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2003 BMW 525i |
Model specs:184 hp |
Damn, this car rocks... Immediately upon seeing the car, it feels like you've found something special. The lines flow freely, forming an edgy silhouette that is somehow smooth at the same time. It appears big, but by today's standards is the size of a mid-size car. The interior is very well appointed and welcomes all passengers with open arms. All controls are aesthetically placed and sensible. The woodgrain trim gives a very classy feeling about the car, but isn't overbearing. It definitely lets you know you’re sitting in a more luxurious car than I’m used to and all controls feel to be of a very high quality. The seats are wrapped in leather that is in perfect condition and soft, yet durable. The driver's power seat feels infinitely adjustable, but is unfortunately lacking in lumbar controls. I initially scoffed at the lower leg extension, but it is a surprisingly nice addition. As for complaints, the stock cup olders are pathetic and useless, but this can easily be fixed with the purchase of a cheap pack from walmart which is relatively close to the interior color and easily integrated into the car by slipping it into joints in the interior peices. Furthermore, I find the armrest/center console to be a bit baffling. It slides forward/backward, but the fact that it doesn’t lift up to expose a storage space simply boggles my mind. This is available as an upgrade from non-USDM cars, but just seems weird to not be on USDM cars considering the prevalence of this functionality throughout other vehicles. I've never been one to be quickly impressed by cars, but this one has several small gadgets that I consider to be huge upgrades and/or cool tricks. This includes how the passenger side view mirror angles down when in reverse to aid in backing into spaces, rolling down windows and opening the sunroof at a distance with the keyfob, and one-touch up/down windows on all four doors. The steering is heavy, but responsive and perfectly transmits every action by the driver. The ride is firm and tells the driver the intricate details of the road being driven, but is never intrusive and remains comfortable. The springs and shocks are perfectly balanced to give a smooth ride to the passengers, and yet still provide a fun and responsive experience for the driver any time he is on a twisty road. It is surprisingly agile and it drives like a car considerably smaller than it. The engine is very smooth and has good torque, but runs out of steam over 4000 RPMs. The car itself feels faster than it is, but when you are actually trying to get down the road, you quickly come to realize how underpowered the 2.5 is compared to the other engine choices available on this car. |
Mods:Newer model rimsRemoved intake silencer Cup holder upgrade |
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