Which would be the better car to get. Obviously the 550i seems better because it is newer but I have some more details:
The 550i needs a small fix with a dent on the hood.
Both have low miles.
Both have Sport Package.
Which would you get?
Thanks
Maybe just your personal choice, re colour and or options or service history
both cars could experience similar issues in the future.
">'85 Mlite E30, '98 E36, 1998 528i, 5 spd manual, black on black, sold in 2012 and still going past 350Kkms, now MYSTIC Blue 2004 545i, 6 spd Steptr., Adaptive steering and Xenons, Anti dazzle mirrors. Aux+Belt-Chime+Dig speedo+iDrive discl. 2007 TCU+BT Coded+Sure BT Board
Prices on each? A dent is minor... 07 had some of the early kinks worked out... and the 550i is a monster
RIP Jess or the idea of Jess or... what OT was.. or whatever...
The 550i is around $8500 and the 545 is $7500. The dent does look pretty minor and i’ve heard the 550i is pretty good on the road, but for $1000 cheaper and no repairs necessary the 545i still seems like a good option too.
Get the 550 ... costs a little more but the resale might make up for that down the road. Plus, think about what you'd regret. if you get the 545 would you regret not getting a 550? or vice versa?
Which would I get? Neither if they're automatics, or if I lived where it snows. But that's just me.
Well they wil both leak oil from the same areas
Do not get a 545. Search for secondary air passages and you'll see why.
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ASE and BMW Master Certified Technician
I would want to know a lot more about both vehicles with a PPI before making that decision.
I had an 05 545i - first, check for smoke at idle. If any smoke, move on because its probably valve stems, and that is easily $2k+ even with an Indy. Next, look for oil leaks, especially around the alternator. Mine blew on the road, but luckily I was able to get to my mechanic. Next, check the cooling system and see if there is weeping of coolant out the front weep hole. If so, your coolant pipe is bad, and needs attention. Not a huge deal because you can fix it yourself inexpensively with bimmerfix. Other than that, expect a lot of minor issues, especially electronics.
My 545 was my 5th bimmer, so I was ready for it. You have to be handy with a wrench our else it will be too expensive to own. Good luck with your choice, because they are really great cars to drive! I now have an 06 M5, and in many ways I miss the everyday ease of driving the 545. Active steering, while not suited for racing, is really nimble on the road, and makes the car feel 500 pounds lighter than it is. Enough said - if all is equal, get the 550 as it is just a better model.
Last edited by Johnbennett103; 01-23-2018 at 07:46 PM.
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