BMW M Sport package questions

[ChrisThomas]

Hi,

So I've got a couple of dealers with offers that are both decent, but now comes the decisions,

So there are 2 520D's with similar mileage and same year, however, one has the M sport package and the other doesn't.

The M sport is a quite a bit more expensive, so I want to know if it's worth it?

I also wanted to know, the M sport tyres are different in the rear correct? Meaning more expensive maintenance?

Also, the car needs to be comfortable for my aforementioned back problems, so is the M Sport package a no go because of the firmer suspension? I didn't feel too much of a difference between the two on the short test drives that I took, but the one without the M Sport did seem to have a slightly softer seat cushion, might be my imagination however.

Any input would be greatly appreciated,

 

[Slootvreter]

I might be wrong, but is the M sport package not mostly cosmetic?

 

[ChrisThomas]

I might be wrong, but is the M sport package not mostly cosmetic?

From what I can tell there are minor differences in the suspension and the seats, but I am struggling to find a proper breakdown of the differences.

 

[Bryn]

From what I can tell there are minor differences in the suspension and the seats, but I am struggling to find a proper breakdown of the differences.

If I had to guess:

- better looking
- less comfortable
- higher trade/resell value

 

[satanboy]

BMW M Sport package:

eg:
Sport seats for driver and front passenger
Star-spoke styling 400 M with mixed tyres, front: 8Jx18”,
225/45 R18, rear: 8.5Jx18”, 255/40 R18
M Aerodynamics Package

seems mostly cosmetic

 

[DuckKnuckle]

You'll get the M front and rear bumpers, M steering wheel, M rims which are bigger and the car will most likely be on runflats so extra costs to replace. You'll get the M suspension as well.

M packaged cars usually have a better resale value.

 

[ChrisThomas]

You'll get the M front and rear bumpers, M steering wheel, M rims which are bigger and the car will most likely be on runflats so extra costs to replace. You'll get the M suspension as well.

M packaged cars usually have a better resale value.

I think all BMWs are on runflats these days

 

[ngwe23]

Besides the look, which is obviously different, the M Sport package is firmer, lower and a bit more aggressive than the standard package. I am not sure if the 5 series has run flats, but my 320d has. If you combine the run flats and the firm suspension the ride is very jittery in uneven surfaces. The car moves around a lot. Test drive both cars, preferably on uneven surfaces and see if your back can take it.

 

[AlexCT]

I think all BMWs are on runflats these days

All non-M bmw yes. M3 ETC will come with normal tyres.

Bumpers will be different.
Better steering wheel
Better seats
Gloss black trim
Shorter springs (might be a negative for you)
Better resale and looks better

For me I would go with the msport.

 

[Dlamaqhinga]

I think all BMWs are on runflats these days

Correct.

 

[ChrisThomas]

Besides the look, which is obviously different, the M Sport package is firmer, lower and a bit more aggressive than the standard package. I am not sure if the 5 series has run flats, but my 320d has. If you combine the run flats and the firm suspension the ride is very jittery in uneven surfaces. The car moves around a lot. Test drive both cars, preferably on uneven surfaces and see if your back can take it.

Yeah I think the M package might be a bit firm for my dodgy back, thanks for the info! I think I will be perfectly okay with the standard setup given my more relaxed driving style anyways!

 

[satanboy]

You'll get the M front and rear bumpers, M steering wheel, M rims which are bigger and the car will most likely be on runflats so extra costs to replace. You'll get the M suspension as well.

M packaged cars usually have a better resale value.

The suspension is an optional extra with the M package afaik.

 

[DuckKnuckle]

The suspension is an optional extra with the M package afaik.

Always thought the suspension was stiffened and the car slightly lowered as standard on M cars.

In any case, 18" M rims with thinner profile runflats are nice and expensive. Better off buying a biscuit and using non-RFTs to soften the ride and lower the road noise.

 

[satanboy]

Always thought the suspension was stiffened and the car slightly lowered as standard on M cars.

In any case, 18" M rims with thinner profile runflats are nice and expensive. Better off buying a biscuit and using non-RFTs to soften the ride and lower the road noise.

On my list it shows as a R7,5K extra under the M package.

 

[DuckKnuckle]

On my list it shows as a R7,5K extra under the M package.

Mmm, the more you know.

Thanks satan

 

[Muttley]

I bet the indicators are brand new and have never been used on either

 

[FiestaST]

I bet the indicators are brand new and have never been used on either

Anyhow OP you have a busted back. I would not advise M Sport pack for you.

For a non-busted back M Sport pack is strongly advised Ito looks & resale.

If fact I think a nice E will just be up your alley

 

[satanboy]

A BMW thread always attracts the haters.

 

[FiestaST]

Just like a VAG thread attracts one (1) hater

 

[ahoudet]

I had a standard 320d and 320i Coupe and they both had a slightly hard ride... I'm not sure how much of a difference the M Sport package will be in terms of comfort. Either way, before buying I'd recommend you go for a long test drive and explain the reasons to the salesman. Go and find different surfaces to drive on.

The runflats don't help - the suggestion to find a biscuit is a great idea.

As mentioned by Fiesta, try out the E and maybe even check out the A6?

Would a crossover/4x4 like the X1 not be a little more comfortable with the raised suspension?