2003 S500 or 2003 745i Sport
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 3,455
Likes: 11
From: Long Island, NY
W220 S65 AMG
2003 S500 or 2003 745i Sport
So I have the check and pen ready in hand, just sign and go. But I can't come to a conclusion... I am shopping at a dealer, he has both a black 2003 S500 and a black BMW 745i Sport in stock, both with almost the same milage, both within $1000 price of each other and both with ultra clean, one owner CARFAX reports...
I've driven the W220 so many times, but I've never been in a 745i... maybe some one can tell me their experience with it.
I am torn apart, and I can't make up my mind which one I want... maybe you guys can influence me.
By the way, both are Black on Black...
VS 
Both cars are freaking sexy, but I can only get one...
I've driven the W220 so many times, but I've never been in a 745i... maybe some one can tell me their experience with it.
I am torn apart, and I can't make up my mind which one I want... maybe you guys can influence me.
By the way, both are Black on Black...
VS Both cars are freaking sexy, but I can only get one...
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 716
Likes: 1
From: Alaska
Lexus
I had a 01 S500 and I had the same decision.. I got a 745LI. I'm happy with my decision, I went to the dealer the other day and they changed my oil, microfilter, battery updated the software replace the door sills and kick panels that someone had destroyed(literally must have drug their feet across them every time with steel toe boots). all under warranty. no charge to me. Pretty cool for a used car..
My only complaint is the lack of torque(mb whoops its *** in torque) and idrive will drive you crazy for a week, and also "not feelin" the 4 spoke steering wheel(looks too old).
I love the power trunk closer, sunshades in rear doors and rear window.
My only problem with the w220 is that the changes are very subtle and I wanted a big change, but didn't want to fork out 90k for a w221.
If you get a 745 watch for the options, they are so many different configurations. Conv. package adds major luxury, and after the s500 you have you won't be able to live with out the softclose doors.
Don't get me wrong I love the s500 but for the money I'd take the 745. I really want a CLS, thats next. Cls55 when they get below 75k..
Oh also the warranty is a little longer on the BMW fully transferrable. under warranty 100k miles or 6 years.
Remember check you options when looking for a 745. Everyone wants conv. pkg and 19" rims and power trunk, steptronic trans. White is the most expensive color. I have a Black Saphire one..
also- LI vs I
LI= 9-10" longer added in rear door, more chrome trim,(moldings and window trim) usually comes loaded up.
I = shorter, more sporty, less chrome, usually doesn't have as many options. Usually 1500-2000 less in wholesale market.
Good luck,
Scott
My only complaint is the lack of torque(mb whoops its *** in torque) and idrive will drive you crazy for a week, and also "not feelin" the 4 spoke steering wheel(looks too old).
I love the power trunk closer, sunshades in rear doors and rear window.
My only problem with the w220 is that the changes are very subtle and I wanted a big change, but didn't want to fork out 90k for a w221.
If you get a 745 watch for the options, they are so many different configurations. Conv. package adds major luxury, and after the s500 you have you won't be able to live with out the softclose doors.
Don't get me wrong I love the s500 but for the money I'd take the 745. I really want a CLS, thats next. Cls55 when they get below 75k..
Oh also the warranty is a little longer on the BMW fully transferrable. under warranty 100k miles or 6 years.
Remember check you options when looking for a 745. Everyone wants conv. pkg and 19" rims and power trunk, steptronic trans. White is the most expensive color. I have a Black Saphire one..
also- LI vs I
LI= 9-10" longer added in rear door, more chrome trim,(moldings and window trim) usually comes loaded up.
I = shorter, more sporty, less chrome, usually doesn't have as many options. Usually 1500-2000 less in wholesale market.
Good luck,
Scott
Last edited by ScottCLS55; Apr 17, 2006 at 07:38 PM.
Newbie
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
I own both of them right now and based on my ownership experience I would choose the 745Li hands down. Dont get me wrong, I like the S and I own it because it was a relative bargain compared to the 7. The 7 is just a much more refined car that handles better and the BMW customer care is 3x that of Mercedes Benz.
Just my $.02
Just my $.02
Super Member
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 790
Likes: 17
From: West Palm Beach
2004 S500
The 745 will out handle the S500...but the S500 has a better ride and is quiter.
The performance is pretty close with the edge going to the S500. If the car is for your driving enjoyment..buy the 7...if it is for total comfort for you and your passengers...buy the S500. They are both great cars...you will enjoy owning either one.
The performance is pretty close with the edge going to the S500. If the car is for your driving enjoyment..buy the 7...if it is for total comfort for you and your passengers...buy the S500. They are both great cars...you will enjoy owning either one.
Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 169
Likes: 0
From: Orange County (OC), California
Minivan
I hear what you are all saying. But if you really want a great luxury and performance car, the S600 with the AMP package is an awesome set up.
I have owned most types of sports cars and the S600 has great car performance.
The two cars I now keep is a 2004 S600 AMG and a 2005 911 Turbo S cab. The 600HP 911 Turbo S is one of the best sports cars around and the Benz is right there with it in all aspects and I think can beat the car up to 100MPH.
I have owned most types of sports cars and the S600 has great car performance.
The two cars I now keep is a 2004 S600 AMG and a 2005 911 Turbo S cab. The 600HP 911 Turbo S is one of the best sports cars around and the Benz is right there with it in all aspects and I think can beat the car up to 100MPH.
