When I purchased my 1995 E320, almost 8 years ago, it was considered to be the best used car value for more expensive premium automobiles. Within a year or 2 of my purchase, the newer version of the 5 Series BMW became the best-rated used car value in the premium used car market. I don’t know all of the model numbers and dates for the changes in the BMWs, but at some point the BMW solved many of their issues with reliability and thus the 5 series became a preferred purchase. I love my 1995 E320, but I think the 1997 5 Series might be as good or even better as a used car value. My w124 does have a more unique appearance, since there are just so many 5 Series BMWs that look so much alike. In my neighborhood, you don’t see as many nice W124s these days.
I just can’t get excited about the Lexus LS. They may be great cars, but somehow I just don’t feel any excitement about them. I feel about the same way about the W210 E-Class. I just never fell in love with them. I love the looks of the new W211, but the W210s just don’t do it for me.
As for the 7-Series BMW, I have to say that the short wheelbase version of the car is one of the few vehicles that makes me feel like I would be willing to trade for my E320. I think the long wheelbase ruins the sporty look and feel of the 7 Series, however, so I would only consider the shorter version. I have a feeling that the maintenance might be an issue, but I think the 740i is definitely one of the finest looking cars on the road today.
I love my E320, but a 740i is VERY NICE
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I just couldn't give up on my 1995 E320.
I think it might be like always going back to that same bad relationship with an ex girlfriend.
You feel you love them too much, or you are just too stupid to know any better.
Flickr slideshow of my 1995 E320
http://www.flickr.com/photos/24145497@N06/sets/72157616572140057/