
Based in large part on several replies about the V8 engine issue and
some grounding in reality from my wife (the banker), I have begun to
take the advice of some responders to look at the earlier 535i and 525i
as alternatives to the 540i. A local dealer here has a 1990 535i that
appears to be in good shape with low miles. It's older than I was
looking for (I was originally looking for a '92 535i when I stumbled on
the 540i), but much easier on the pocket book. Nice styling, too. Any
thoughts on:
1) the '90 535i
2) the '92 535i
3) the '92 525i
And let me conclude with the ultimate question. If you have $25,000 or
less to spend on a 5-series BMW, which year/model would it be, and
why???
Thanks again to everyone for all the great replies so far. I will be
making a decision in October.
Further replies appreciated!
Bob
Larry Seiden wrote:
>
> Bob and friends,
>
> While I drive a 95 M3, my wife's car is 94 Lexus GS 300. Others can comment
> on the 540i (for my dollar, it would be my choice). Someone several Digests
> ago said, once you own a BMW, you are hooked for life (or something close to
> that). I know what they are talking about.
>
> The GS 300 is fine automobile. It's Italian heritage gives it a unique look.
> The reliability and quality of Lexus engineering is written all over the
> vehicle. The Nak (and even stock) sound system literally, blows the doors off
> anything Munich can put together. The car is extremely comfortable. The
> interior is tasteful. They haven't sold alot of them, so there is a
> uniqueness to them. The Lexus badge in your driveway says "success." The GS
> 300 has all the bells and whistles you'll ever need. For my speed and
> acceleration cravings, it's a tad underpowered (make that alot underpowered)
> compared to the 540i. Bottom line. my wife loves it. However, driving it
> does not impart an exciting, "I-am-one-with-my-car" experience.
>
> A BMW is a car for someone who loves to drive. Loves the feeling of speed,
> control and seamless integration of man/woman and machine. Someone on this
> Digest once described driving their M3 as an intuitive extension of
> themselves.
>
> Of course, every one on this list is going to be biased toward the BMW.
> However, you will make your choice based on your needs and values. The Lexus
> dealers are on the high side for service dollars, but the quality of work
> performed and treatment they give their customers warrant it. I can't comment
> on the expected service costs of a 540i, but there are more non-dealer avenues
> for you to pursue for service than exist for Lexus. You can e-mail privately
> if you have more questions.
>
> Larry Seiden
> 95 M3 ready to rip and roar