2013 335xdrive vs 2012 535xdrive

Hi all,

I am trying to find out what you guys think about this option:

Buy a 2012 535xdrive OR 2013 335xdrive.

I've found out that the price for both cars similarly equipped would be almost the same. Its just the matter of finding rightly optioned 535 VS ordering the 335 from scratch.

What would you do, considering the price difference is negligible.

Would you take comfort and luxury VS sportiness and agility with still great room in both options?

I am almost giving away a good deal on 535 in favor of 335. The reason being "BMW is known for 3 series". Also saw some funny reviews on new 5er.

Also 335 looks good with 18 inch wheels but 535 needs 19 inch to look good. You agree?

BTW I drive an MDX (2008) and an Audi S4 (2006) right now.

Mind (5 series) vs heart (3 series) game it is.......Any suggestions?

Lets speak it out....Cheers!

How do you like to drive? Are you more aggressive, or relaxed? Do you care if the 335 will be slightly worse value (as its new, no rebates/incentives)?

I had a 328 loaner about a month ago, and I was impressed at the agility, and how spritely it was. I'm warming to the exterior (the front fascia got me jarred at first). It was a really fun car to drive. I guess it depends on how you'll feel in a year, are you the type to re-analyze your car deal and value for money? The F10 will be a better deal, but not as quick, agile, and probably less fun to toss around. But cheaper, cushier, and perhaps more tech?

Good luck either way you win.

Sav13, just reading your post reveals that you really want a 3 series, go for what you want and forget the rational side of your thinking.

Personally, if I was getting AWD I'd seriously consider an Audi S4 or A6 instead of a BMW.

Choosing between a 335xi and 535xi though -- if you're looking for something more than just a nice luxury car with good power (that's how I would describe a 535xi), I'd go for the 335xi. It should be a lot more agile and fun to drive. Plus there's the benefit of not having to search for a 535xi with the options you want.

Also, if you do want the 335xi to have sportier handling, I'd make sure to get the dynamic handling package.

I did consider S4 or A6. I like S4 but then it looks too much like an A4.

I do believe A6 is better than 535 but I've been driving a S4 since 2007 and just needed some change. One thing I don't like about Audis is that they all look the same from front at least. BMWs look a little different if not a lot.

Also A6 is even longer than 535 which may not be desirable for parking etc. But I like what Audi is doing with their cars in performance.

I am leaning towards 335. It may even cost more than 535 but it will be something totally custom made to my liking, little lighter and hopefully more sporty.

So adding a M-sport package or dynamic handling package doesn't change the ride quality? I thought it would make it little harsher?

The only suspension available on the F30 that I think anyone could ever describe as harsh would be the normal sport suspension (not M adaptive) on the RWD sport/M sport lines. No xDrive model has that suspension. The M adaptive in comfort (default) mode is very comfortable. Sport mode increases the damping and tightens things up noticeably (great for the occasions when you want to do more spirited driving).

Originally Posted by ChrisF02

How do you like to drive? Are you more aggressive, or relaxed? Do you care if the 335 will be slightly worse value (as its new, no rebates/incentives)?

I had a 328 loaner about a month ago, and I was impressed at the agility, and how spritely it was. I'm warming to the exterior (the front fascia got me jarred at first). It was a really fun car to drive. I guess it depends on how you'll feel in a year, are you the type to re-analyze your car deal and value for money? The F10 will be a better deal, but not as quick, agile, and probably less fun to toss around. But cheaper, cushier, and perhaps more tech?

Good luck either way you win.

I like spirited driving but without harshness. I didn't find F10 more roomier than F30 but it could just be me.

Still sitting on the edge....

335 might be worse value but I can't find any 2012 335 and also not any good optioned older 335s (2010 or 2011). They go quick.

Also it makes me think that if a BMW model is heavily discounted (F10), there might be something wrong with the model itself.....I could be wrong though.

Test drove both cars back to back again today....twice.

I've decided to go for 535xi. It was overall more composed and comfortable car. It was sporty enough for daily driving and the interior was much better.

The 335xi was just too bumpy and the interior didn't feel as higher quality. The rear seat in 335 felt cramped and more importantly not inclined enough. Even my 2006 S4 has better rear seats I think....a personal opinion. BTW I drove 335 with the sport package.

Thanks for everybody's input.