Recommend a car or two

[oyvindgee]

I'm on the lookout for a new car, but I'm absolutely clueless besides what looks nice and what I think goes fast etc. I've been thinking something along the lines of BMW 316/318/320/5-series, Audi A4-A6, maybe a Lexus. Of those, I'm currently leaning towards a BMW 320, but that's mostly based on looks. Can anyone recommend one of these or even better suggest something good with a similar price tag?

Given my choices, I guess it's pretty obviuous 300hp isn't all that important, but somewhat sporty would be nice. So would a decent amount of comfort/style, but maybe that's asking a lot.

[Moonshine]

the new BMW 3 series hits 300hp i believe...i'd go with that

335 i think? definitely the best in its class between audi and lexus

[theben]

Lexus IS 350
new Infinity G35 sedans

a TON of bang for buck there. they absolutely crush german cars in what you are gonna get under the hood for what you'll pay

although i'd prefer a BWM335i sedan over those sedans, a BMW335i also going to be about 44-47K after options, where a G35 with options will be more like 33K and a lexus closer to 38-39K

[RobBizzle]

The new BMW 335i is PIMP. Get the coupe, I saw one a little bit ago and loved it. They are pretty quick also.

[morello]

If you're deadset on buying new and its in your price range, go for the 335i. If its too powerful/you want something more luxurious, give the Lexus IS 350 a look. I don't think you'd want Infiniti based on what your post said, though I love their look from the outside.

[gonebroke]

If you plan on buying a BMW 5 series, don't waste your time with a 525 or 530. They should not even be in the same class as a 550. With that said, I highly recommend the 550. Very fast and fun to drive.

[theben]

not everybody cares about having a uselessly oversized, gas guzzling engine. also, upgrading engines represents a large increase in initial cost and not everybody can stretch their budgets that far.

i guess every poster on this forum makes over 400K/year

[morello]

Why reply at all? The OP specifically mentioned looking at the 5 series. No need to start bashing responses that talk about high end-ish cars.

Bitter much?

[imported_Chuck Weinstock]

I've been a very happy Audi owner since 1984. I cannot say enough good things about them. If all wheel drive is an issue where you live Audi Quattro is the gold standard. Although BMW's are more plentiful (at least around here) I don't think they are in the same class (model for model.)

Chuck

[theben]

there is a huge difference in initial price and lifetime fuel expenses between an entry 5 series and the top model (M5), or the best non 'M' grade auto. but as I said, everybody here is extrememly wealthy so this doesn't matter.