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, Mon, 24 Mar 2003 10:57:49
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Having one of each marque, a 1990 325i and a 1988 Saab 9k Turbo, I can probably offer less biased of an opinion.
An e32 BMW is large. The m30 3.5 engine is capable and butter smooth. You will probably get a more luxurious ride from the 7-er and a more sporty from the 9000.
Having said that, I completely disagree with SaabKen's opinion that BMW falls in the same category as MB. BMW has a strong emphasis (at least they obviously did in the late 80's early 90's) on performance and sporting behaviour. I mean, the e39 M5 is offered with a 6spd manual box *only* as opposed to AMG cars being offered with autos *only*.
A more fair comparison to a 9000 would be a e34 525/535i (1989-1995). Its about the same size, inside and out, and is more sporting and RWD! Whichever way you look at it, RWD does offer far better handling refinement and control, so the e34 would be my choice. Build qualities of both are good inside, with the BMW winning on exterior build quality.
With the e34 you've got a near 50-50 weight distribution, no torque-steer, great interior, the fabled straight-six (I can attest to it), tonnes of aftermarket parts for their engines, great gearbox (something the 9000 doesnt have) and excellent build quality. Similar reliability wrt engine stuff. 1989-1992 were SOHC sixes. DOHC came in 1992 with more complexity, power, tuneability and weight.
With the Saab you've got turbo fun, a versaile interior and FWD (advantage if you have reflexes that suit FWD and if you are in snowy climates). The interior on the 9000 is better quality than on my e30 325i, but not better than my friend's e34 525i.
For about $10000, you can get a 1992 BMW e34 M5. 3.6L making about 315hp. Individual throttle-bodies, incredible revvability and all other M-Power goodness. M5's are the best line of cars ever IMHO.
Thats it then. The e34 535i and M5 are rare and the 525i is readily available.
Karthik
posted by 66.7.19...
, Mon, 24 Mar 2003 10:57:49
, Mon, 24 Mar 2003 23:07:37
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