Although there is much fan fare over a lot of the traditional automotive publications -- known as the "buff books" -- and their beliefs in the world of motoring, in the end it really comes down to the buyer. When you start heeding to the advice of a large majority of people who have never owned and cared for a luxury vehicle, things get a bit fishy.
We see more value in the owners of multiple luxury vehicles and have a true "taste" for what they want in life, whether its a high-end audio system or an Audi, BMW, Infiniti, Lexus or Mercedes-Benz. Remember, cars are subjective objects and there isn't one perfect vehicle for everyone.
Here we have an interesting story though. A former electrical engineer turned CEO recently picked up a 2011 BMW 550i M Sport and gave it a thorough review on Bimmerfest. Not only did he detail the positives and negatives, but he also has experience owning a variety of luxury autos from Audi, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz.
My favorite part about the review is when he discusses audio systems though:
"Most people will consider the audio system [in the BMW] to be very good. If you want to hear a GREAT factory car audio system, go listen to the Burmester in a Porsche Panamera. WOW!"
That's straightforward commentary that is hard to come by in today's day and age of journalism, specifically in the automotive realm.
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I recently obtained redelivery of my 2011 550i after initially receiving it at the Welt in Munich during a Euro Delivery in October. I have driven it 900mi in Europe (Germany, Austria, Switzerland and France), with another 400mi in So. California after receiving it a couple of weeks ago.
Here is a bit about me, so you can get a better idea where my perspectives are coming from: I am 53, an Electrical Engineer and CEO of a Home Technology integration company that designs and installs electronics systems (Home Automation, Lighting Control, Audio, Video, Home Cinema) for the ultra wealthy. So, my experience in technology integration and expectations regarding fit and finish is probably lopsided. I am also a bit analytical.
In order, my previous few cars have been: 2008 550i M-Sport, 2005 MB E500, 2001 Audi A6 4.2, 1998 Lexus GS400. So, I have sampled a number cars in the premium 4 door sedan category. My previous favorites were the BMW and the Audi...
[Source: Bimmerfest]
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