Have a 535i, considering an M3

[SilverRevlis]

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I currently have a 16' 535i xDrive M-Sport. We got this car a month after I got the wife a 16' 328i xDrive for kid duty. My car basically provides a drama free, relaxing drive to work... which is getting very boring. I know it would be a huge difference going from my car to a RWD 6MT M3, but I don't get out of my car with a smile because the drive isn't engaging whatsoever.

I almost made the mistake last week of moving on a 750i and getting out of my car, which I think would have made me even more bored, but with way more rear leg room. I don't know, but there is something theraputic about holding onto second until a gap opens up when you're on an on-ramp after work that just plasters a permanent smile on your face. Heck, I even miss that push you back in your seat from my tuned MK6 GLI.

Having never driven one (closest was an 8AT 340i xDrive) do you guys think I even need to do an extended test drive of the M3 or should I just look to find one and move forward? I will def be leasing and not purchasing unless the drive puts me head over heels.

[djMpower]

I would just rent one through Turo for a day. Even with an extended test drive you're not going to be able to thrash on it properly if it's still in break-in. Rent one and drive to your heart's content. If you're still unsure at the end of the day, chances are it's not for you. Though you'll likely love it.

[Thescout13]

Originally Posted by SilverRevlis

I currently have a 16' 535i xDrive M-Sport. We got this car a month after I got the wife a 16' 328i xDrive for kid duty. My car basically provides a drama free, relaxing drive to work......which is getting very boring. I know it would be a huge difference going from my car to a RWD 6MT M3, but I don't get out of my car with a smile because the drive isn't engaging what-so-ever. I almost made the mistake last week of moving on a 750i and getting out of my car, which I think I would have been even more bored, but with way more rear leg room. I don't know, but there is something theraputic about holding onto second until a gap opens up when your on an on-ramp after work that just plasters a permanent smile on your face. Heck, I even miss that push you back in your seat from my tuned MK6 GLI. As never having driven one (closest was an 8AT 340i xDrive) do you guys think I even need to do an extended test drive of the M3 or should I just look to find one and move forward? I will def be leasing and not purchasing unless the drive puts me head over heels.

I always recommend a test drive unless it will be a $100k plus garage queen. What I mean is, if you are getting GT3 or a McLaren you do not need to test drive, and no one will let you (usually). However, I would test drive it. It is going to be more violent, a bit tighter, and a bit of a rough ride compared to your current car. Also a RWD M car has fundamentally different dynamics than your 5 series. So do the test drive and make sure you like it. Get on the highway and do 70 for a few miles, take the car seats (if you still use them) and test fit them. Bring your wife along and see if she likes it. I always recommend going the extra mile in researching and testing out the car. But noticing that you have two X Drives, if you live somewhere where the it snows a lot, may want to pass unless you are okay with swapping out winter tires every year twice a year.

[Oreganoflow]

find one and move forward. there are driving modes for your moods that allow you to drive it light and fluffy or rowdy.

[RobC2]

Your 5 series sounds like my wife's A6. Nice car, but puts me to sleep. M3 all the way.

[Super Spartan]

Originally Posted by SilverRevlis

I currently have a 16' 535i xDrive M-Sport. We got this car a month after I got the wife a 16' 328i xDrive for kid duty. My car basically provides a drama free, relaxing drive to work... which is getting very boring. I know it would be a huge difference going from my car to a RWD 6MT M3, but I don't get out of my car with a smile because the drive isn't engaging whatsoever.

I almost made the mistake last week of moving on a 750i and getting out of my car, which I think would have made me even more bored, but with way more rear leg room. I don't know, but there is something theraputic about holding onto second until a gap opens up when you're on an on-ramp after work that just plasters a permanent smile on your face. Heck, I even miss that push you back in your seat from my tuned MK6 GLI.

Having never driven one (closest was an 8AT 340i xDrive) do you guys think I even need to do an extended test drive of the M3 or should I just look to find one and move forward? I will def be leasing and not purchasing unless the drive puts me head over heels.

There is no comparison man, the 535i is a nice cruiser/family car with no fun factor. The M3 is a different animal with way more agility, better handling, and off-course, the push you back in your seat power *every time*. Put in comfort mode and it feels like a regular 3 or 4 series but then change to sports or sports+ mode and it becomes a wild animal with lots of fun. It's a non brainer, go for it.

[RickFLM4]

I say go for the rental or longest test drive you can arrange. Clearly you will like the performance of the M and those you are asking here already made the choice. However, the seats, ride, noise and overall experience are far different than a 535 and even more different than a 7. In the last 10 years, I went from a Lexus to an A6 to an S4 to an M4. There were big differences along the way and I can understand why some prefer each one of those cars / classes. Only you can decide where you want to be in terms performance / price / comfort / space.

[Ghetto2315]

Originally Posted by Oreganoflow

find one and move forward. there are driving modes for your moods that allow you to drive it light and fluffy or rowdy.

Even with the damper control in Comfort, the suspension is still rough. Far from light and fluffy lol

[Bimmed Out]

In a nutshell, get the M3. It is now sufficiently roomy and comfy that you won't miss your 5-series. And performance-wise...well, let's just say you'll be pleased with the upgrade.

[frankiebones]

yes.

[BickUW89]

Originally Posted by SilverRevlis

I currently have a 16' 535i xDrive M-Sport. We got this car a month after I got the wife a 16' 328i xDrive for kid duty.

Your family needs are covered. Do it. Especially since you're planning on leasing, which means it's only a 3-year commitment.

I've had 3 previous 5ers, starting with a 2000 E39 540i (loved it!), then a 2008 E60 550i (OMG, my favorite car ever!), then got my wife a 2011 F10 535ix (snooze fest). I replaced my 2008 after 8 years of ownership with a 2016 M4 ZCP 6MT, because there was no f-ing way I was going to get another F10, and not f-ing way I was going to buy a pre-LCI G30, so the timing dictated getting a 3er/4er. Besides, I reasoned, the F3x/F8x platform is damn near the same dimensions and weight as my beloved E39.

Pulled the trigger last summer, and have now used the M4 as my DD for the last year. It's a really great DD, and driving the MT in Seattle-area traffic doesn't bother me one bit. It's a bit more rowdy even in the softest (comfort) settings, but so what? It's a BMW, and as others have said the power and acceleration are intoxicating.

Not sure I'm going to keep this beast when the 3-year lease is up, cuz I'm interested in test driving a G30 M550i, but we'll see.

Either way, I'll tell anyone who'll listen to get their arse out of an F10 and into an M3/M4, or even go backwards to a 2008-2010 E60, until the G30 LCI comes out.

$0.02

[gatorfast]

I feel you OP, I came from an F10 5 series as well. Performance-wise its no comparison. The M3 is much faster, lighter, more nimble - its a night and day difference. However, there is definitely something to be said for the roominess and comfort the 5er provides, especially for highway commuting.

But at the end of the day, based on your description of needs above, I think the M3 will put that smile on your face that you're looking for.

[SilverRevlis]

Awesome insight from an awesome group! I'm now deciding if I should head to the dealer tomorrow during lunch or wait till the weekend. The commute I have to work is mostly highway, but the road isn't in bad shape at all! I will keep you guys posted!

[mwh2009]

Originally Posted by SilverRevlis

Awesome insight from an awesome group! I'm now deciding if I should head to the dealer tomorrow during lunch or wait till the weekend. The commute I have to work is mostly highway, but the road isn't in bad shape at all! I will keep you guys posted!

Coming from a "normal" car in a Subaru Legacy GT and then a 2016 340i Xdrive, and finally now an F80 6MT, I think my key advice would be the following:

Really decide if all of the extra power is worth it over the 340i (as an example). The 340i was a fast car by any standard measure, and you could use a higher percentage of its performance on a daily drive. And it still had comfort, quiet, rear cupholders (why F80, why?) and more liveable features.

The M3 is stiffer even on its most comfortable settings, louder, and generally more violent to drive.

Which is great when you want it. I love it for that. But there is no doubt in my mind that a 340i is a better daily driver choice, especially if coming from a more practical car like I did - you'll notice the difference.

All that said, the F80 was a bucket list car for me. I'm going to give it a year or so at least to get it out of my system!

[skyline408]

Originally Posted by mwh2009

Coming from a "normal" car in a Subaru Legacy GT and then a 2016 340i Xdrive, and finally now an F80 6MT, I think my key advice would be the following:

Really decide if all of the extra power is worth it over the 340i (as an example). The 340i was a fast car by any standard measure, and you could use a higher percentage of its performance on a daily drive. And it still had comfort, quiet, rear cupholders (why F80, why?) and more liveable features.

The M3 is stiffer even on its most comfortable settings, louder, and generally more violent to drive.

Which is great when you want it. I love it for that. But there is no doubt in my mind that a 340i is a better daily driver choice, especially if coming from a more practical car like I did - you'll notice the difference.

All that said, the F80 was a bucket list car for me. I'm going to give it a year or so at least to get it out of my system!

the market for M drivers caters to emotions rather, than practicality.

IF one is looking to buy an M car--and as great as the 340 is now, it's not really an option on the table.

[MrBeard420]

435 with 48,000 miles in one year to a 535 7 months and now he M4. You can't and won't go wrong.

[JibSTir13]

The ride in an M3 is going to be noticeably stiffer/more intense/harsher than the 5, even if the M3 is in comfort mode - nature of the beast.

Sounds to me like the 5 is boring you and you should make the switch. Do note that you will lose interior space which, depending on your size and space needs, may or may not be a good thing.

[LukeM15]

M3 but definitely try to drive one before you make your final decision.

[E92 M Sport]

Go do the M track days or the M car control clinic. I did the clinic for $750. Got $1000 rebate off the car. You can drive them a lot harder than you ever can on a test drive, and you can begin to get a feel for them. The M cars are definitely stiffer, harsher and louder like everyone has said, but you should see for yourself.

[jrhav]

Recently went from a '14 550i to an '18 M4 MT, couldn't be happier. This car is an adventure every time I go for a ride. If you are looking for some more excitement after the F10, an F8x will fit the bill.

[Super Spartan]

Originally Posted by jrhav

Recently went from a '14 550i to an '18 M4 MT, couldn't be happier. This car is an adventure every time I go for a ride. If you are looking for some more excitement after the F10, an F8x will fit the bill.

And how would you describe your driving experience with the M550i? From the reviews I've seen it's no slouch.

[Fake News 2017]

Originally Posted by Thescout13

Bring your wife along and see if she likes it.

This has to be the WORST advise I have ever heard

NEVER bring the wife along when buying a sports car!

Tell her but don't bring her