i am at a point where i am choosing between selling my e36 m3 for a new e39? m5. just test drove it today for ten miles, and it felt very nice.

not sporty at all despite what you may read (the s2000 spoils me there anyway), but very capable and that v8 just feels like it is dying to reach 7500rpms....i didnt really push hard (4000rpms max) just in case i really do buy it, but the m3 just does everything so well, i am having a hard time justifying it. especially since i only have 37k on the m3 to date (5 years old now).

but it is sooo damn nice to drive. and it makes me feel grown up all of a sudden

opinions, comments, owners or former owners?

thanks
bassem

 

Bothers me that you're not sure it's an E39 based on your question mark. The car is awesome, but the new E60 M5 is just on the horizon with it's 5.5L V10 making anywhere from 500-550hp.

That said, it doesn't make the E39 M5 any less of a car. It'll pound your E36 M3 in absolute handling, braking, and definitely acceleration. The car will 'feel' heavier, but it'll get out of it's own way quite nicely.

The redline on the motor is not 7500rpm, it's 7000rpm.

 

E39 M5 pounds the E36 M3 in handling and braking?

I really don't think so.

 

Okay, 'pound' was too strong of a word. It'll certainly make it interesting on a comparo between the two at an autocross, though the M5 is heavier. On a roadcourse, I'll put my money on the M5, especially considering it's extra power.

 

was not real sure if it was e38 or 39, that was why the question mark. i had never seriously considered the car before, so did not follow it religiously. sure you understand.

in any case it really is not a sports car, and will not deal as well at the track as the m3, the brakes will not put up as well for sure,but you do have a point about the power...despite the xtra 800lbs. although i have had no problems taking care of them at the track...

bassem

 

While "pound" was a bit excessive, an E39 M5 will beat an E36 M3 on even a somewhat tight road course. On a high-speed course or Nurburgring...forget about it.

 

well, it should be faster...but that's not the justification to buy it...i would not track that car anyway, that is what the honda is for. i guess input on day to day living, experiences etc is what i would like to ask about

thanks again
bassem

 

Guess that explains why it was dying to get to 7500

 

I believe the E38 is the pre-current generation 7er.

On the M5, it's got the ride of a 5 series, holds 5 people comfortably, and loads of power to haul them around. It'll be one hell of a grocery getter. If you liked the ride quality, and the interior styling and comfort, etc., then it's for you. Also know that those 400 horses will be at your command whenever you need them.

Image wise, it'll certainly be more appealing, and at the same time you'll get praises from the car nuts.

-John

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by QUIKAG
[B]

Okay, 'pound' was too strong of a word.