Automotive

The previous body style of 5 series; the E60 545i & 550i were very different from the V10 M5.  That M5 was difficult to drive around town (mainly transmission), was very stiffly sprung, and was also much noisier when the 545i/550i were very quiet and calm cars.  The 545i and 550i (when equipped with Sport package) had active roll suspension, which smoothes out the ride by preventing body lean in curves (this is now known as "ARS" on the current 5-series and is a far less common $3500 option) that the M5 did without.  The active roll suspension is a 7-series technology trickle down; it works by having a motor twist the anti-roll bars in the suspension to prevent the car from leaning in the curve.  It's a fully active technology, not a passive technology, but it doesn't take into account everything; for instance if the banking of the curve is unusual for the curve, the computer probably doesn't take that into account.  Someday, there will be a stereo camera that will be mounted to communicate to the car's suspension computer.  The system designed to increase the handling limit of the car, but at the same time really reduces the feel (and the satisfaction) from the driving experience.  Porsche has the same technology now called PDCC (Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control) and some purists and magazine editors have stated they don't prefer it even though it does contribute to significantly faster lap times.  So, overall the difference between the 545i/550i and M5 was quite substantial in 2004-2010 model years, but in the current 5-series iteration, the gap is much less substantial.  

The M4 will be the coupe and the convertible.  It's not going to be available in the "Gran Coupe" though due to roof-line issues.  

No plans yet to acquire one.  Although I already know what color and options I'd get it in if I were to get one.  

When the car first came out, back in 2012 as the 3-series.  I said to myself that I found the design strange, it looked more Scandinavian to me than a BMW.  I've driven a few 3-series rental cars of the latest iteration and I have to say it is one fabulous machine.  When I drove that car, I said to myself I genuinely almost don't feel the need to drive a Porsche or a Corvette anymore.  This car is THAT good.  You should try one out Ed.  Such a good car.  Not the most lively steering, and the throttle response from a standstill isn't perfectly timed, but otherwise the car is fantastic.  The balance and the handling of the car is truly among the best.  And the 4-cylinder engine in the 328i is shockingly fast.  

There's an M4 looking for you!  The car's thinking, a tall guy with a Panerai watch would look good in me.  

I can see the appeal.  

Hmm, in fact, a Panerai looks even better in a Maserati.  

Since they're such a bargain in the US, you should buy one here in the United States.  When you're not using it, I'll drive it around, and after it's a year or two old (and heavily depreciated), ship it back to The Netherlands with minimal import duties.  

The M4 will cost more in Germany than it will in the US.