As I see new car designs come out and their specifications. I have to admit, I am not as big of a fan of BMW products.
a) I do not feel you get your money's worth with BMW. Previously, you spent "X" dollars and you received a good return value. Dependable, handling, aesthetics, and performance. These days, I just do not see it.
Now, if you autocross or track the car (god forbid you drive in a safe environment) -- BMW tells you, the car was "not" made for that type of driving. Gee, I guess the moniker "M" holds no credibility anymore. I bought a nice $55K "M" paperweight. But, if I drive like an idiot on the street, BMW will cover parts that fail. Ironic.
Plus, the prices of BMW is increasing astronomically. People see the 2-series, X5, X3, 5 series, 7 series, M division, 3 series, Z-series, etc ... as being good. I see it as diluting quality. To many cars to maintain proper build quality. I mean, yes, the new M5 is awesome with "x" HP -- but, honestly, where can we use it? Not in this region unless you want to become friend's with bubba.
b) Cars are getting heavier. I would personally like to see 300 hp, 260 ft*lbs of torque in a car that weighs around 2900 lbs (fully optioned). That would be a great car to have. Have you ever picked up an E46 M3's seat? It is TWICE as heavy as the e36 M3's seat.
c) Build quality. This ties in with point a. Build quality is decreasing IMO. For vehicles that cost 36K+ ... you would expect less rattles, less electronic anomalies, etc -- and definitely no engine problems. I mean, when I start considering purchasing a car that is a RELIABLE and DEPENDABLE daily driver. First name that comes to mind is Lexus. I have a lexus '92 SC400 that I bought for my cousins. They LITERALLY did not change the oil for 60K miles -- did absolutely ZERO maintenance on it. I finally paid for a tuneup this year -- ONLY service done in the past 75K miles. No problems -- zip, zilch, zero.
I was seriously contemplating a daily driver 5-series -- but, I know Lexus will outlast it. A 540i around 1997-1998 costs about $18K -- same price as a Lexus. But, Lexus, hands down -- better value. Better interior, more luxury (we are talking daily driver here), far superior electronics, and better gas mileage.
Sorry for the long post; but, I am curious to see what keeps you guys loyal to BMW. IF I buy another BMW, it will be probably be an E36 M3. Even the E39 M5, I think I will forego. The new ones, I can't see spending that much money. I look at Acura's TL, Honda Accord EX-V6, and Lexus -- and see you get far more for your dollar.
It seems BMW is analogous to MB now -- you are paying for the circle. At least with Lexus, IMO, you are getting what you pay for -- a car you know will last pretty much forever.
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