Just got my new 535 after leasing a 2005 545 for three years. I never drove the 535 before ordering it - just got it because I loved my 545. I was shocked at how much better the 535 was! Better in every way than the 545. Substantially smoother, quieter and more refined than the 545 and much better gas mileage. Handles better and is at least as quick also. I got both cars with sport package and active steering.

Wow, brave man. :)

Luckily you did not drive the 550, no just kidding. Congrats and best of luck on the new ride.

Wow, brave man. :)

Luckily you did not drive the 550, no just kidding. Congrats and best of luck on the new ride.

lol. I agree though. The exhaust sound on the 550i is second to none, and the lack of turbo lag. I do love my 535, and the 550i is really only 1/10th of a second faster. But there is something special about the 550i, other that the price tag. lol.

Actually, I'm not sure I would want the 550. I think one of the reasons the car is so much smoother is the inline 6. Coupled with the weight reduction it offers up front as well as the spec of 1/10 second difference - I asssume I would be happier with the 535. Now that I have some miles on it - I can confirm that the car feels noticiably quicker than the 545. Oh, and the transmission is SO MUCH BETTER than the 545 - which was really crude by comparison. I am truly blown away by this car, and it is my 5th bmw. I loved my 545 and before I picked this car up I was trying to really enjoy my last few days with it because I thought there was a possiblity I would not like the 535 as well. Well - no contest - the 535 is a truly awesome all around machine.

Well again you had one of the first e60 5er's, alot overall has been inproved. The 550 is a completely different car from the 545 in many ways. I drove the 535 and the 550 before the m5 and i have to say my choices would be the M5,550,535,545,530...JUST MY .02