Looking to buy '05 , 530i
- Thread starter cedanford
- Start date
tool fan said:
Buying a 530i without the sports package would be like buying a Bike with no wheels. I have driven both and I bought the sports package....makes a world of performance difference. Good luck and ![[welcome]](/images/smilies/icon_smile_welcome.gif "Welcome [welcome]")
[bmwdance]
[bmwdance]
I would say that's an extreme analogy. I'm looking to lease a 530i without the sports package and I think it drives great. I have yet to test drive the sports pkg though.
I have a 545 without the sports package it handles beautifully. That being said, everyone I've ever spoken w/ who has the SP loves it. I personally did not care for the feel (or relative lack of feel) of the Active Steering. But that is me, plenty of folks love the AS. Go spend as much time as you can in both before making your decision. As for the runflats, I have heard lots of less than flattering comments about the ride and noise. Many folks have switched back to regular tires and have commented on how much better the car feels after the change.
That is because he drives 130mph on a daily basis. When travelling at high speeds, the sport suspension does make the car noticeably tighter.
Overall, I think Sport or Non Sport, both are great options. If you really want better ride comfort, then get it without the Sport Package. But the car is a 5-series so even with the Sport Package it should be comfy enough for anyone. The Comfort Seats are exactly that, extremely comfortable. The standard sport seats are a lot more fun during sporty driving, but can make getting in and out of the car a bit more difficult. Your best bet is to try each setup on for size and see what suits you best. It is clear where tool fan and I stand on this issue.![[:D]](/images/smilies/biggrin.png "Big Grin [:D]")
Overall, I think Sport or Non Sport, both are great options. If you really want better ride comfort, then get it without the Sport Package. But the car is a 5-series so even with the Sport Package it should be comfy enough for anyone. The Comfort Seats are exactly that, extremely comfortable. The standard sport seats are a lot more fun during sporty driving, but can make getting in and out of the car a bit more difficult. Your best bet is to try each setup on for size and see what suits you best. It is clear where tool fan and I stand on this issue.
I just took delivery on a 2005 530i last week without the sports package. Living in the northeast with a sports package is an absolute no-no. BMW warns of the
vulnerability of a sports suspension, low profile tires. New England especially is no place for this kind of high end performance, as one runs the risk of damaging front end parts. Believe me the 530i as is, is a fabulous vehicle with no need for the sports pk. Buyers need to think this option through very carefully. I myself spent 3 months weighing out this option. Good luck!
vulnerability of a sports suspension, low profile tires. New England especially is no place for this kind of high end performance, as one runs the risk of damaging front end parts. Believe me the 530i as is, is a fabulous vehicle with no need for the sports pk. Buyers need to think this option through very carefully. I myself spent 3 months weighing out this option. Good luck!