I have almost always driven lexus. Nice and dependable. But since the sc400, nothing really wows me. I am considering the new 2006 Lexus GS but do not like the exterior styling but the interior is fabulous. I am also drooling over the bmw 530i but think the interior is old and staid. Can you nice people give me some objective advice...about which to buy. I must say I don;t care much about taking mountain roads and road testing cars...I just drive to and from work and to the beach and around town. Thanks so much!
2006 lexus gs vs. 2005 bmw 530-which?
- Thread starter ronaldo
- Start date
ronaldo, first welcome aboard ![[thumb]](/images/smilies/icon_smile_thumb.gif "Thumbs Up [thumb]")
that is one tough question, especially on a bmw board. well, objectivly i would go with the 5er. I am known for not being a fan of the 5er styling, but the lexus even worse in my eyes. the back looks really bad, somehow like a mishappened mixture between station wagon and sedan. definetly not my kind.
As for the interiour the 5er is fabulous in my eyes. i like that part of the car very much. drove one for some hours only, but it was fine from the first minute.
in your case, as design and handling are not the key facts, i would compare the numbers. price, insurance, maintenance, tax, resell...you know what i mean. those seem to be the keys to open the door to one or the other of both.
all in all i think that both are pretty fine cars and match your purpose. with the bimmer however, you might discover the fun in driving and turn to a mountain road lover![[hihi]](/images/smilies/icon_smile_hihi.gif "Hi Hi [hihi]")
give it a try
that is one tough question, especially on a bmw board. well, objectivly i would go with the 5er. I am known for not being a fan of the 5er styling, but the lexus even worse in my eyes. the back looks really bad, somehow like a mishappened mixture between station wagon and sedan. definetly not my kind.
As for the interiour the 5er is fabulous in my eyes. i like that part of the car very much. drove one for some hours only, but it was fine from the first minute.
in your case, as design and handling are not the key facts, i would compare the numbers. price, insurance, maintenance, tax, resell...you know what i mean. those seem to be the keys to open the door to one or the other of both.
all in all i think that both are pretty fine cars and match your purpose. with the bimmer however, you might discover the fun in driving and turn to a mountain road lover
give it a try 
I'm going to have to respectively disagree with the Wadula's recommendation. But I absolutely agree with his comment about asking this GS v. 5er question on a BMW forum, this may not be the best place to get an objective opinion. Take these write-ups with a grain of salt, go post on clublexus.com and do the same. Better yet: go test drive both cars! See what you can decifer.
However, there are members here who can be objective, which means recognizing the pros/cons of other makes, in this case Lexus. My review follows, but in all truth, I have not driven either the 5er or the GS. Though I have seen both in person (recently spent some time in the GS at the Chicago Auto show--see my thread) and plan on driving the GS430 as soon as it shows up at a dealer in my area (so far, I've only seen GS300s).
In my opinion, the pluses for the BMW are:
+Better handling and overall driving dynamics
+Bigger "wow" factor/prestige (subjective)
+Relatively spacious rear seat
+"Fresh" styling inside and out (some like it; some don't; you be the judge)
Cons for the 5er:
-Constroversial styling inside and out for some
-Poor interior quality overall and fit and finish (cheap plastics; gaps)
-I-drive realibility and electro-mechanical reliability overall is not as good as Lexus'
-Low on power in 2005 530; but the 2006 530i should have a more powerful engine (268hp, I believe)
-Expensive; BMW "premium not worth it
-Pricey options
Here are my comments for the GS:
Pro's:
+Impeccable fit and finish in interior (leather stitched floor console, no gaps, high-quality plastics, beautiful seats)
+"Fresh" styling inside and out (again, some like it, some don't)
+Great reliability; great electro-mechanical dependability
+Solid build quality (no shakes or rattles)
+Great value
+Intuitive navigation/HVAC system
+Superb Mark Levinson sound system (maybe the industry's best)
+Option bundles not as expensive as BMW--more equipment for less money
Con's:
-Controversial styling for some
-Low headroom in rear (though legroom is good)
-No heated rear seats yet (probably not a concern for you, but for those who live in cold-weather areas like myself)
Summary:
The styling thing is perhaps the most subjective aspect to address. Only you can determine which car you like and which you don't. I can testify that the GS looks WAY better in person than in pics, and the rear "hump" isn't as in-your-face and awkward as it may appear. Have you seen it yet in person? Having said that, I think I can be fairly objective about other matters, though some will say that even those are subjective--but such is the nature of choosing/describing cars anyway.
The BMW's greatest merits, I feel, are when it comes to sporty handling/driving. You and I are in the same boat, Ronaldo, in that we are not overly concerned with this type of driving. Not that the GS is a slouch, though (it's got a 6spd, rapid-shifting sequential automatic and a 300hp V8--in GS430 form--good enough for a sub 6 second 0-60 time). But the BMW loses points in my book for the crappy interior and I-drive.
The GS's interior is much more luxurious. It's less expensive and in my opinion, looks awesome! Given it's (likely) greater reliability and dependability, in addition to the fact that it seems like you're looking for more of a luxo-cruiser and commuter than all-out sport-sedan(BMW), I would recommend the GS. I am going to test drive the 430 soon and may very well purchase it within the next 3-4 months.
Like Wadula said, you should look into insurance costs, maintenance, gas mileage, resale, etc. if those are important considerations for you.
Good luck.
However, there are members here who can be objective, which means recognizing the pros/cons of other makes, in this case Lexus. My review follows, but in all truth, I have not driven either the 5er or the GS. Though I have seen both in person (recently spent some time in the GS at the Chicago Auto show--see my thread) and plan on driving the GS430 as soon as it shows up at a dealer in my area (so far, I've only seen GS300s).
In my opinion, the pluses for the BMW are:
+Better handling and overall driving dynamics
+Bigger "wow" factor/prestige (subjective)
+Relatively spacious rear seat
+"Fresh" styling inside and out (some like it; some don't; you be the judge)
Cons for the 5er:
-Constroversial styling inside and out for some
-Poor interior quality overall and fit and finish (cheap plastics; gaps)
-I-drive realibility and electro-mechanical reliability overall is not as good as Lexus'
-Low on power in 2005 530; but the 2006 530i should have a more powerful engine (268hp, I believe)
-Expensive; BMW "premium not worth it
-Pricey options
Here are my comments for the GS:
Pro's:
+Impeccable fit and finish in interior (leather stitched floor console, no gaps, high-quality plastics, beautiful seats)
+"Fresh" styling inside and out (again, some like it, some don't)
+Great reliability; great electro-mechanical dependability
+Solid build quality (no shakes or rattles)
+Great value
+Intuitive navigation/HVAC system
+Superb Mark Levinson sound system (maybe the industry's best)
+Option bundles not as expensive as BMW--more equipment for less money
Con's:
-Controversial styling for some
-Low headroom in rear (though legroom is good)
-No heated rear seats yet (probably not a concern for you, but for those who live in cold-weather areas like myself)
Summary:
The styling thing is perhaps the most subjective aspect to address. Only you can determine which car you like and which you don't. I can testify that the GS looks WAY better in person than in pics, and the rear "hump" isn't as in-your-face and awkward as it may appear. Have you seen it yet in person? Having said that, I think I can be fairly objective about other matters, though some will say that even those are subjective--but such is the nature of choosing/describing cars anyway.
The BMW's greatest merits, I feel, are when it comes to sporty handling/driving. You and I are in the same boat, Ronaldo, in that we are not overly concerned with this type of driving. Not that the GS is a slouch, though (it's got a 6spd, rapid-shifting sequential automatic and a 300hp V8--in GS430 form--good enough for a sub 6 second 0-60 time). But the BMW loses points in my book for the crappy interior and I-drive.
The GS's interior is much more luxurious. It's less expensive and in my opinion, looks awesome! Given it's (likely) greater reliability and dependability, in addition to the fact that it seems like you're looking for more of a luxo-cruiser and commuter than all-out sport-sedan(BMW), I would recommend the GS. I am going to test drive the 430 soon and may very well purchase it within the next 3-4 months.
Like Wadula said, you should look into insurance costs, maintenance, gas mileage, resale, etc. if those are important considerations for you.
Good luck.
I like Wallie's summation. How much does the styling affect you? For me, it matters a lot cuz I don't want to drive what I consider an ugly car. You're always gonna find someone who loves and who hates a particular car. So, you can't go by other peoples' tastes. It's gotta be your own.
For you, BMW's main assets don't seem to be used much. However, I know plenty of people BMW has won over b/c even daily commuting is so much more fun in their BMW than it was before. Unfortunately, you're gonna have to test drive these things b/c you can't compare the two on paper. People always say that, but you really must for a BMW. If it were a Lexus vs. Mercedes comparo, then you could get by just looking at them on paper, but not with a BMW.
If I can land that new job in the next few months like I plan, I'll be in the exact same boat as you. No offense to the 5 series guys, but I'm getting the GS. It's mainly cuz of looks. I still think the new 5 looks ugly as sin. Inside and out. And I hate the I-drive (I like my buttons). And I'm a stickler for interiors and the new 5 not only is boring (I can live with that), but the quality bothers me (like it does on our E-class, but that car wasn't my choice). Plus, the service gets kinda annoying, particularly how no one around here will give me a loaner.
For you, BMW's main assets don't seem to be used much. However, I know plenty of people BMW has won over b/c even daily commuting is so much more fun in their BMW than it was before. Unfortunately, you're gonna have to test drive these things b/c you can't compare the two on paper. People always say that, but you really must for a BMW. If it were a Lexus vs. Mercedes comparo, then you could get by just looking at them on paper, but not with a BMW.
If I can land that new job in the next few months like I plan, I'll be in the exact same boat as you. No offense to the 5 series guys, but I'm getting the GS. It's mainly cuz of looks. I still think the new 5 looks ugly as sin. Inside and out. And I hate the I-drive (I like my buttons). And I'm a stickler for interiors and the new 5 not only is boring (I can live with that), but the quality bothers me (like it does on our E-class, but that car wasn't my choice). Plus, the service gets kinda annoying, particularly how no one around here will give me a loaner.
I agree with Wadula on this one. I am not a big fan of the exterior styling of the GS. I agree the rear of that car looks like crap to me. The interior of the GS is very very nice, but I like the 5 Series as well. It would be a close call, but I just can't stand the exterior styling of the GS. When I add it all up I like the 5 Series more.
5 series for sure but consider the 545i if it fits in your price range, its a killing machine. Driven the 5 series often different engine sizes from 530D upto 545i they are amazing. First i didnt like the car because of the design but than i got used to it and now i love it.
Also one of my personal believes is that lexus is more behind they dont risk to try out new things as they think it would cost them buyers but hey BMW has tried out some complete new designs you like or you don't. And BMW makes the best engines in the world thats a fact. But best advise is still do a test ride in both and take the one you prefer
Also one of my personal believes is that lexus is more behind they dont risk to try out new things as they think it would cost them buyers but hey BMW has tried out some complete new designs you like or you don't. And BMW makes the best engines in the world thats a fact. But best advise is still do a test ride in both and take the one you prefer
Do what Wallie said, post this on a lexus board as well, pile up the results from both sites.. Then in my opinion read em, then burn them all and go drive both. As a few folks have said you may not appreciate all the aspects of a BMW in the manner that you plan to use the car. That in itself and the price may remove it from your choices alltogether. Then again, driving a BMW is what got me (and many others) hooked in the first place.
Just go drive comparable cars (IE: don't take a poor 525 out and then a GS400 or whatnot). Try to match up the 'packages' such as sports, and premium, etc. Don't compare apples and oranges, try to at least compare a green and a red apple..![[:)]](/images/smilies/smile.png "Smile [:)]")
Just go drive comparable cars (IE: don't take a poor 525 out and then a GS400 or whatnot). Try to match up the 'packages' such as sports, and premium, etc. Don't compare apples and oranges, try to at least compare a green and a red apple..
dude, that is one big pic. the whole thread doesn't even fit on my widescreen monitor..
section 8, or Jason's right, do the test drive, and take what you like.
other's opinions are just that, you are the one dropping the hard earned bucks.
i spoke w/ my wallet when i chose my car, you and many others should do the same.
and of course take advice from a person that drove both cars,
in configuration that you are thinking of getting.
edit: (i couldn't really edit it, so i just cut it out ^^;
good luck, and the look of the 5er is finally grown on me.
lex on the other hand, doesn't look as upscale after the face lift.
more of an upgrade on the late ford escort.
section 8, or Jason's right, do the test drive, and take what you like.
other's opinions are just that, you are the one dropping the hard earned bucks.
i spoke w/ my wallet when i chose my car, you and many others should do the same.
and of course take advice from a person that drove both cars,
in configuration that you are thinking of getting.
edit: (i couldn't really edit it, so i just cut it out ^^;
good luck, and the look of the 5er is finally grown on me.
lex on the other hand, doesn't look as upscale after the face lift.
more of an upgrade on the late ford escort.
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I like the new Lexus GS and the styling is nice but the overall profile is a bit too "bubbly" for me. It's like the GS is ALMOST there....I want a more streamlined profile, something closer to the new Mercedes CLS.
Wallie, I see you've mentioned the 5er's interior is of poor/cheap quality. Do you really feel that strongly about it? I sat in one a couple of weeks ago and I did not get a "cheap interior" impression....more along the lines of, they cut costs where it doesn't count as much, very similar approach to what the Japanese do. Overall, I do not get the feeling that BMW skimmed on the 5-series' interior, it seems very nice and organized, and something to appreciate. Your thoughts?
Wallie, I see you've mentioned the 5er's interior is of poor/cheap quality. Do you really feel that strongly about it? I sat in one a couple of weeks ago and I did not get a "cheap interior" impression....more along the lines of, they cut costs where it doesn't count as much, very similar approach to what the Japanese do. Overall, I do not get the feeling that BMW skimmed on the 5-series' interior, it seems very nice and organized, and something to appreciate. Your thoughts?
Yeah, MrE., I agree that the GS's styling is a bit "bubbly", but I think it works and I find the look attractive. Different strokes for different folks, etc., etc.,....
As far as the 5er is concenred, I stand by what I said. I've pored over the interior several times, but the most time I spent in it was the times I've had my car at the dealer (oil change; broken sunroof) and when my dad bought his Z4.
A few things bug me:
1) Plastic armrest. Even my 3er has a leather-stitched armrest.
2) Ergonomics/Plastic layout. I hate the gap in the lower console (I think a lot of people complained, as some of the later models have a whole sheet of plastic, but even that looks shitty). As well as the "two-fold" upper-dash and the ensuing gap crease, as well as the texture of some of the plastics--its too smooth in the middle/lower console. Also, I hate the the gaps/cut-outs on the passenger side for the glove-box and cup-holder are too big.
3) I don't like how BMW has that button strip on its cars--if you order some options, you get buttons, but if you don't, you get that unsightly plastic strip. Same goes for the rear heating/cooling console. If you don't have the heated seats, the plastic box there looks horrible.
But I must admit that the BMW seats (especially the comfort seats shown above) are top-notch and really comfortable. Also, rear-seat space is plentiful. I don't know what else to tell ya other than I wasn't feeling the same quality vibe as in the last 5er and especially compared to Lexus and Audi. But I will say I was disappointed in both BMW and Lexus for not putting more wood on the doors--BMW just has the handle and Lexus has a small part of the door console. I think they can both improve there.
Lexus' GS has a tight, smooth console on the other hand. The lower console is leather-stitched and slides right underneath the dash--no gap at all. The armrest is leathe-stitched as well, and many of the optional accesory buttons are hidden underneath it.
In the end, I guess each person will have their own opinions about the quality and style of a car's interior just like they do with the exterior styling. But there have been a lot of other people on this board who've remarked about the quality/style of the interior of the E60 as well....
As far as the 5er is concenred, I stand by what I said. I've pored over the interior several times, but the most time I spent in it was the times I've had my car at the dealer (oil change; broken sunroof) and when my dad bought his Z4.
A few things bug me:
1) Plastic armrest. Even my 3er has a leather-stitched armrest.
2) Ergonomics/Plastic layout. I hate the gap in the lower console (I think a lot of people complained, as some of the later models have a whole sheet of plastic, but even that looks shitty). As well as the "two-fold" upper-dash and the ensuing gap crease, as well as the texture of some of the plastics--its too smooth in the middle/lower console. Also, I hate the the gaps/cut-outs on the passenger side for the glove-box and cup-holder are too big.
3) I don't like how BMW has that button strip on its cars--if you order some options, you get buttons, but if you don't, you get that unsightly plastic strip. Same goes for the rear heating/cooling console. If you don't have the heated seats, the plastic box there looks horrible.
But I must admit that the BMW seats (especially the comfort seats shown above) are top-notch and really comfortable. Also, rear-seat space is plentiful. I don't know what else to tell ya other than I wasn't feeling the same quality vibe as in the last 5er and especially compared to Lexus and Audi. But I will say I was disappointed in both BMW and Lexus for not putting more wood on the doors--BMW just has the handle and Lexus has a small part of the door console. I think they can both improve there.
Lexus' GS has a tight, smooth console on the other hand. The lower console is leather-stitched and slides right underneath the dash--no gap at all. The armrest is leathe-stitched as well, and many of the optional accesory buttons are hidden underneath it.
In the end, I guess each person will have their own opinions about the quality and style of a car's interior just like they do with the exterior styling. But there have been a lot of other people on this board who've remarked about the quality/style of the interior of the E60 as well....
No one here is making noise and shouting anything. You are correct people here are expressing their opinions just like your statement is your opinion however, he asked for opinions from everyone.
P.S. You guys are right to each his own. IMO, I think the exterior looks like crap and that is my opinion. The interior is very nice, but IMO so is the 5 series. To each his own. He will have to test drive, evaluate, and make his own opinion.
P.S. You guys are right to each his own. IMO, I think the exterior looks like crap and that is my opinion. The interior is very nice, but IMO so is the 5 series. To each his own. He will have to test drive, evaluate, and make his own opinion.
This has to be the simplest answer...BMW!!!! Once I drove my first bmw for a week, i was not able to drive any other, just doesnt feel right. I mean the steering is tight and the way it handles on the road with out any mods, no way a lexus can do it. Not to be mean and say Japanese car are not good, cause i own a G35 as well, but there is something special about the BMW!!!