2014 S5 vs 435i xdrive

[joehardware]

Has anyone come across a head to head comparison of these 2 cars?

I've got a bit of a dilemma, as I'm looking to buy one of them (or at least order) within the next couple of weeks.

I've been driving a 2010 A5 2.0T (w/APR Stage 1 tune) for the past 2 years, and love most everything about but always felt it was missing something. That something is more power, exhaust note, and a manual gearbox. I should also add that I live in Eastern Canada, where I contend with snow for 5 months of the year. For this reason, the A5 has been an absolute beast for me, and part of why I'd like to stick with the Audi family.

I've priced both of them out to my specs, and they are within a few grand of each other. (6MT, Drive Select, Titanium package for S5. 6MT, M Performance package I & II for the 435i xdrive). The S5 is based on a 6 year old platform, while the 435i is new. I'd beg to say that the interior of the 4 is way ahead of the current S5. That said, I prefer the look of the S5 over the 4 series, and Quattro > xdrive. S5 is also slightly faster on paper, although I suspect real world differences would seem/feel minimal. I'm also guessing that B9 S5 will arrive sometime within next 2 years.

So what would you do, given the situation? 2/3 year lease/finance on S5, just in time for new S5, or 2/3 year lease/finance on 435i (Again, just in time for new S5)

I'm 60/40 in favor of the S5, but am trying to do some crowd sourcing here. Also hoping that I can pick up some more info/first hand experience with some of you that might have test driven the 435i, etc.

[adam123]

i really liked this video the only problem is i have no idea what they're saying

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=th4w9wfIgXc

[adam123]

i really liked this video the only problem is i have no idea what they're saying , i also looked at the 435 and i found that the s5 was a better all around option with more tuning and modding affordability and capability, the tune capability in itself was the difference maker for me. I found the s5 interior to be much more complete, comfortable and driver friendly. The ease of staying with Audi was also a selling point for me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=th4w9wfIgXc

[M3_WC]

I would say the interior of the S5, fit/finish/materials is much better in the 435i. Not the other way around. Although I do like the new bmw idrive with the touchpad.

[vinnymin]

Agreed on the interior. There's no comparison. The Audi guys just nail it.

[ernsrs5]

If you have access, get last month's issue of EVO magazine, I believe that's the one in which they compare the S5 and the 435i (not X Drive however). The S5 doesn't come close in their evaluation from a dynamic stand-point. The X Drive may be another matter? EVO is probably the very best performance auto mag, and they've been very critical of most S and RS models since the RS4. They also love the R8. They had an early RS5 in their fleet, and were very critical of it, saying the S5 was a better proposition….so, I of course went out and purchased a RS5, and after a bit of an adjustment love the car. Drive both and get the one YOU like.

[SixthGear]

Has anyone come across a head to head comparison of these 2 cars?

I've got a bit of a dilemma, as I'm looking to buy one of them (or at least order) within the next couple of weeks.

I've been driving a 2010 A5 2.0T (w/APR Stage 1 tune) for the past 2 years, and love most everything about but always felt it was missing something. That something is more power, exhaust note, and a manual gearbox. I should also add that I live in Eastern Canada, where I contend with snow for 5 months of the year. For this reason, the A5 has been an absolute beast for me, and part of why I'd like to stick with the Audi family.

I've priced both of them out to my specs, and they are within a few grand of each other. (6MT, Drive Select, Titanium package for S5. 6MT, M Performance package I & II for the 435i xdrive). The S5 is based on a 6 year old platform, while the 435i is new. I'd beg to say that the interior of the 4 is way ahead of the current S5. That said, I prefer the look of the S5 over the 4 series, and Quattro > xdrive. S5 is also slightly faster on paper, although I suspect real world differences would seem/feel minimal. I'm also guessing that B9 S5 will arrive sometime within next 2 years.

So what would you do, given the situation? 2/3 year lease/finance on S5, just in time for new S5, or 2/3 year lease/finance on 435i (Again, just in time for new S5)

I'm 60/40 in favor of the S5, but am trying to do some crowd sourcing here. Also hoping that I can pick up some more info/first hand experience with some of you that might have test driven the 435i, etc.

That's too funny. I'm in exactly the same position, have almost the same current car and mods, from the same area, and debating the same cars, on the same day.

So far the S5 Technik is ahead of the 435i X Drive M Package for me.

That German video basically said that the 435i (non-X Drive) was more updated and more fun to drive, but the Audi was faster although becoming dated. They felt the 435i could have been faster in a longer straight line, but personally the track time proved the S5 was quick. The only thing going for the Merc was it's windows.

The other problem with the comparison is that they didn't indicate if it had the +37hp/tq option. Seems like an Apples to Oranges comparison in the end (which was disappointing).

Yes we are 2 years away from the refresh, the new A3 gives hints of things to come.

I'm also VERY disappointed about Audi's new FIRM stance on chipping. Really kills it for me. Chipped, the S5 wins for me HANDS DOWN. Basically +$20k RS5 power for S5 + $500. Always made Audi a winner. The Chris Harris video is awesome.



I'm still searching, but need to place my order in the next 2 weeks...

[Zee Dgerman]

Has anyone come across a head to head comparison of these 2 cars?

I've got a bit of a dilemma, as I'm looking to buy one of them (or at least order) within the next couple of weeks.

IMO, and i'm no fan boy of either brand as I've owned both over the years, the new 4 doesn't look as good as the S5. Too busy, actually looks kind of japanese to me. Of course, the 4 is a newer car and will probably drive a bit sportier. But I find the S5 ages very well. The same can be said about the M4 - RS5. While I'm certain the M4 will be a better car than the RS5, I find they went overboard with the design. Looks like an modded car. The RS5 looks classy and will remain pretty even after they update it to the next model.

Bottom line though, get the one that appeals to you more in general. But I would get the S5, in estoril blue

[joehardware]

Thanks to all of you who posted. Very helpful, and much appreciated. Of course I'd expect to get some biased feedback on this forum, but you gotta take it all with a grain of salt.

I'm still leaning towards the S5 (test drove an s-tronic model last month, and I'm already sold on the engine), and I think I'll ultimately be pissed at myself for not getting it.

SixthGear - Let me know what you decide on. Have you test driven both?

[superswiss]

I saw a 435 for the first time at the San Francisco Auto Show over Thanksgiving. I walked away disappointed, but I haven't driven one yet. I thought it would look more distinguished from the 335. I don't think the interior stands a chance compared to the S5. Everybody for some reason is moving away from the cockpit feel. At one point I owned an E46 330 Coupe. It was my first and last BMW :-), but it had the cockpit feel. The current A/S/RS5 have this same cockpit feel with everything angled towards the driver. I personally didn't realize until I sat in the 435 how used I have gotten to the additional center console space that is wasted by the traditional handbrake in the 435.

In the past the xDrive versions of the 3-series were watered down cars. There was clear focus on utility and not sport, evidenced by the fact that you couldn't get a sport suspension. I don't know if that has changed with the 4.

I think the major difference is that Audi uses quattro not only for all-weather traction, but as an integral part of the cars performance. xDrive on the other hand is mostly about all-weather traction. I do wanna drive an M4, though, once it hits the dealer lots.

[netwerknerd]

It's a good video, and the S5 wins out with the 1/4 mile speed test as well as the curvier test track, but they give the "Artistic Experience" win to the 4-series. The moderation faults BMW for spartan design, and gives the Merc thumbs up for trying to infuse style into the new 400. Audi still struggles to beat BMW over here in Germany, while more and more the Mercs are seen as an old-man's toy.

[DinB]

I didn't drived a 4 series but I did sit in it and play with the toys. 4 series has more high tech options like HUD etc. However, I still find the interior quality and design below that of the the S5. Exterior wise it can go either way, but the 4 series does look a bit more aggresive IMO so it will depend on your tastes and age. Can't speak to how it drives.

[ians]

I own both E92 335i (RWD, N54TT, 6MT, sport pack) & S5 (3.0T, 6MT, sport diff), yes the S5 is a newer car, but my butt keep telling me I only have smile on my face when I am behind the wheel of the S5 and I didn't feel a single bit that I want to drive the 335i anymore, the funny things is I still not refuse to drive my 10yr TSX at all! So now my preference is S5 > TSX > 335i. TSX still absolutely reliable, smooth engine & butter smooth 6MT, also didn't show any aging problem on a 10yr old 150000km car but really lack of power and gadgets. The S5 gave me power, handling, looks, comfort, refinement and surprisingly it has a even better 6MT than TSX, it just the prefect car for me! The 335i... yes, it has power, it handle good but that's it, it rattle like a tin can, n refinement, after a few years, it drove worst than a 20 yr old civic, you always worry it will break down anytime (did I mentioned I got CEL more than 10X!), both the engine & 6MT are damn so rough! After having the S5, the 335i made me feel like driving a beat up mustang! if not my wife insists to keep at least 1 bmw, I will never back to bmw forever! been there done that!

[SixthGear]

I've got all the numbers from them, the last piece of the puzzle is the test drive. So far the S5 is ahead for me. The only thing the 435i can do to win is be CRAZY fun to drive, but I already have a supercharged E46 M3 track car so I'm not sure there'll be enough to sway me.

I'm going to check when the dealerships are open and go for a test drive of both.

[NuVega]

The Audi A5-series are a timeless design, they will look good for years. The new 4-series aren't bad, however If I were to get one it will have to come with the M-sport package, otherwise the front end is just plain ugly to me. Performance wise they both perform well, S5/4-series, so no comment there. Interior the S5 is driver oriented, very nice, 4-series seems to just have lines going everywhere, I'm sure the materials are nice as expected. The problem I see with the 4-series is that likely within in a year or so you'll see more of them on the streets just like the 3-series, however you'll still be hard pressed to find an A5/S5 as they still seem elusive, which is what I like.

[FaceSmA5h]

So what would you do, given the situation? 2/3 year lease/finance on S5, just in time for new S5, or 2/3 year lease/finance on 435i (Again, just in time for new S5)

I'm 60/40 in favor of the S5, but am trying to do some crowd sourcing here. Also hoping that I can pick up some more info/first hand experience with some of you that might have test driven the 435i, etc.

Congrats on the opportunity of purchasing a new car. If I was in your situation, i would definitely lease a 435i for 2-3 years. Lease rates for the 428 and 435 is phenomenal. BMW has the residual value around 63-64% right now for a 3 year lease 10k miles per year. I'm more a less in the same boat. I ordered a new A5 and I'm on the fence about leasing/buying, leaning towards leasing so I can leave myself room to switch to a B9 or 4 series.

However, I think the interior of the S5 w/ Carbon Trim & Nav > 4 series. Stock for Stock (Exterior), I also think the S5 wins, but I'm sure you can see the potentials of modding it with all the M4 pics. My favorite thing about the 4 series is the Estoril Blue and the option to add FULL LED.

Good luck with your decision!

[AofC_RR]

S5 just because it doesn't have that stupid speedhole/porthole thing on the side. WTF BMW?

[GSS5]

While the S5 is essentially an 8+ year old design, to me it is a much more compelling car overall than the 435. Granted I love BMW and think they definitely make a quality product, I am trying to be as objective with this as possible. BMW has had the good part of 5-6 years to make the 4 Series better than the A/S5 in every single aspect, but they have come up short on that end. There is nothing really that the 435 does so much better than the S5. And with the facelift, Audi has done a really good job with keeping the S5 relevant to today's car market.

I can't speak for driving dynamics, but I have driven a new 335 back to back with a b8.5 s4 and the BMW was much more fun to play around with.

In the end, you can't go wrong with either. Go take both for a test drive, price them out and pick the car that you feel is right for you.

[sternalot]

Seats are better in the 435 M-Sport. I like the power delivery in the 435xi better, but would like a sportier exhaust. More space in the boot. Was going to buy one over the S5 before I went RS5. As a fan of Mid century modern design, the BMW interior actually is pretty solid IMO. I guess not everyone's flavor, but nothing is universal when speaking of taste.

Most, if not all, of the distinctive differences come down to personal taste. No one on here will really help you decide which YOU like better. They really aren't all that different.

[AudiRSpeed]

Here is what the M4 sounds like : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gb22MNMREmY

It speaks for itself

[CyberS5]

I've had my S5 for 2 years. I've been itching for another sports car and have looked at the 435 M-Sports. I think the BMW coupe may be more planted with a tighter steering feel, just like my previous 3 series. But the S5 will continue to be a better grand tourer and a plush interior. Externally, the BMW will still look like the myriad of BMWs running on the road, and my 2012 S5 will continue to have that classic look that will survive the test of time. In short, I'm most likely going to stick to the S5.

[saraojo]

I actually saw a 435xi m sport, the other day and was impressed. I did not test drive it but in my opinion the exterior of the m sport looks slightly better. The interior of the s5 wins slightly, although the 4 has better tech since its a new platform. If I had to choose from the two now, I think I would choose the newer 435 because I would prefer a newer platform. The s5 is still a great car. Can't go wrong with either

[S5LUVER]

I have a E92 335 and just got a 2k14 S5. BMW is a great car no denying it and I havent driven the new 4 series yet which im assuming is awesome. The S5 I only have a 100 or so miles on it but what a car. Its plush like mentioned above and pretty fast/quick stock and I love the ameneties the B/O sound system is awesome..the new MMI and that you can tweak the car a few different ways as far as susp..steering wheel feel etc. I have a DSG my 1st automatic car for me ever and im very impressed. Im also going to tune my car in a few months. And like mentioned the S5 design is a classic no matter how old the design is. But I would drive both you cant go wrong with either GL

[BoostEasy]

I was in the same boat: 2011 335xi lease ended on Nov 4, 2103, had to my get next car. I ended up withh my 2014 S5 purchased the last week of Oct.

I test drove the F30 and...meh. In the end it was too much of a price increase for a car that to me was just ugly in too many areas of the exterior styling. I really did NOT like the new design language on the F30. The new 235 looks great though. The execs that approved the current styling on the 3 (and the fugly i3) need to get sent on permanent vacations. I park my S5 next to an F30 in my work parking lot just to annoy the driver that he bought the uglier new car.

My thoughts around both brand's offerings:
1) Styling. I always liked 4 door and BMW had the more stylish, handsome car in the E90 3s, IMO. Apologies to the S4 guys but the S4/A4 is just too bland for me. Enter the S5. Timeless good looks like a Supra that will be graceful 20 years from now. Every time I passed on one the road, it just solidified my need to own one.
2) Engine. The N54 BMWs are very fast now with 400WHP no problem on stock turbos and 11s commonplace w just a (cheap!) tune and good gas & tires. The N55 models like my 2011...not much power over 5k rpm but are BEASTLY below that with a tune. N55 turbo upgrade by vargas just came out for around $4-5k and made 470WHP and 11.4 ET first time out. So the N55 is a rising star IMO. The 3.0T is no slouch though, does run 11s without major mods so, when I bought, I felt the engine potential was somewhere in between the N54 and N55 and was enough for me. Owning the S5 is pretty quick stock so tunes aren't even needed for many I feel.
3) Transmission. The autos in the E9x 335s aren't bad but they do seem a little confused at times. Can't handle serious upgrades to engine either and no upgrade to the trans has held up to 500+WHP so far. It also really pissed me off that BMW chose to offer their DCT in only the 135i and M3 in the states while practically every other market in the world gets it. As the Audi S4/S5 have the DSG, I was excited to finally get one. The new F30 does have a really slick ZF 8AT though. Shifts amazingly fast and very smooth. Having the DSG for almost 3 mo now...it is awesome but I wish it had a mode in between "D" and "sport".
4) Limited Slip Diff option. The ultimate driving machine has an open diff only, go figure. I'm really happy with Quattro and esp the sport diff. I've not had a chance to really push the car yet but I have turned off traction control and the car does get pretty tail happy. Looking forward to HPDE!
5) Suspension. I don't bother to drive non x-drive 335s as I need AWD and all I can say is the S5 on 18s and my new 19s, is hands down better handling and way better on bumps than either of my 335XIs. The 335xis on runflats have to be driven to be believed how bad they are.
6) Trackability. I always wanted to do HPDE and while people do in the 335s, they have their issues and esp the Xdrive versions, I don't think they'll fare nearly as well as an S4 or S5 with very basic mods.
7) Interior. I'll debate anyone that an Audi s4/s5 interior is "better" than the E90 or F30 BMWs. My sticking point is BMW uses very nice materials and I personally find iDrive easier to use vs MMI. Audi S5 interior is airplane cockpit and techno where BMW is elegant. I like the S5 seats better, esp the available alcantara, but that's about it. Both of my 335s were dead quiet too, no shakes or squeaks. I wouldn't give the advantage to either car here as it comes down to personal preference in styles IMO.
8) Exhaust. Both brands don't seem to gain much other than sound with aftermarket exhaust. I really liked the 335s' turbos because you can smash the gas and the car wasn't very loud so as to alert the whole neighborhood you're driving aggressively. I really like that. Not sure how loud my S5 is but over all it seems pretty quiet except for mildly annoying drone from the center resonator because the DSG likes to lug around at 1200-1400rpm everywhere in D.
9) Sound system. The B&O in the S5 is high quality to my non-audiophile ears but the BMW E9x HK system is a bit better because of the bass subs right under the front seats. They rock. I added a rear amp and I'm looking for the perfect box for a pair of 10" subs for my S5 as I write this...

Get the S5 or wait for the M235i maybe.

[joehardware]

Thanks all!

After much thought, I've decided to go with the S5. I'm calling my dealer tomorrow to place the order (Progressiv, Black w/black interior, 6MT, sports differential, and Titanium package). They are telling me to expect a late March/early April delivery. I know that if I went with the 435, I'd feel sick every time I saw an A5/S5. I don't think I'd feel the same the other way around. Sometimes, you just have to go with your gut.

A long few months coming up, but can't wait!

[SixthGear]

Thanks all!

After much thought, I've decided to go with the S5. I'm calling my dealer tomorrow to place the order (Progressiv, Black w/black interior, 6MT, sports differential, and Titanium package). They are telling me to expect a late March/early April delivery. I know that if I went with the 435, I'd feel sick every time I saw an A5/S5. I don't think I'd feel the same the other way around. Sometimes, you just have to go with your gut.

A long few months coming up, but can't wait!

Same here, looks like I'm S5 bound as well! :)

[Zee Dgerman]

Congrats! welcome to the 5 Family!

Thanks all!

After much thought, I've decided to go with the S5. I'm calling my dealer tomorrow to place the order (Progressiv, Black w/black interior, 6MT, sports differential, and Titanium package). They are telling me to expect a late March/early April delivery. I know that if I went with the 435, I'd feel sick every time I saw an A5/S5. I don't think I'd feel the same the other way around. Sometimes, you just have to go with your gut.

A long few months coming up, but can't wait!

[TitanG545]

I was in the same boat about 2/3 weeks ago, what solidified the S5 for me is the lack of performance on the 4 series. For a new car it's performance should blow away an older car, but yet it doesn't. All the fanfare surrounding the new 4 series and it is only marginally better in performance.

[superswiss]

Doesn't BMW always introduce their new platforms with the engines from the previous platforms? If I remember correctly, the E46 top trim was the 328 just like the outgoing E36, then one or two years later they added the 330. Same for the E92. The top trim was the 330 before they introduced the 335. So expect a 440 in a couple of years or something like that.

Sent from my Nokia Lumia 920 using Tapatalk

[lditty]

audi

[FaceSmA5h]

Doesn't BMW always introduce their new platforms with the engines from the previous platforms? If I remember correctly, the E46 top trim was the 328 just like the outgoing E36, then one or two years later they added the 330. Same for the E92. The top trim was the 330 before they introduced the 335. So expect a 440 in a couple of years or something like that.

Sent from my Nokia Lumia 920 using Tapatalk

I don't foresee a top trim for the 435i coupe. However, it may be reserved for the grand coupe (4 door 4-series).

[FaceSmA5h]

A long few months coming up, but can't wait!

Anticipate 5 months...or it's going to drive you crazy!

[GSS5]

Doesn't BMW always introduce their new platforms with the engines from the previous platforms? If I remember correctly, the E46 top trim was the 328 just like the outgoing E36, then one or two years later they added the 330. Same for the E92. The top trim was the 330 before they introduced the 335. So expect a 440 in a couple of years or something like that.

Sent from my Nokia Lumia 920 using Tapatalk

i hope you're joking.

[M3_WC]

i hope you're joking.

No he is not joking. That is how they have done it in the past.

The successor to the N55, the B68 will most likely debut in the 4-series Gran Coupe and then trickle down to other models. The B68 is based off the architecture of the 3-cylinder B38 for the Mini.

Rumored name changes to 440i, 340i, etc...

[mdgrwl]

FWIW I just test drove the new 335 and its noticeably more of a drivers car vs. the S5. More involved 'connected' feel to whats going on on the road. Its sharper, lighter and more agile. The S5 give you less road feel and a more detached driving experience, even in dynamic mode.

The new BMW interior layout is still cold and utilitarian, but the materials are a notch better. Less hard plastics, more softer to the touch materials all around the cabin. I like the layout and looks of the S5 interior, but the materials are a touch more plastic like.

Having said that, I would still go for the S5 based on looks. It just looks much more sexy...

[GSS5]

No he is not joking. That is how they have done it in the past.

The successor to the N55, the B68 will most likely debut in the 4-series Gran Coupe and then trickle down to other models. The B68 is based off the architecture of the 3-cylinder B38 for the Mini.

Rumored name changes to 440i, 340i, etc...

The top level trim for the E92/93 (not the E90) was always the 335. And when they phased out the n54 for the n55, they kept it the 335. And when the 328 received the new 4 cylinder, it remained the 328. With BMW all about downsizing these days, i don't see any evidence supporting the notion that it'll be called a 340/440 to put it on par with the 640 and 740. But who knows.



Sent from my iPhone

[Mik3ymomo]

I was in the same boat. I drove the S5 and it didnt live up to my expectations. I really wanted to like it too. I had never owned any Audi or BMW so I wasn't interested in one over the other. I like the way both cars look.

The S5 felt number and softer. Softer in a bad way. It dove under braking while the BMW 435xi Msport with Dynamic handling package does not.

I ended up getting the 435xi and do not regret it. Actually it's exceeded my expectations and was very confidence inspiring to drive on a long trip from NJ to NH and back over the holidays.

In comfort mode it's pleasurable without feeling like a boat. It stiffens up well in Sport mode if you prefer it.
I got 25 mpg on my trip driving about 80mph on avg.

Could it be faster? Sure. But you can get a tune from BMW without sacrificing your warranty.

I also own among my other cars a Mazda RX-7 with a 6.2L LS3/T56 that puts 430/440 at the wheels. So I don't care if my daily driver is the fastest car on the road. It's still fun to drive and most recently realized very good in the snow.

I already have a race car and its nice to have a modern Sports coupe that's still capable yet comfortable.
Just so happens I preferred the BMW over the Audi but I have no ill will towards Audi. It's just this match up the BMW came out on top for me.

Either car is a win depending what type of ride and handling you prefer. The Audi felt more luxury then performance while the BMW seemed to have the compromise perfected in my opinion.

I came across this thread by accident and figured I would sign up and give you a quick review of why I chose the BMW in this case.

- Mike

[YelloJello]

New Car and Driver article: http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/...al-test-review

"You eventually adjust to the lack of feel, but all it takes is a short drive in an old 335i coupe or an Audi S5, to realize what you’re missing."

[Wilbur]

I just came back to Audi after 3yrs with a 335 e92. Beautiful car (red & all CF interior-spectacular) but reliability really tapered off near the end. I bailed out early. B9 S5 for me....
When the new B9 comes out IT will be superior to 435 and then when the next 4 comes out IT will be superior and then when the B10 comes out.......................
Both pretty awesome cars.

[FaceSmA5h]

Just saw a very nice Estoril Blue 428i/435i today. I'm glad I chose the Audi.