Goodbye Boxster - Hello S4 or 545i?

[johnp68]

Sad to report that I've now sold my Boxster S after 3 wonderful years' ownership due to the arrival of our first child earlier in the year. I'm therefore looking for a replacement vehicle, which must have 4 seats (and doors, hence not an M3) and be fun to drive. Trying to decide between buying an Audi S4 and alternatively getting a BMW - something like a new shape 545i. Can't think of any other alternatives that fit the bill. Test drove the Merc E500 and Jag S Type R and didn't like them much. Considered a 2002ish BMW M5 but bit put off by potential running costs.

I've read all the reviews, and had one fairly short test drive in each of the S4 and 545i. I think I'll have to arrange at least a whole day test drive or car hire to decide which is the one for me. So far, I loved driving the S4, it gave me a huge grin, no doubt largely due to the glorious sound of the V8. The 545i is still quick, but would realistically would have to be an automatic and feels a lot heavier. On paper the S4's MPG looks rather scary, even compared to the 545i. Seems like the 545i would be a good choice for a quick and roomy family car, but if I were being selfish I'd be tempted to choose the S4.

Just wondered if anyone here has owned either or both of these cars in the past and so can offer advice on what these cars are like to live with on a longer term basis.

Thanks
John

[workshy fop]

Haven't tried an S4 but have had good goes in a mates 745i and g/f's dad's 535d. OK the 7 is heavier, but I'd say the 535 is the faster car. He got it when they first came out and got £3k off list(about 9%) when I printed out the www.drivethedeal.co.uk price for him to take to the dealer

It wasn't that impressive when I first had a go, but with 10,000 on it now, it's really shifting and doing 35+ mpg.

I'd got for a specced up 10,000 miler second hand.

[anniesdad]

Try emailing 5th Gear.

Tiff Needell's daily driver is a 545i Touring.

If you have a look in the VMAX forum, there's some pics of him at VMAX VIII (I think) getting it very sideways. Looked a hoot.

S

[Merlot]

S4's are outstanding. I've got a couple and a Boxster. On a bone dry day the Boxster is the best but otherwise there is no contest. The fact that S4's have four seats is a bonus.

[johnp68]

That's good to hear Merlot. After driving the Boxster for 3 years I've been finding most of the cars I've tried a bit disappointing, with the exception of the S4. I think I need to find somewhere that rents S4s out for a day, so that I can be certain before I part with the cash.