I currently own a 3rd gen GS,and wants to purchase another car, a used one. The choice is either an 03-04 E320 or 04 BMW 525I, what do you guys think?

 

Curious to know why you want another much less powerful midsize sedan to your current 3GS? I'd recommened the E but the reliablity is poor. The 525 is overpriced and slow and I just don't like the looks of it.

 

Actually the car will not be for me, it will be for my sister, since she wants to change her car from an ML 350 to a sedan.
And since she always borrow my GS, I was thinking of getting a sedan that we both will like, and a diferrent brand to what I have.

 

525i. I would pick slow over reliability issues lol. Besides, it looks nicer.

 

+1 for the 5 series. I actually love their look.

 

What's the price range you are looking for? There should be other options out there that you can consider.

 

Thanks, for the replies. Well our budget is around $ 40,000, and maybe $42,000 max.

 

on the 5 series try and get a decent warranty because with the bmw electronics SOMETHING will go wrong.

still a better choice than the E320, too many ppl i know have trans/trans mount issues with those cars (at least the slightly earlier models did).


but again, why confine yourself to these 2 cars? a Different Brand than Lexus (god knows why but w/e) is a LOT more than just Mercedes. Theres the Audi S4/6 and the best SUV imho in the sub 0k the Volvo XC90 (until the new tundra based SUVs start rollin out)

or if u want a sedan why not go for a Infinity G/M35 or slightly older Q45.

 

Do you really need a mid-size sedan? For 40K you can go for a new car, like a 335i (or a 330i if you are happy with the performance). The S4 is nice but is a gas hog, and the regular A4 2.0T is overpriced. The Passat 3.6 is actually a pretty nice car, but lease it instead of buy it because the depreciation is horrible. Don't get the S60, as it's too much money for too little space, and the 5-cylinder engine is just too rough for your taste if your sister likes your Lexus. How about the upcoming Infiniti G35 or a used M35?

The reliability issues on BMWs is way over-exaggerated here, just like how people on the BMW board over-exaggerate the lack of performance of a Lexus.

 

hahaha... that statement is so true..

 

For 40K you have more than a couple of choices and as a few members suggested you can get a brand new car which in my opinion will only benefit you. I know you are not interested in getting another Lexus but how about the new ES350. If not then you can get a fully loaded Acura TL or the upcoming 07 Infiniti G35. Good Luck in your decision.

 

I'd go for an Infiniti M45, but if you must choose between E320 and 525, then the E320 hands down. Much better interior, much more powerful engine. Reliability can be an issue with both, but so is with any other car.

 

AUDI 2.0t QUATTRO...!!!!!!!

 

how many people do you know that drive new(ish) bmw's (02+) that havent gone back at least once or twice for some kind of electrical issue?

 

my friend's 06 530i with 2000 miles now has gone back to dealer for electric problem 3 times..