switching to RS4 from E39 M5 ?

[dude]

I currently drive a E39 M5, wonderful car, but have lately thought about changing to RS4. I know it's faster, at least when tuned. But is it fun to drive ? Anybody out there going from M5 to RS4 or from RS4 to M5 ? How would you describe the cars and if buying one now, which one would you buy ?

Thanks

[Fastlane]

Hi!
I have had most of the M models from BMW as well as several S models, and I always enjoyed comparing them. I had the 2001 E39 M5 for almost a year. Compared to the RS4 (which I bought in May) it feels slightly heavier, more body roll etc. But the M5 is much better balanced and offer more "chrispiness". The power is present all the time and your driving position in the car is much better. The M5 gives more feedback, especially when you begin to push it hard around the track. The RS4 is some of a different concept, in my opinion. The car is a total perfect all-round car. I live in Norway, and here you can expect slippery roads for most of the year, so for me the choice is easy for me. And yes, not to forget, in a straight line the RS4 is quicker. A lot. Then your choice off mods... You will not regret.

[Golich]

Easy way to decided, take a test drive preferably without the salesman. If you take your partner I usually find they let you have the car by yourselves.

If not, be upfront with them. Tell them your predicament and that nothing short of a spirited drive is going to tell you what you need to know. If they don't understand or can't accommodate - that's their potential lost sale IMO!

Its the all round factor of the RS4 which makes it such a great car. If you don't need an all rounder its probably not the car for you. It's very good at most things but obviously isn't the best sports car, estate car, luxury car, Diesel fuel econmoy etc etc.