OK I did a search and didn't find the answer to my question.

TL = 270 HP, 3480lbs, 1/4 mile @ 14.8 ($35,395)

530i = 225 HP, 3740lbs, 1/4 mile @ 15.0 ($55,795)

All specs per R&T Data sheets. Other specs and dimensions are very close.

Why can't the TL run away and hide from the 530??

I understand the gearing is different but why are they so close?

 

what's the torque comparison? HP and weight mean nothing if you don't have the torque numbers... TL is 238, what is the 530i?

 

I believe the TL will smoke the 530i, I'm not sure what you are asking?

 

A very lackluster, 214lb-ft for the 530i. IMHO, you've got to want a new 5-series REALLY bad if you're willing to pay 55-large for the 530i. But I guess I shouldnt knock those weak power numbers too much, seeing as it weighs 3500lbs. That SMG must be doing something right.

 

do not forget that the TL's HP and torque is mostly on the top end (close to redline). i had the opportunity to own both cars. the BMW's power and torque
is in the lower/mid part the powerband.....

i had a 1998 528i and a 2001 530i both with the premium and sport packages.
my father has the 2004 530i with almost eveyrthing. i am telling you now, i am very happy with my conversion to the TL. i have all the extra $$$$ in the bank!!

 

I'm not sure if the data above is accurate?

 

sorry for the confusion. what i was trying to say is that the max numbers for the TL is in the top end (~6850 rpm?).

i guess this is what people have been saying about Japanese HP compared to the European HP.

also, just an FYI - most of the time, the European numbers are a little on the conservative side. the new 3 liter engine from BMW will be coming out in 2005.
it will be rated at 250 HP. it will be introduced on the new 3 series which will also be moving up in price since the entry level BMW will be the 1 series.

 

BMW is notorious for underrating their engines.

 

I cited a source for the data. Someone else provided the torque figures.

My question relates to the fact that to me, on paper the TL should kick the snot out of the 530i. The real world data in this comparison says that they run about equal with an increasing edge to the TL @ top end (from the full specs).

Just curious, I love my TL and have no problems with it.

 

Did you try to race a bit with the 2004 530i ?

I was at a traffic light with one and the guy was pushing the car but wasn't able to overpass me. Was he really floor his car i don't know ?. But when i checked the price of this BMW compare to our TL i was quiet satisfied for performance/price ratio we have.

May be the guy was suprised that an Acura TL start so fast ?

 

which is a good thing i suppose

 

try to get a new M5~ lol

530i...-_-b not bad~ but not worth that much money~

 

IMHO there are only 2 5-series that are worth buying 545i or M5

 

The new 5 series body is not very attractive, IMO.

 

The 5 series is very heavy too.

 

Just an FYI but for $55800 you can get a 545i auto with 325 hp/ 330 lbft, still quite expensive but $56k is a supremely loaded 530i.

Gearing is a big issue but another big issue is probably traction, rear weight transfer and RWD gives a better 60ft time where the 1320 is won and lost.

Vandy

 

Not my figures. Those were Road & Track Prices & Specs for 2004. The 530i was equiped up to where or TL's w/Navi are. I don't think BMW will ever get even $30K of my money. You're right about the traction.

 

530i is not a powerhouse, it's one of the most balanced car in the world with the silky smooth powertrain and the exceptional handling.

545i has tons of power but the V8 is heavier than the inline 6 for overall balance

 

Probably because of the 5-Series's weight. The 3.0L in a 3-Series shows that engine's real potential.

 

huh?

The 5 weighs more so they should be even farther apart.

I agree with the underated comments above. Their cars always seem way more powerful than their ratings.

 

LOL!!!! Wanna Run???...I have an 04 530i..That boy is a TANK..TL will step on the 530i anytime.

 

the tl is a free revver; since it has a v smthing motor (srry cant think on the name ) it needs the high rpms for any realt hp or torque numbers. but with that motor, comes more fun.....





____________
tip the scales!!!
04 anthricite tl nav/5at
96 toyo landcrusier
03 suburban z71

 

What I'm saying is that the engine itself is a gem. Ie, it's the 5's weight that's even allowing the TL to keep close.

 

I presently own a 02 530I Sport W/sportshift and of course a fighter jet 04/TL Auto. The 530I is a tank. Great for the wife to drive but not 'fun' enough for me. I think it has about 240hp (rated at 225). The TL is quicker but they are about even on the top end. The 530 auto is much smoother than the TL, but the TL is much more fun to drive. Put the 3.0 BMW engine in a 330I and you'll run even off the line.

 

I wasn't saying your numbers were incorrect just pointing out it was a seriosly loaded 530! The 5 series is quite a bit more than the TL in any form just pointing out for that kinda cash you could have the much quicker 4.4L.

Vandy

 

They have, through the years, been able to outrun cars having more horsepower yet weighing less than the respective BMW's. I can post #'s if anyone is interested. I've always been amazed.

 

again huh??

The TL has more power and less weight. Hence it should be faster and is faster. YOu keep implying that the 5 is faster

 

I think he's saying that the engine is better suited in for something lighter (i.e.: 330i) If so, I agree and it is a good powertrain. If the 530i went on a diet, it's performance would be more on par with the TL (not to mention, it would return better MPGs).

That aside, it seems to be an attractive choice for the demographic it seems to serve (around here in central NJ): the 30-45 y/o professional female. I still cant justify paying $50-large+ for a 530i (or the E320, for that matter).