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Used 2004 BMW 5 Series Sedan Consumer Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
348 reviews

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4.63 out of 5 stars

great car

apexeu, 05/01/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

rides well quiet great fuel economy for it's size and performance ie 35MPG on the highway great for young professionals with family

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5 out of 5 stars

GREAT CAR

HUGH SCOTT, 04/11/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

THE NEW 5 SERIES IS FUN TO DRIVE, QUIET RIDE, AND GREAT FIT AND FINISHED.

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5 out of 5 stars

NICE CAR

MISIO, 02/28/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I LIKE IT,IT IS FAST AND VERY COMFORTABLE.HAS GREAT ACCELERATION.. IN POLISH WE CAN SAY.."PALI GUME"

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4.88 out of 5 stars

First BMW, very impressed so far...

Kramer, 12/10/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This truly is the sport sedans others are measured by. Altough not perfect, it it definitely the closest thing to it within that price range I test drove. A few more ponies for the 525 would be nice, but it performs at such an efficient level with regards to high revving tranny it is hardly noticed. Man, these guys can build a transmission.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Great drive and ride

Micahel, 12/09/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Car is greatly improved from my previous 2000 528i. Handles and ride is one of the best I’ve driven, the design is nice but there are too many controls around the steering column

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4.88 out of 5 stars

First SMG delivered

jbone68, 04/12/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I picked up the first US Spec SMG from Munich(military guy) WOW the SMG was outstanding. It works best in sport mode but perfect as reviewed. I drove on the Autobahn what an expeience!! To be able to cruise at 145MPH this car was a dream. It kicked ass in the twisties of the Alps. IDrive is simple and a fun to use

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4.5 out of 5 stars

1st time "Beamer" owner

Colleen Weber, 04/12/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Really fun to drive....kinda like falling in love in highschool! REALLY wish they had front wheel drive though. I'm from S.D. and we get plenty of snow and ice in the winter. Since this is my first "Beamer", I am concerned about how I will make it through the elements with this car.

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5 out of 5 stars

MY 2004 BMW

TOM K, 02/28/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

THE CAR IS EXPENSIVE, BUT WORTH IT. THE RIDE AND HANDLING ARE FANTASTIC, THE CAR IS FLAWLESS REGARDING ASSEMBLY AND FIT. THE CAR IS WORTH THE MONEY. I RECEIVED WITH EUROPEAN DELIVERY, SIMPLE AND STRAIGHT FORWARD, NO SURPRISES.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Car

JoeJack97, 12/09/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I had a 2003 Mercedes Benz E320, but no contest, this is a far superior car in every sense. Looks, performance and how it drives.

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5 out of 5 stars

Improved E39

Dantheman, 03/06/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Just changed my E39 528 for E60 E60...completely happy with design. I loved my E39 but was outdated...the E60 is getting more and more attention from people. I love the new style...it will be another classic. Same fun driving this car...I passed on the the adaptative driving...can t improve something that s perfect. looking rward to ne next 3 years of fun driving

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5 out of 5 stars

2004 530i

zig, 12/18/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The total redesign of the car is killer. Get the sport package. The car handles great go around a corner like on rails. Just the right size for a mid sized car. I have had no mechanical problems with this car at all. Plus the warrenty four years covers everything except tires. Best deal going.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Great Car!

Ella, 04/16/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love my car, although I would prefer a more user-friendly electronic/audio system. The car is extremely comfortable to drive and ride in.

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5 out of 5 stars

Transcendent Teutonic machine!!

Mike Lucarelli, 03/10/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Spectacular world class ride and handling, you look forward to driving and relishing it's splendor. My third BMW in 20 years and by far the finest. Considered a MB E Class first but my kids talked me out of an "old persons car" (MB) and I am happy I stuck with the Bavarian brand.

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5 out of 5 stars

Best car at all !!!

bertotricci, 11/08/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

After driving the E39 530 I have to say that is now a great step forward. Real fun to drive this car

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Still a Winner

Bob L, 03/15/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My 2003 525 was totaled when a pickup broadsided my family at 55 mph. They came out without a scratch! It was'nt love at first sight with the 2004, but I trusted no other car for my familys safety. I got it with the actice steering and suspension and it is truly outstanding. It out performs my 2003 and the new technology is a nice touch. The adaptive xenon headlights turn the corner before you do, adding a little extra safty. I like the i- drive, its simple and helpful. The car looks like its moving even sitting in my driveway. A little costly, but how do you put a price on your family. Dont have one... get one! I love this car.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

NEW 5 bliss

NYbmwGUY, 12/15/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is beautiful. It's my first rear-drive and there's just no comparison to front-wheel drive cars. I had no problem with traction in 2 recent NY snow storms, either. Inside is sporty but somewhat austere. That's what a sport sedan is supposed to be! I hate auto magazine editor reviews!!! BTW, If you're computer literate enough to read this, you can manipulate the iDrive.

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5 out of 5 stars

The Greatest 5 Series

BMW Lover, 10/04/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The newest 5 Series is the best ever the ride, quietness and new features such as hud Diplay.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Awesome 530i

Jeff2003, 12/10/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This 530i has great looks inside and out, drives like a dream, and has great features.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

IF ITS A SPORT CAR YOU WANT, GET IT!

wireless1, 04/20/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is an ultimate driving machine. 6- sp manual transmission is a must for driving enthusiasts. Not many manufacturers offer this. Car is extremely fast and handling is superb. New sport package hugs the road you always feel in control, at any speed. I invested in a new radar detector immediately. Inside comfort is great and new I-drive is easy to use, especially compared to original version. If you are a driving enthusiast, you will love this car. If you want a luxury sports car this is it, if you want a luxury boat go for the Mercedes.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

BMW vs Audi

kent green, 03/20/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

After having a Audi6 and loving it i didnt think i would find a car that was better then my Audi.I was about to lease a new Audi when i saw the new 2004 530I I drove it and the rest is history.I think its such a safe feeling to drive the 5301 i love how it handles, the stering is precise and so much fun to drive.I love my new BMW.My son loves the stereo as well.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Nice Ride!

mjgion, 12/10/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Nice ride! No compliants about performance and sheer joy of driving this vehicle. Did have some minor problems with computer system(resolved by dealer)Interior could have made better use of space with regard to cell phone space more center console space....Otherwise a great treat to drive

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5 out of 5 stars

Ultimate Driving

Seabum, 04/20/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have a 525i/w sport package and I love it. It's a sports car with class and room for the whole family at the same time. From the outside it looks like you typical luxury sedan, on the inside, well move over granny, its all sport.

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5 out of 5 stars

ANOTHER STEP UP

CASEY4777, 03/18/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I BOUGHT A NEW BMW 325 THREE YEARS AGO AND WAS BLOWN AWAY BY ITS PERFORMANCE AND THE SERVICE OF ITS DEALERS. BASED ON THIS I DECIDED TO GO ONE STEP FURTHER AND BUY A NEW 2004 525. IT IS HARD TO BELIEVE BUT IT IS EVEN BETTER THAN THE THREE. I LIKE EVERYTHING ABOUT IT.

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5 out of 5 stars

Just got 2004 525i

Mikehell, 11/27/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Just got a 2004 525i automatic with cold weather package, xenon lights (which are way nice!), leather and premium package...very nice car!! I had been researching extensively new BMW's, Mercedes, and the like for the last 5 months. BMW is a very solid car. You feel very much in control. Even though I have only had it a week, it so far has proven excellent to my high standards (I plan on updating this entry in 6-8 months to see if all is still well). I was also torn between the 530 and 525, there really is not much difference in the engine perfomance considering an extra $5,000 for 39 more horsepower.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Still...the Ultimate Driving Machine

roant71, 12/10/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Hard to explain..but the best handling in a car that you will ever find.

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5 out of 5 stars

Just got it.

hyeonlyfe, 10/06/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My wife fell in love with the car when we walked into the showroom. Handles great as expected from a BMW. Lots of new bells and whistles. FUN !!!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Laurie's New Car

UTRXMR, 11/25/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My wife totalled my SLK. We needed a four-seater this time around. We chose the 2004 525 over a 2003 530 and a 2004 E-320. My ex-wife had totalled two E-320's in the last few years, so we decided a change was necessary!! I had read the car magazines about the 5-series,and was concerned about its styling and controller controversies. But, we loved the styling. The BMW looks great in black. The electronics are challenging but interesting. I wish it had more power, but the cost of the engine upgrade wasn't worth the extra money.

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5 out of 5 stars

peaceful dream come true

peace, 12/11/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

An anniversary from my husband! Special ordered with platinum exterior and tan leather interior. Drives like a dream and reminds me of my first car... 73 bavaria bmw, white with blue leather and sunroof.

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5 out of 5 stars

Early Impressions

deleng, 03/27/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

No disappiontments. Great driving experience. iDrive has been criticized by many reviewers, but I find it much like a computer, once mastered, it is very logical.

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5 out of 5 stars

Pretty close to perfect

panderse, 12/23/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is just an awesome vehicle. I drove other japanese cars claiming to be in the same class, and while they had impressive specs, none could come close to the driving experience of the 5. Plenty of power, flawless transmission with sport and manual modes, and impecible handling. I found immediately that i need to work on my driving skills because this car does exactly what you tell it to. I know people are complaining about iDrive, but I find it pretty easy to use. Althought i work with computers all day.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

#1 again

ezzie, 12/27/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

bmw again is the ultimate car...must get sport pkg. to get proper performance..the road handling is approaching my porsche and the variable steering is greatttt..even the i drive is easy and im not the gadget type....

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4.88 out of 5 stars

2004 530i

gonzo40, 12/26/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

have logged about 350 miles on it already, fun to drive, quick and agile, had a 02 330i before, opted for the new 5 for more room. styling is great, the lines, raptor's eyes, etc., i never get tired looking at it. I- drive is easy to configure - no problems there! handling is superb! got the Premium, Cold Weather and Sport Packages, Xenon and Steptronic - wondering if other options are worth it, PDC, Premium Sound, Rear Seat Heating, etc.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

The BMW 545i has the power at all speeds

whittier peirce, 04/05/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

As a former 2001 BMW 525i sport owner, my new 2004 545i sport package has tons of power at any speed. The 8 cyl. engine sucks up the gas if you like to feel the power often, but it's well worth it. The night time driving headlights turn with the steering wheel so the front view is always well lit. As usual, the German engineering is first class in the new 2004 BMW 545. The power is unreal and kicks you back in your seat whenever you feel the need. Just keep an eye out for the State Troopers, as you can do 90mph before you even realize it. - Happy cruzin. WP

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5 out of 5 stars

New 5 series - a great step ahead

jmit, 12/10/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

HAve had a 740il - this is everything I expected. Great handling - larger interior. Better looking than the old version. Easy to drive. Fun to drive.

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5 out of 5 stars

my new 530I

jblum361, 04/11/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

BMW is a pleasure to drive. Traction control on ice and snow is a good as you can expect. Heated steering wheel and seats work quickly which is a welcome relief on a chilly morning. Fuel economy is better than my previous 5 series averaging well over 30 miles per gallon on a road trip.

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5 out of 5 stars

The Ultimate Driving Machine

Sunny Tom, 12/11/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The slogan says it all: The legendary suspension system has no equal off the racetrack; Acceleratiion and braking beyond compare; An interior made by the only people qualified to make them; and style that leads the industry. This is the most fun car to drive in the world... Why else would you see so many of them in front of Monte Carlo?

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Extreme Satisfaction

Casmir22, 11/15/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Each time you enter this car and get on the road you are amazed at its amazing handling and comfort. I feel as if I am sitting in an easy chair. The ride is smooth and quiet, unlike avearage european made autombiles and better than both the Mercedes 2 & 3 series. I also prefer it over the Lexus counterpart. What continues to amaze me that even after all this time, the car still makes me smile and shake my head in surprise, each ride. It's a never ending joyride that I feel completely safe in because it's response is unquestionable in all situations the car stays with you. I planning for the new 530i as we speak.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

New 5 Series is all they say it is!!

jim 5109, 12/01/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great handling and a LOT more room than the 0202 5 Series. Much more stylish as well. I am completely satisfied

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5 out of 5 stars

best luxury /sport sedan built.

puge0406, 04/17/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

i have owned caddilac & lexus. bmw is by far the best handling,best riding & best looking of all. all the time i needed with the idrive was 20minutes. whats all the fuss about?

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4.75 out of 5 stars

The best investment ever!

JoeSmithJR, 12/10/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have had this car for about 4 months and I have had such a great time with this automobile. I would rather have it than anyother car on earth.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Maybe in 2005, needs some changes

Amgolfin, 04/19/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I am the market of trading in my Lexus, undecided weather to purchase the 530i or the E300 Mercedes. My first impression of the 530i - a beautiful designed car, having several noticeable flaws that many consumers have identified. I possibly will wait until 2005 giving BMW an opportunity to provide the awesome car they intended.

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4 out of 5 stars

If it worked it would be great.

bwertma., 01/28/2005
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This could be a great car, but repeated problems with the computer system make it unacceptable. Episodes of the headlights not coming on but instead all exterior lights start flashing rapidly on and off; warnings that the passenger airbag is off when an adult passenger is in the seat; warnings of brake and steering problems; etc. We have had many computer modules replaced and software upgrades to no avail. Because of these types of recurring, potentially dangerous problems; we don't even feel comfortable enough to drive our 530i out of town. It is really fun to drive. If I had gotten one that worked reliably, I would love it.

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5 out of 5 stars

My 2004 530i

Johnny Garcia, 08/15/2005
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had car for one year now and no surprises with any break downs. Car is absolutely fab to drive. Get the Premium audio, sports package and maintenance coverage for all tuneups and oil changes, etc since its definitely worth it.

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5 out of 5 stars

Performs as promised

Stevewelz, 04/21/2004
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've driven this car for 3 weeks and I continue to be impressed daily with the smooth steady powerband of the V-8 and the very quick handling dynamics. This car surprises you with what it can do. Build quality and fit and finish is excellent and I enjoy driving a car that is distinctive in design. This is a car that provides the comfort of a large car and the handling of a well- balanced sport sedan. I have owned 4 cars from the other 2 German competitors in the past 12 years and the BMW is by far superior to them all.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

A great Automobile

W.D.T., 12/11/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is a pretty fast car but could be much better. I do give the handling at high speed a thumbs up. But again could recieve some help. Nothing put out yet since the introduction of the M3 has given the BMW it's reputation of a really fast,economic,handling,comfortable, all around great car and following the time of technology and improvement! Which is what I would love to say. I have considered a Benz to tell you the truth.

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5 out of 5 stars

Best by far

waxahach, 12/27/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I tested every other make in its class including Audi, Mercedes, Jaguar, Lexus, Infiniti and Cadillac. While all the others were very good cars, the 530i is a in class by itself. Truly the Ultimate driving machine, its new styling and outstanding engineering coupled with an unequaled performance makes it the buy of the decade. You have done it again BMW and thanks.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great car

hoopzmaker57, 11/30/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 545i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Buy the car. It is great. It is fun to drive and very reliable. Go buy it now.

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5 out of 5 stars

bmw 530i

bmw530i, 12/28/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

BMW 530i is the best car sedan

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3.75 out of 5 stars

So So

Joe from the North, 12/29/2003
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is my second 5 Series BMW. Compared to the previous version, the 2004 is roomier and more comfortable. The trunk is larger and the new electronics are enjoyable. However the feel and drive are not as tight and driveable as previous versions. The interior dash doesn't have the look or styling of a luxury car. The i-drive, although not as complicated as the 7 series still is difficult to use.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Could be better

JMZ, 05/31/2005
2004 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Like the looking and performance. Marked 225 hps but feels stronger than Infiniti G35 during the acceleration, which claimed 280 hps. Navigation system works better than my portable Garmin one, particularly the voice reminder, split screen: one for map and one for arrow direction. Parktronic and adaptive headlight are good features. The basic stereo sound is already better than the Bose in my previous Infiniti i30. Things I do not like: the interior looks cheaper than most of the same level cars in the market. IDrive is ok but not much advantages. No mp3 playable although the manual said so. No DVD playable in parking like Infiniti M Series.

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