BMW 530i Review: Sibling Rivalry?

What did catch my attention too was where the “Park” button was placed. In many cars nowadays, handbrake levers have been removed in favour of a symbolised “P” button, which are usually hidden unfavourably somewhere.

In this, you get a really clever knob (unlike those other knobs who designed those hidden parking brakes) where a “P” button on the top of it allows you to simply slot the gear up and press it to park.

So, the 530i does do everything it should pretty well. It carries five passengers, has a 520 litre boot capacity, goes around its business as if it is a fast, cozy sofa and comes with looks which won’t get you nasty attention too.

Problem is, it is, after all, a 5-series.

While the attention to detail is immaculate and the minor touches will please you, it does feel rather dull and boring.

And that brings up a very interesting alternative.

The BMW 335i Coupe costs the same amount, $238,800, comes with a Bavarian mountain-full more sex appeal, can seat five, hold some luggage, and is even more powerful.

What puzzles me though is why one might prefer to go for a saloon like that when, for the same price, they can get its 3-series sibling.

Both are still BMWs, which means you can turn up at business meetings in the Coupe without feeling as old (ed. and as comfortable) as you would in the 530i. And you would probably feel fresher and more energetic as well because the 335i is, for a fact, the more fun car to drive. Additionally, that also means you can sleep in a little later because you can get to work faster.

Not forgetting, the chicks would be checking you out a lot more than they would if you drove up in a family saloon.

To put things into perspective, the 530i is like the good-looking lady who cooks very well, but is a little meaty, while the 335i Coupe is the younger, more gorgeous one who might not cook as well, but gives you plenty of desserts.

You get the picture.

Credits: Text by Andy Hum, Photos by Amery Reuben