Hello all,

I'm trying to make what seems to be a very difficult decision between purchasing a 2004 M3 or a 2004 530i. Seeing as how the M3 is obviously an extreme sports car yet offers comfort and luxury where as the 530i is the a solid choice when it comes to pure luxury with some sportiness, I'd like to ask all of you who might know, how does the M3 compare to the 530i in every day driving? Is the M3 so sporty that you start regretting it for everyday city driving?

It's important to note that I would get the M3 with the SMG option so I'm making this comparison based on both cars being automatic as opposed to using the clutch.

Lastly, I am concerned about repairs. Specifically, a car such as the M3 means extreme performance and as such, I question the reliability down the road of the engine, transmission, suspension as well as all the other parts of a car that at some point fail and need to be repaired/replaced. Comparing the M3's reliability to that of the the 530i, I'd like to get your opinions as to whether or not there's even cause to make this comparison. In other words, are both cars based upon your experience excellent when it comes to repairs? Money aside, it's obviously expensive for repairs when owning either of these 2 cars (after the warranty is up) but what do you all think?

Thanks very much!

first off, 530i's did not exist in 04, they changed them to the 535i with the new body style. and I would definately pick the 04 M3 with the SMG II tranny, both cars have luxury, but with the 535i you wont have the performance in it if you get it auto. but its your choice. the M3 would obviously cost more to maintain, but you dont have to worry about anything for quite a long time, because M3's do not tend to break down until 70-75k miles on them, and thats if its moderately maintained.

Uh... First off bigshot, you are wrong. Take a quick look at BMWUSA.com. Select 5 series, then select the 530i and here's the text from the site unaltered..

" The graceful beauty of the new 530i exterior is the first hint that you are in the presence of perfection. Powered by a 3-liter, 225-hp inline-six engine with Double VANOS valve timing, the 2004 530i sets a new benchmark for performance and agility. Industry-leading safety systems, enhanced performance features, and an expanded interior add up to unparalleled control, comfort, and peace of mind."

Next time when providing advice to someone, verify first that your facts are correct. Otherwise, you have zero credibility.

oh my bad, when i last checked the site, they only had the 525i, 535i, and 545i/6speed, i guess they changed it again. well its pretty much your choice, if you want better performance, go with the M3, if you dont care too much about hp, then go with the 530i.

Personally, I'd get a 2002 540. That way you let someone else take the depreciation on having bought a brand new car, and you still get it under warranty but for much cheaper. This is mainly because I don't particularly like the new 5 series body style, compared to the most recent before this, but that's obviously a personal preference. As for M3 vs 5 series (whether new or old), I have an M3 now, and sometimes really wished I'd gotten the 540 instead. I have an Audi A6 and much prefer driving that to the M3, except when feeling especially frisky or trying to impress girls under the age of 18. Otherwise I opt to drive to classier and much more comfortable A6. You're right that luxury and comfort level would be increased with the 5 series, and as far as performance goes the 540 (or new 530) is pretty damn quick too.
Just my 2 cents...