Winter driving

[dsteinbronn]

I need some advice on a couple of things.

First, someone posted below about driving a 540 in snow without snow tires and the consensus was pretty clear. My quetion is related...is driving a 540 in snow with snow tires reasonable or still pretty difficult?

Second, I am considering purchasing a recent model 540 vs. a slightly older M5 (probably with more miles) and want to spend around 40-45 K. Does anyone have any opinions on which to get?

Thanks in advance.

 

[jnyost]

I have four coworkers that drive the Bimmers no matter what. 3 of them live over 40 miles away and say that they have no problems in the snow.

late 90's 740
late 90's 540
2003 330
1997 528

The guy with the 528 is the only one that lives close. Everyone else has been pretty happy.

 

[pargolf]

I have driven a 540i 6 speed with snow tires for several Connecticut winters. I can't recall ever having a problem. If there is going to be alot of snow, I will put some added weight in the trunk.

My friend has a 2001 M5 with snow tires that he drives 30 miles a day with not problems.

I currently have both the 540i 6 speed and a 2004 545i 6 speed. On several occations, I have switched cars with my friend for several days. The M5 is a beast but a very loud and rough ride even when it is not in 'sport' mode. It is fun for a few days but I perfer my 545i. I would buy a newer 540i 6 speed over an older M5. But owning both a 540 and 545, I would highly recommend the 545i 6 speed with the active-stirring.

 

[dsteinbronn]

Thanks for the input, jnyost and pargolf. I have heard rumors that there will soon be an all wheel drive option for the 5-series. Can anybody confirm this? If it is true does anyone know when it will be available? If an all wheel drive model comes out, would anyone recommend it over a rear wheel model with snow tires?