2012 bmw 5 series msport or 2013 A6 se

shirazhyder84

Considering 2012 bmw 5 series msport but also have the option to go for 131 A6 SE saloon. Both are priced at 18K, available at the same independent dealer. Both have full service history. 5 series is 75k miles and A6 is at 85k miles.

Which one to go for? I usually change my car every year, which one would be more desirable and thus would depreciate less in 1 year? Lastly, which one would be mor reliable?.

I drove both of them today and though im a huge bmw fan and was eyeing msport, but i liked the drive of a6 better.

Thanks!

Squatman

Im an avid bmw fan but iv an a6 estate now 2013 and i must say its a joy to drive. The egrs seem to give trouble in this model. Double check the garage warranty - the independent mapfre warranties arent really worth their salt.

520 bmws are cool but i think would drop more in value and might give issues. In either case 18k is rich for each car.
Tldr: go for audi

ongarite

I've an F10 but would recommend the A6 based on year of car & budget.
Don't like the M-sport steering wheel in pre-LCI (pre-July 13) and usually also have small iDrive screen which is looks poor IMO.

bazz26

A 5 Series M Sport would be more desirable than an A6 SE because the SE in both 5er and A6 is rather conservatively styled. I'm also not sure of the logic that the A6 will have higher resale value given they are both costing the same money now despite the A6 being a year younger. M Sport will have a stiffer suspension than the A6 SE but in these cars the suspension is fairly comfortable anyway even in M Sport or S Line spec.

You need to be aware of the timing chain problems with the BMW engines though, they can be problematic on cars right upto 2014. A detailed service history is vital and evidence of frequent oil changes is paramount.

Are the cars your looking at auto or manual? If the 5 Series then auto is much more preferable and suited to the diesel engine. Manual 5 Series are not very desirable. With the A6 I'd go manual over the auto as in the 2.0 TDi the multitronic automatic is a CVT box which I didn't find very nice to drive and they have been known to be troublesome. Just remember with manual versions you will be have to deal with the usual dual mass flywheel wear on most modern diesel engines that eventually need replacing.

I've had a 2011 520d SE, a 2014 520d M Sport and now a 2015 530d M Sport so I'm fairly familiar with them, ask away if you have any specific questions on the F10 5 Series.

shirazhyder84

Thank you everyone for your valuable input. I am no longer considering to buy the two mentioned cars from the dealer as he was offering mapfre warranty, which i have been told is worth nothing. I think i am better of buying from bmw or audi and avail their used cars comprehensive warranty.

bazz26

18k is expensive for a 6 year old 520d from a dealer offering a mickey mouse warranty anyway.

rabbitinlights

i'd be looking in the Uk - You'll get a nice 525d over there for that.