Update
We've had the 428i Gran Coupe M-Sport for four months and still enjoy it.
We recently returned from a nine day scenic tour through the Ozarks of Missouri and Arkansas. The 428 G.C. proved to be a great platform for the trip with comfort, performance and versatility. Packing the car was easy with room to spare, even though my wife takes A LOT. Whether fully loaded with luggage or empty for day trips, the handling and performance were excellent.
The sporty performance of the car in the Ozark hill country was very enjoyable. Don't get me wrong, we don't drive crazy or anything. We conform to posted limits but in the hills there might be a speed limit sign every 20 miles and typically with a 55mph or 65mph limit. On these remote twisty back highways it's actually challenging to get up to the limit in many places. Think Tail Of The Dragon. We like to travel these back roads during the Fall on weekdays. Virtually no traffic. Where the fun comes in ... I do like the twisties. A LOT. The hills and endless curves call to me.
Our E39 540 Sport was amazing on these roads. The torque of the V8 was intoxicating but I have to admit, the little turbo 4-cylinder did a great job. We were pleasantly surprised. It pulls well out of corners with a broad torque curve. The M-Sport 8-speed transmission works Very well when pressed with rev-matching on down shifts and snappy quick up shifts. While it has the now typical electric techno-cr*p steering that is a little numb, it is darn accurate and quick and it's noticeably better than the steering feel/handling of current 3-series and 5-series. The brakes are strong, immediate and consistent.
The gas mileage was significantly better than the 540 ever returned averaging 30 mpg.
Another pleasant surprise ... shortly before leaving to return home she found a couple of large pieces of wall art for our home. A large framed mirror and a large painting, both at least 36" x 60" ... Okay ... The car is already packed ... will they fit? . Drop the back seats and everything fits with ease, no problem. Sweet.
Is the 428 Gran Coupe M-Sport a true replacement for the E39 540i Sport?
Well ... ... ... um-mmm ... ... ... pretty close.
It will never Feel like an E39, those days are gone but, it's a pretty darn nice car and we enjoy it. A Lot.
Yes, the 435 G.C. M-Sport would be even better but, for us the extra $5,000 to get the 6-banger just wasn't needed.
... maybe next ... ...
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E30 325is . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fun little Rascal
E39 540i Sport . . . . . . . .ah-hhhh ... Hated to let her go but, after 10+ years it was time
E90 330xi Sport. . . . . . . Oh, we should have kept that one
E90 335xi Sport. . . . . . . Hallelujah ... GONE !
F25 X3 28i . . . . . . . . . . .Wife's first SUV -- traded
F25 X3 28i 2.0T . . . . . . . Her 2nd SUV -- traded
F25 X3 28i 2.0T . . . . . . . . . . Wife's newest ride
F36 428xi G.C. M-Sport . . . . Highway Cruiser
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