BMW Yes! Budget allows either 2006 330i or 2006 525i: Which one?

PoliticalAid007 · 02-16-2006, 12:39 AM

I realize this is an E90 Forum, but in reading the posts, I have found that everyone is pretty much professional and helpful on this forum.

Okay, here is the scenario. I have a budget, and I need to stay within my budget. My budget limit is $51,000 including 8 Percent sales tax. So, here are my BMW choices:
2006 330i,
Sparkling Graphite
Gray interior
automatic
sport package
premium package
navigation
Logic 7 Sound System
comfort access
sirius satellite radio
heated front seats
Price OUT THE DOOR, including 8 % sales tax and license fees is $47,500.

2006 525i
Silver Gray/Black Interior
Automatic
Sport Package
Premium Package
Navigation
Xeons
Price OUT THE DOOR, including 8% sales tax and license fees is $51,000

I am single, mostly I am in the car by myself or one other person, But, there are definite times I have one or two adults in the back seat for road trips.

Which one would you buy and why?

Thank you.

siriusinvestor · 02-16-2006, 12:41 AM

Well the answer to this question all depends on your current personal situtation. Are you married? Have any children? If the answer to both of those questions is no, then your answer is simple. 330i. I personally think that the 525i is underpowered. If it was the 530i then I would say go for the 530i. I don't know maybe I am bias, going to the 525i would be a downgrade in my book, even though the price range is similar, the power difference is still pretty substantial. Those objectors can say all they want but 40 hp difference is a prety good gap.

db17k · 02-16-2006, 12:52 AM

do you like to drive fast! and fast on twisty roads? if so check 330i, have a nice day

cdheaven · 02-16-2006, 01:03 AM

i personally went to the dealership to buy a 525. i couldnt justify spending the money right now(22 years old, just started my own business, wasnt sure of my future finances). as of right now im set on a 5 series as my next car. i had a small little girl in my back seat the other night, and she complained about getting in and out of my car. i personally, would perfer a bigger car.

Petercat · 02-16-2006, 10:15 AM

525 feels underpowered to me. If you want room, it's the right car, but if you are comfortable in the 330, get it. The 330 has a greater balance of everything than the 525, a very rewarding drive.
If you're all about the comfort and a good driving experience... The 5 is it. Drop some options and spend the money on the 530 though.

Matt_UKTX · 02-16-2006, 10:19 AM

Ditch the grey interior on the SG. Go with Terra and Aluminium. It looks awesome.

Quote:

Originally Posted by PoliticalAid007

I realize this is an E90 Forum, but in reading the posts, I have found that everyone is pretty much professional and helpful on this forum.

Okay, here is the scenario. I have a budget, and I need to stay within my budget. My budget limit is $51,000 including 8 Percent sales tax. So, here are my BMW choices:
2006 330i,
Sparkling Graphite
Gray interior
automatic
sport package
premium package
navigation
Logic 7 Sound System
comfort access
sirius satellite radio
heated front seats
Price OUT THE DOOR, including 8 % sales tax and license fees is $47,500.

2006 525i
Silver Gray/Black Interior
Automatic
Sport Package
Premium Package
Navigation
Xeons
Price OUT THE DOOR, including 8% sales tax and license fees is $51,000

I am single, mostly I am in the car by myself or one other person, But, there are definite times I have one or two adults in the back seat for road trips.

Which one would you buy and why?

Thank you.

imageWIS · 02-16-2006, 10:20 AM

330i. First off, the 3-Series looks nicer than the 5-Series. Secondly it has more power, yet is a smaller car, which makes it faster. As well, you will have more options, which means more convenience. I think this is a hand’s down no-contest decision.

Jon.

KL2DC · 02-16-2006, 10:34 AM

I think its a tougher choice than it appears ... there are enough compelling reasons between the two to argue out until the cows come home....

I think in day-to-day driving, the peformance differential between the two is not such a pivotal point and all the basic goodness of the e90 is evident in the e60 i.e. feel, handling etc. So it'll have to come down to requirements, personal preferences and financial considerations.

When in doubt, always go with the coolest/best car you can afford ...

good luck with your choice ... p.s. I'd go with the e60

...imho, a bottom rung e60 sounds more appealing than a top rung e90 ... not because of badge snobbery etc ... rather the e60 would have been engineered at/for a higher price point.

ap1994 · 02-16-2006, 10:54 AM

I wouldnt touch a 525i. Not enough power by any means. I didnt even like the 530i. If I was going to buy a 5 the only one I could justify is the 550i. If you cant afford that then dont bother

Seriously you have to do whatever fits your needs in the end.

I bought a 330i because I felt like the 5 was a slow, but safe although uninspiring family sedan. Liked the way the 3 drove better.

Good luck.
Andy

Enroutte · 02-16-2006, 11:04 AM

330i.

525 isn't worth your money. it lacks hp

JackMac · 02-16-2006, 11:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Enroutte

330i.

525 isn't worth your money. it lacks hp

...

Enroutte · 02-16-2006, 11:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JackMac

...

ben1364 · 02-16-2006, 11:28 AM

I don't see how anyone on this forum can get inside your head and provide objective advice re the decision you face. The cars are different in appearance, dimensions and appointments. Anything that any of us might offer would be rooted in our biases. I have owned both 5 series and 3 series BMWs. Both are good for different reasons.

ben1364 · 02-16-2006, 11:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Enroutte

330i.

525 isn't worth your money. it lacks hp

The current 525i has the same engine as the current 325i.

Enroutte · 02-16-2006, 11:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ben1364

The current 525i has the same engine as the current 325i.

and the 525 is also bigger.

brian32e · 02-16-2006, 12:33 PM

and heavier

Quote:

Originally Posted by Enroutte

and the 525 is also bigger.

bimmer4me · 02-16-2006, 01:35 PM

330i. No contest.

525i for 2 adult passengers every so often isn't worth it. The 330i has enough room for 2 adult passengers comfortably anyway.

In other words, there is no benefit the 525i has over the 330i for your situation.

Tweak48 · 02-16-2006, 01:52 PM

I went through exactly the buying decision 6 weeks ago you are now. Contrary to some, I think the "5" is a way cool vehicle. I ordered (and am taking delivery today) a 330i for the following reasons:

1. I'd have to step up clear to a 550 to exceed the performance of the 330, which is way out of my league price wise.
2. I highly value the Logic 7 stereo and Xenons, which are options on the 525
3. Vinyl seats (err, Leatherette) on a $42500 car?

4. I drive or Servotronic steering is not a big "must have" to me
5. The rear passenger space would be nice, but would be used infrequently, as I mainly do "point and shoot" commuting with my car

The 330 was no doubt the sweet spot for me given my needs and budget.

Carnage · 02-16-2006, 03:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ap1994

I wouldnt touch a 525i. Not enough power by any means. I didnt even like the 530i. If I was going to buy a 5 the only one I could justify is the 550i. If you cant afford that then dont bother

Seriously you have to do whatever fits your needs in the end.

I bought a 330i because I felt like the 5 was a slow, but safe although uninspiring family sedan. Liked the way the 3 drove better.

Good luck.
Andy

My thoughts exactly. I test drove a 525 and a 530 and settled on the 330i. I have a wife and kid and room in the 330 is not an issue so for someone who is single, it's a even better choice.

Ethirtynine · 02-16-2006, 03:25 PM

I'd definitely buy the 330i. The only reason why I would suggest you getting the 525i is if you absolutely love the styling over the 330i. Other than that, the 330i is by far the better car

Casey 5 · 02-16-2006, 04:12 PM

If you go with a 525i you will have to check your ego because the 330i's will be blowing your doors off--so will the 325i's--they have the same engine but are much lighter!!

If you have 51,000 wait and get a 335i--in short, choose a BMW that will allow you to LEAD not FOLLOW.

ben1364 · 02-16-2006, 04:46 PM

I hope that the above responses are helpful though I doubt it. It's your decision to make, my friend.

02-16-2006, 12:39 AM	#1
PoliticalAid007 New Member 5 Rep 5 Posts Drives: camry Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: California iTrader: (0)	BMW Yes! Budget allows either 2006 330i or 2006 525i: Which one? I realize this is an E90 Forum, but in reading the posts, I have found that everyone is pretty much professional and helpful on this forum. Okay, here is the scenario. I have a budget, and I need to stay within my budget. My budget limit is $51,000 including 8 Percent sales tax. So, here are my BMW choices: 2006 330i, Sparkling Graphite Gray interior automatic sport package premium package navigation Logic 7 Sound System comfort access sirius satellite radio heated front seats Price OUT THE DOOR, including 8 % sales tax and license fees is $47,500. 2006 525i Silver Gray/Black Interior Automatic Sport Package Premium Package Navigation Xeons Price OUT THE DOOR, including 8% sales tax and license fees is $51,000 I am single, mostly I am in the car by myself or one other person, But, there are definite times I have one or two adults in the back seat for road trips. Which one would you buy and why? Thank you.
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02-16-2006, 12:41 AM	#2
siriusinvestor Captain 67 Rep 873 Posts Drives: 1989 Ugo Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: US iTrader: (2)	Well the answer to this question all depends on your current personal situtation. Are you married? Have any children? If the answer to both of those questions is no, then your answer is simple. 330i. I personally think that the 525i is underpowered. If it was the 530i then I would say go for the 530i. I don't know maybe I am bias, going to the 525i would be a downgrade in my book, even though the price range is similar, the power difference is still pretty substantial. Those objectors can say all they want but 40 hp difference is a prety good gap.
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02-16-2006, 12:52 AM	#3
db17k Chicketeh china the chinese chicken, you have? 34 Rep 790 Posts Drives: 335ci hold out Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: San Francisco iTrader: (0) Garage List 2003 S2000 [0.00]	do you like to drive fast! and fast on twisty roads? if so check 330i, have a nice day __________________ "In Soviet Russia car forks you!"
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02-16-2006, 01:03 AM	#4
cdheaven I'm Starving , So I Guess You Are What You Eat 229 Rep 943 Posts Drives: 2006 325i Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Ft. Lauderdale, Fl iTrader: (1)	i personally went to the dealership to buy a 525. i couldnt justify spending the money right now(22 years old, just started my own business, wasnt sure of my future finances). as of right now im set on a 5 series as my next car. i had a small little girl in my back seat the other night, and she complained about getting in and out of my car. i personally, would perfer a bigger car. __________________ 2006 325i Sparkling Graphite Metallic-Black Leatherette Navigation-Bmw Assist Automatic-Xenons Carbon Fiber Front Lips-Aluminum Pedals Power/heated Front Seats 5% Tint all around 30% On windshield all the way down
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02-16-2006, 10:15 AM	#5
Petercat Cat Herder 8 Rep 274 Posts Drives: LR3, again... Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Mpls, MN iTrader: (0)	525 feels underpowered to me. If you want room, it's the right car, but if you are comfortable in the 330, get it. The 330 has a greater balance of everything than the 525, a very rewarding drive. If you're all about the comfort and a good driving experience... The 5 is it. Drop some options and spend the money on the 530 though. __________________ Waiting for my e93.
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02-16-2006, 10:20 AM	#7
imageWIS Audi Roamer… 7 Rep 221 Posts Drives: 06' Audi A4 2.0T Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Boca Raton, FL iTrader: (0)	330i. First off, the 3-Series looks nicer than the 5-Series. Secondly it has more power, yet is a smaller car, which makes it faster. As well, you will have more options, which means more convenience. I think this is a hand’s down no-contest decision. Jon. __________________ Die Gedanken sind frei Sucker love is heaven sent. You pucker up, our passion’s spent. My hearts a tart, your body’s rent. My body’s broken, yours is spent.
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02-16-2006, 10:34 AM	#8
KL2DC Moderator 318 Rep 17,767 Posts Drives: F36 428i,E90 328i, E85 Z4 3.0i Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: DC Metro iTrader: (23) Garage List 2015 F36 428i [0.00] 2011 E90 328i [0.00] 2006 E85 Z4 3.0i [0.00]	I think its a tougher choice than it appears ... there are enough compelling reasons between the two to argue out until the cows come home.... I think in day-to-day driving, the peformance differential between the two is not such a pivotal point and all the basic goodness of the e90 is evident in the e60 i.e. feel, handling etc. So it'll have to come down to requirements, personal preferences and financial considerations. When in doubt, always go with the coolest/best car you can afford ... good luck with your choice ... p.s. I'd go with the e60 ...imho, a bottom rung e60 sounds more appealing than a top rung e90 ... not because of badge snobbery etc ... rather the e60 would have been engineered at/for a higher price point. __________________ Official DC Metro Registry - Current, New & Prospective Area Members Roll Call!
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02-16-2006, 10:54 AM	#9
ap1994 Private 7 Rep 93 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 330i Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Middlebury, CT iTrader: (0)	I wouldnt touch a 525i. Not enough power by any means. I didnt even like the 530i. If I was going to buy a 5 the only one I could justify is the 550i. If you cant afford that then dont bother Seriously you have to do whatever fits your needs in the end. I bought a 330i because I felt like the 5 was a slow, but safe although uninspiring family sedan. Liked the way the 3 drove better. Good luck. Andy __________________ 330i Titanium Silver, Black, Aluminum trim, Comfort Access, Heated Seats, Sport, Bluetooth, Nav, Sat prep
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02-16-2006, 11:04 AM	#10
Enroutte Private First Class 172 Rep 160 Posts Drives: ;D Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Undecided. iTrader: (0)	330i. 525 isn't worth your money. it lacks hp
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02-16-2006, 11:28 AM	#13
ben1364 Captain 14 Rep 940 Posts Drives: E90 330iA Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Georgetown, TX iTrader: (0)	I don't see how anyone on this forum can get inside your head and provide objective advice re the decision you face. The cars are different in appearance, dimensions and appointments. Anything that any of us might offer would be rooted in our biases. I have owned both 5 series and 3 series BMWs. Both are good for different reasons.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

02-16-2006, 01:35 PM	#17
bimmer4me Captain 52 Rep 996 Posts Drives: 2006 330i Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Northern Virginia iTrader: (0) Garage List 2006 330i [0.00]	330i. No contest. 525i for 2 adult passengers every so often isn't worth it. The 330i has enough room for 2 adult passengers comfortably anyway. In other words, there is no benefit the 525i has over the 330i for your situation. __________________ 2006 330i Monaco Blue \| Grey \| Walnut ...Manual \| Sports \| Premium \| Cold \| Nav \| Comfort Access \| PDC \| Sirius \| Sunshade ...M-Tec Steering Wheel \| M-Tec Shifter \| TLC ...Performance Center Delivery \| Oct 14, 2005
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02-16-2006, 01:52 PM	#18
Tweak48 Private 2 Rep 64 Posts Drives: 2006 Electric Red 330i Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Seattle iTrader: (0)	I went through exactly the buying decision 6 weeks ago you are now. Contrary to some, I think the "5" is a way cool vehicle. I ordered (and am taking delivery today) a 330i for the following reasons: 1. I'd have to step up clear to a 550 to exceed the performance of the 330, which is way out of my league price wise. 2. I highly value the Logic 7 stereo and Xenons, which are options on the 525 3. Vinyl seats (err, Leatherette) on a $42500 car? 4. I drive or Servotronic steering is not a big "must have" to me 5. The rear passenger space would be nice, but would be used infrequently, as I mainly do "point and shoot" commuting with my car The 330 was no doubt the sweet spot for me given my needs and budget.
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02-16-2006, 03:25 PM	#20
Ethirtynine Second Lieutenant 6 Rep 223 Posts Drives: 2004 Honda S2000 Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Colorado iTrader: (4)	I'd definitely buy the 330i. The only reason why I would suggest you getting the 525i is if you absolutely love the styling over the 330i. Other than that, the 330i is by far the better car
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02-16-2006, 04:12 PM	#21
Casey 5 Second Lieutenant 8 Rep 256 Posts Drives: E90 335i,SPG,ZSP,ZPP,Step Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Chapel Hill, NC iTrader: (0)	If you go with a 525i you will have to check your ego because the 330i's will be blowing your doors off--so will the 325i's--they have the same engine but are much lighter!! If you have 51,000 wait and get a 335i--in short, choose a BMW that will allow you to LEAD not FOLLOW.
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02-16-2006, 04:46 PM	#22
ben1364 Captain 14 Rep 940 Posts Drives: E90 330iA Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Georgetown, TX iTrader: (0)	I hope that the above responses are helpful though I doubt it. It's your decision to make, my friend.
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