Ol1i3x

both are just about the same price (bmws slightly more expensive with similar options).
performance bmw will smack the A5 as proven when it beat the s5 on the track but besides performance does anyone have experience comparing the two?

road feel? fit and finish? luxury.. etc etc?

tajabaho1

wrong forum? etc etc

JRichter

If the A5/S5 had enough rear-wheel-drive bias programmed into its electronic torque distribution then It might not be too bad but I would still think the 335i would be the better driver's car hands down. The A5/S5 looks really good and would be less common than the BMW. From what I've read the fit and finish is excellent (as is most Audi's) and the ride is probably tuned more towards comfort, than sport on the A5.

Rootski

iTrader: (1)

Probably not going to find people who have driven both on here. I've always preferred Audis, but couldn't really tell you why. I guess part of it is everybody's got a 3-series and they're not particularly pretty.

s204speed

S5 is a better comparison, but over 10k more expensive than the 335i and not as quick. S5 if you want luxury and great interior, 335i if you want a driver's car.

Ol1i3x

i dont see the problem with posting requesting information about other cars in the general automotive section...

personally i prefer the a5 just because it looks better and there are fewer of them making it unique. where i live (irvine) you see 335i's left and right. but i cant deny how amazing it is performance wise.

MazdaJeff

I almost think that the A5/S5 is more of a 6 series competitor. More in the size and weight department than performance or price.

faboo

I think the S5 is stunning...

the Beemer looks good too, and like most have said, will perform better...but i would still take the audi..

devildog1679

I just picked up my wifes A4 today, if the A5 handles and drives better then the A4 then it will be a hell of a ride.

playdoh43

audi long term reliability has been around the bottom of the barrow every year in JD power's annual survey, i dont think i can seriously consider audi until they raise their reliability rating

jdoo

I sat in an S5 at the dealer and the A-Pillar really blocked a lot of my view. It was at the perfect angle and size that I would be somewhat concerned about safety. Nice looking car from the outside though.

The R8 had great visibility

devildog1679

We leased her car. She likes to change cars evry 3 years or so, no sence for us to buy so longterm reliability was not an issue. Really fun car for a sedan.

playdoh43

good to know one thing i like about audi and bmw and benz is their service quality.

devildog1679

The first service is free at 5K Every 10K after that.

Kris

I have had experience with both, We currently own a 530i and it has been a great car. My father was looking for something a bit more sleek this time around.

he ended up with the A5, the 335 is quicker, but the interior is bland compared to the audi, and it is very very common. FYI good luck with getting into an A5 anytime soon, we have been waiting 2 months already with a 6-7 month waiting period for it.

S5 is 10-12 month waiting.

FYI: we purchased the following:
2009 MY
A5 Auto/tiptronic
S Line Pack
Tech Pack
B&O sound system
Park Assist
Ibis white / black interior (with the S-line pack you only get to add the black interior) but you also get the black headliner, sport seats / suspension the upgraded wheels and the S-line appearance pacage.

It looks just like the S5 minus the quad tips on the rear and the silver mirror covers, and ofcourse the engine.

I frequent www.a5oc.com quite often as well, just to see how the waiting times are, but be prepared to wait, also dont expect a price reduction. We got 1200 dollars off and thats apparently a steal since many dealers are only selling at MSRP or even higher due to the lack of inventory.

If you look into the A5, definatley look into the S-Line package. it offers a good amount of upgrades.

GULAMAN

Pretty much my thoughts exactly (I've driven both S5 and 335). The BMW gets the edge in most of the performance comparisons (in dry weather at least). the only subjective driver-related items that the S5 wins on is gearshift and clutch feel; the 335 has the typical BMW rubbery shift action and high clutch engagement. (soooo different coming from the RX8). but those are pretty minor.

The S5 is very elegant and capable for sure, but I can't see myself buying one as an 'only car'.....esp. when an E90 M3 Sedan is only ~$3K-$4K more.