Saab 9-5 Aero vs BMW 328i

[Brandnew70x7]

I don't think a 9-5 compared to a 3 series is a very fair comparison. 5 series is probably more likely.

[Moekazi]

My 2003 Aero changes dramatically just pressing the little 'S' button on the auto tranny shifter. I'm glad that it's not in Sport mode all time as the neck snapping can be harsh.

[mad-machine]

Originally Posted by valbowski1980

A co-worker gave me the keys to his 2009 328i 6-speed (loaded with every possible option).... Have to say that the only thing that my Aero does better is accelerate due to the torque. The Beemer is by no means short on power and it handles, stops and rides miles better than the SAAB.

I wouldn't at all mind a CPO 328 with AWD (his is RWD) as my next vehicle... They really are fantastic cars.

While the AWD bimmer is good.. it's handling is not as good as the RWD version. It is also slower and brakes worse due to the added weight of the AWD system. It's steering feel is not as good either.

Unless you see a LOT of snow.. I would just throw snow tyres on it and be amazed at how well a RWD can handle the slippery stuff

[J-Rod]

Originally Posted by mad-machine

While the AWD bimmer is good.. it's handling is not as good as the RWD version. It is also slower and brakes worse due to the added weight of the AWD system. It's steering feel is not as good either.

Unless you see a LOT of snow.. I would just throw snow tyres on it and be amazed at how well a RWD can handle the slippery stuff

Damn! The RWD ones must be REALLY good then. Lol. I was impressed by the braking, steering feel, and handling of the AWD version.

[valbowski1980]

Originally Posted by mad-machine

While the AWD bimmer is good.. it's handling is not as good as the RWD version. It is also slower and brakes worse due to the added weight of the AWD system. It's steering feel is not as good either.

Unless you see a LOT of snow.. I would just throw snow tyres on it and be amazed at how well a RWD can handle the slippery stuff

I live in Mass and travel to Vermont and New Hampshire quite a bit... An RWD car in New England is IMHO a bad idea. Whatever car I buy next it has to be AWD.

[mad-machine]

in that case... you could do a lot worse than not buying an AWD bimmer. I remember reading an article about the original IX.. the 325IX that came out in the late 80s.. the writers were ho hum about it's snow capibilities.. drove it home in several inches without incident.. until they realised they were the only ones on the road without incidents.