ShuffleUp

I can get an 08 528i w 15k miles for about 1500 more than an 09 c300 sport w 19 k miles. Options are basically all base on both and similar. I know a lot of this comes down to personal preference and this is an apples to oranges comparison, but I'm struggling.

The 528i is obviously bigger and originally quite a bit more expensive so seems the better value on the surface. I drove both today and liked both. I liked the wood and interior of the 528 better than the c300 but absolutely favor the exterior of the c300 much better. I didn't do any taxing driving on either during the tests to have a clear preference in handling and frankly I normally drive quite tame anyhow. I think part of me is looking at the style of the BMW as common just because I see a lot mire of them where I live than the Benz.

Anyone who has spent time comparing both I would appreciate any feedback. I don't want to pass up a good deal either way.

clkcadet

No experience with the 5, but I would choose it over the C300. This is just my personal preference as I have a child, and its a bit roomier. I lease my C, and if a 5 was in the same price range I would choose it over the C.

I also assume driving dynamics are better in the BMW. Should have smooth delivery of power and great handling.

TheGreatOne45

the 5 is the better choice altho the engine may b a little underpowered for the chassis

Samieee

I've owned a 535xi in the past. I think the power of the twin turbo is just right. It's a heavy car and the 528 power might be a bit lacking. Handling on the 5 is definitely better; a much stiffer ride. MPG seems to be similar between the two. Highway driving is more stable and smoother in the 5 than the C. The bigger space is definitely a big plus.

I'd definitely choose a 5 in this comparison.

Carsy

If you are not a particular sporting driver I would go for the more supple & comfortable suspension.

Has the Beemer run flat tyres & a spare? .No spare, no purchase as far as I am concerned.

Like a woman ,I would buy the car that was the easiest to live with!!

Interested to know which you choose.

Sportstick

Buy the one you like to drive more.......
Take a picture and make a poster of the one with better styling.....

ShuffleUp

Thanks for the suggestions, I appreciate the thoughts. I will go take one more look at both today and I will probably make a purchase this coming weekend. No run flats on the 5 which is good.

BlackjackM

I dislike the look of that version of the 5 series- the newer one isn't bad. Also, if it has Nav, the old iDrive system, frankly, sucks. The newer, updated one is much better.

jctevere

There is something about BMW that also intrigued me to "want" one. However, when the time comes to purchase the car, there is just some gut feeling holding me back from taking the dive. I have chosen the G37 and my c300 over the BMW 3 series coupe and 5 series, respectively speaking.

What was the clincher for me to get the c over the 5? Size. I am young, 20, I didn't need such a huge car. Plus, the mercedes is a mercedes, BMW is a dime a dozen. I am sure the c-class will be more reliable than the 5 series. And not to mention, your still paying quite a lot for a vehicle that has already been replaced by the a new model. It kind of irks me that BMW is making all of their vehicles look identical, both inside and out. I would go with the c-class and put the extra $1,500 into modifying it and making it yours.

ShuffleUp

I know exactly what you mean. The size is a little more relevant to me because I have a daughter but we aren't a huge family (in number or size!) and so either will probably work. I do feel like the BMW's are far more saturated here so that is one of my reservations but it's not completey rational to make a decision based on that. I am undecided still but I have to think about size aspect and give each another drive.

Azn_C300

between the two, not taking into account price, 08 528 any day..

encoder

I've driven my bosses 528i. It's tragically underpowered.

hitokiri89

My aunt has the same models and year 5 series your looking into so i have driven a lot . I have never driven a 300 as i have a 350 but i can at least give my opinion of the 5 series . It handles nicely very tight but not overbearing , has decent amount of room and some pretty cool options in terms of seat positioning . However i don't like the 5 series . The steering is horrible ( not at all like the great steering from the 3 ) it has a different steering system than the other models and years . Basically the car figures out the direction you want to turn the wheel and kind of puts it there . That hard turning feeling that makes bmw steering great just cuts out once the car figures your intentions and makes driving non enjoyable . The seats are also not comfortable ... they hard and not as supportive of the ones found in the c class , thats not to say they dont do cool things . You can change how much the sides of the seats bolster you which i like a lot and they have extending knee support . The " comfort " mode in the 5 is very very boring and slow ... no fun at all . When you put in sport it is a lot more fun to drive , picks up good and makes a nice sound . The base media system is just weird to use and the dial is huge . If you want to change the direction of ac or heat from face to feet or whatever you have to go through the media system . All in all i see it as granny car .... i think it looks like a big shoe and for the most part feels like one when your behind the wheel . I dont know how the c300 feels or drives but i'm sure its more entertaining to drive than the 5 series is . In terms of looks i think most will agree with me when i say the c class is much more striking and even graceful in comparison with the 5 series . If you need the extra space go with the 5 but if you can live with a little less cabin and trunk room i pick the c hands down .

FrankW

5-series...no brainer question.

it's like asking would you take a E-class or a C-class.

encoder

Nah, it's like asking if you want an E300.

There shouldn't even BE a 528. It's so underpowered.

delirium

The 2008 528 has a 3.0L engine though, so its a little misleading.
I would pick the 528 over a C300, its not like the C300 is a fast car either, might as well go for the 528.

Sportstick

You may have a different set of standards. 7.1 seconds to 60 does not take a car off the market.

http://myautoworld.com/auto/BMW/bmw-...8-5series.html

If it did, those of us with C300s would not be here.

http://www.ridelust.com/entry-level-...ar-from-basic/

krnxalex123

528 anyday

MBnewby

535 but not 528, need the power if its that homely :o)

ZeroSeVen

iLL go with '08 528

With the figures stated above, the 528 has lower mileage and it's resale or trade in value will be higher than the C300

Peabody

I wonder in what part of the process you decided the 5 series was a "better value" to purchase, because of the fact it depreciates in value faster.

clkcadet

Its funny the same engine in the 3 series sedan feels pretty quick, how much more could that 5 weigh!

Peabody

My second though is, why would you want to buy a used car that is a base model from Mercedes or BMW? Look around to find them with the options packages, they're dramatically discounted on used cars. Base models from either company are pretty much bull****.

hmc

I had 06 525 and now both 550 and C300. No doubt I would pick 528 over C300. 5 series feels much more refined.

Pete7874

I'd take a 528i manual.