2004 5 Series interior

[yuanja]

I am considering getting a 2004 530i over a MB E320. Being a real estate broker, luxury of the interior is important. A quick comparison between the interior finish of a standard E320 and the 5 series quickly indicates that the 5 feels "plastic" and "cheap". The interior of the new 5 series feels slightly nice than my 96 Z3. not more.

Can anyone with the woodtrim and other upgraded interior please comment? If you have a picture of what you have, that will be great. (I still love the drive and handling of BMW)

 

[goheels34]

Sorry I don't have the new 530, but I have a 2001 530 with wood trim and the fixin'. I did manage to check out the new 530. I agree, BMW could do a lot more to make the interior more stylish. Personally I don't even like the wood trim. Makes me feel old. Ha!!! The interior of the 320 is slightly better, but not by much. After driving in both the 320 and 530 I would still pick the 530. Seeing that you're a Z3 driver, I'm sure you know BMW can't be matched when it comes to handling. Good luck with your shopping! Let me know what you get.

 

[DanBerk]

I really don't agree. I think the MB feels far more cheap.

What interior are you looking at? Make sure you look at a new 5 with the sports package, premium package and the dark wood, not the brown wood accent.

 

[Jewels530i]

I think it compares favorably with the 320. Mine is black with anthracite and it is very sharp. We looked at the 320 also and when optioned up I think it does have a more luxo demeanor. The 5 on the other hand puts out a more modern and sporty feeling in the cabin. On the road the five is a lot more fun to drive IMO. I would recommend checking out the black interior. It is the most restrained when combined with the interior styling.

 

[yuanja]

In terms of handling, E320 is no match to the 530. MB feels heavier and slower-responsive. However, it does offer a mature look for a young real estate broker. I guess when I drive clients arround, image is very important.

now adding TL to the candidate lists, as it is packed with good Nav and Cell phone features.

 

[goheels34]

Personally I don't think it's gonna make a difference if it's a MB or a Bimmer. Just the fact you drive in a German car should impress the clients. The MB does have a more mature look, but dude you're young! Why don't you get the best of both worlds and get the bimmer. You'll look cool going out on the town and you'll look classy with your clients. Sometimes after a stressful day it's nice to shred the tires apart. He He He! Can't do that in a MB unless it's an AMG. Anyway, good luck with your car search. Let me know what you end up getting.

 

[Jewels530i]

We posted a picture of our interior under active steering problem on page 3. Black, anthracite wood.

 

[jxp3]

I personally like the 530 look. I guess when you are talking about the $ you really can not go wrong with MB or BMW. Its matter of choice and your own style. When I was shopping for my car, I was also looking at the E320 and 530. After taking the two cars out for a test drive the same day, I decided to go with BMW. I just felt in love with the drive. Let us know how you make out.