Thinking of Selling B8 S5 V8 For B8.5 S5 Cab or e93 BMW M3 Convertible

[HipHop615]

I have owned my 2011 Audi B8 S5 for about 2 years or so. It has been my first euro car I have owned; so far I love it but maintenance is no joke as you all know. I miss having a convertible since my 350z Roadster. Also I didn't buy a warranty on this card and obviously regret that as I have dumped thousands in maintenance.

I am looking to Sell / Trade In for a newer (Prob 2013/2014) Audi S5 Cabriolet or my original attainable dream car e93 BMW M3 Convertible (Prob 2010-2012). Being on an Audi forum prob most people would think the S5 as the better choice? Thoughts? Here are my few Pros on each.

Audi S5 Cab:
Already know Audis in general a bit as I have owned one for a few years. Know Part brands, a few shops, other owners, etc
Already own VAG-COM, and other parts that are just sitting in garage waiting to be installed (KW V3 Coil-Overs, SPC Camber Arms, HRE FF01 Wheels)
Better Gas Mileage than V8 M3
Newer by a few years; perhaps better tech inside?
Supercharged and easily upgrade power with Tune & Pulley Upgrade
I would assume less maintenance over m3 motor but maybe I am wrong
AWD vs RWD

BMW M3:
I think overall better looking car, having hardtop over soft top
400+ HP on N/A Car
Sound / Power of V8
Overall better Suspension/Handling, Brakes.
Something to be said about owning an M class BMW (I still have never driven owned one)
Seems to have plethora of options for customizing (Exterior & Performance Wise)

[snocat17]

Another thing: How many M3's do you see on the road? Our Audis are very rare.

I also like the feel of the Audi steering wheel vs the BMW ones. After all, that is what you're really holding onto when driving.

Thousands in maintenance is better than tens of thousands wasted on an extended warranty, IMO.

[NYCB8S4]

Why dont you stay with Audi and get a RS5 ?

[HipHop615]

Another thing: How many M3's do you see on the road? Our Audis are very rare.

I also like the feel of the Audi steering wheel vs the BMW ones. After all, that is what you're really holding onto when driving.

Thousands in maintenance is better than tens of thousands wasted on an extended warranty, IMO.

Yeah that is def another good point, That's another thing. I rarely see modified S5 Cabs which I do like as well.

Why dont you stay with Audi and get a RS5 ?

Trust me I would love to but out of my price range.

[RockJGC]

Personally, I'd get the BMW if you are comparing an E93 M3 vert vs an B8.5 S5 vert. Why? Well, the V8 engine sounds alone are worth it. But keep in mind that the V8 in the M3 will almost certainly need new rod bearings if they haven't already been replaced on the car you choose.

[ICU2]

Having owned 3 Cab’s from the Audi brand over the last several years I can give U my very biased POV. I’m all ~ the AWD & functionality of the Audi’s over the BMW as a DD, d/t where I live & inclement weather vs. where U live, weather is likely not that much of an issue for U.

IF U haven’t driven either yet, I would strongly advise doing so & drive BOTH. To much $ to spend on assumptions & opinions of others. My suspicions R that U will find the M handles/maneuvers better, more initial “snap” of acceleration from the Audi, better interior & creature comforts as well. Better “note” from the M. If U R planning on adding/modifying there is probably more available for the Audi vs. M class, but any “mods” will likely negate any remaining factory warranty on either car, if any remains. No “mods” will also proably favor the Audi as U may be able to find a reasonably priced CPO given your stated preference for cars & model years. If U have spent considerable $ on the Audi & U DON’T plan on modifying, a CPO is difficult to beat, all 3 of mine were/are.
My 2007 S4 Cab, nothing other than routine maintenance. 2010 S5 Cab: Mechatronics went out 2 months after I bought it. 1st thing the dealership did was ask ~a tune or a mod & I confidently said NO. ~ $4000.00 later I had a brand new mechatronic unit & I only paid the $80.00(?) deductible. Next was a thermostat, then a 2nd thermostat, then a H2O pump & finally a wrench left inside my hood on top of the drivers side front fender well when I got home & looked under the hood & had some light. The CPO on the 2010 Cab certainly paid for itself. IIRC over $6000.00 in total repairs, fluids, towing, excluding a loaner each time & ~ 7 weeks total w/o my car. The thermostats x 2 & H2O pump & then the wrench, led to my current RS5 Cab, after many phone calls to AOA & the dealership. RS5: Fuel Actuator door & a transmission coolant line rattling off of a heat shield, that’s it. With that said, I am a complete Audi fan boy & a total Cabriolet fanatic, NOTHING beats top down driving!
Sorry for the long rant but there R few Cab owners & I wanted to give U as much real world ownership experiences as possible. Hope it helps, but either way U go U can’t loose, a 1st world problem for sure. Good luck, keep us posted & feel free to PM if U want more info.

[HipHop615]

Personally, I'd get the BMW if you are comparing an E93 M3 vert vs an B8.5 S5 vert. Why? Well, the V8 engine sounds alone are worth it. But keep in mind that the V8 in the M3 will almost certainly need new rod bearings if they haven't already been replaced on the car you choose.

Yeah a part of me feels like it is somewhat an unfair comparison if you're looking at overall performance. Luckily though I feel like most vert owners use them as weekend cars and even 6-7 year old cars sometimes dont have very much mileage on them. But still maybe some what hard to find a used M3 that hasnt taken beating.

Having owned 3 Cab’s from the Audi brand over the last several years I can give U my very biased POV. I’m all ~ the AWD & functionality of the Audi’s over the BMW as a DD, d/t where I live & inclement weather vs. where U live, weather is likely not that much of an issue for U.

IF U haven’t driven either yet, I would strongly advise doing so & drive BOTH. To much $ to spend on assumptions & opinions of others. My suspicions R that U will find the M handles/maneuvers better, more initial “snap” of acceleration from the Audi, better interior & creature comforts as well. Better “note” from the M. If U R planning on adding/modifying there is probably more available for the Audi vs. M class, but any “mods” will likely negate any remaining factory warranty on either car, if any remains. No “mods” will also proably favor the Audi as U may be able to find a reasonably priced CPO given your stated preference for cars & model years. If U have spent considerable $ on the Audi & U DON’T plan on modifying, a CPO is difficult to beat, all 3 of mine were/are.
My 2007 S4 Cab, nothing other than routine maintenance. 2010 S5 Cab: Mechatronics went out 2 months after I bought it. 1st thing the dealership did was ask ~a tune or a mod & I confidently said NO. ~ $4000.00 later I had a brand new mechatronic unit & I only paid the $80.00(?) deductible. Next was a thermostat, then a 2nd thermostat, then a H2O pump & finally a wrench left inside my hood on top of the drivers side front fender well when I got home & looked under the hood & had some light. The CPO on the 2010 Cab certainly paid for itself. IIRC over $6000.00 in total repairs, fluids, towing, excluding a loaner each time & ~ 7 weeks total w/o my car. The thermostats x 2 & H2O pump & then the wrench, led to my current RS5 Cab, after many phone calls to AOA & the dealership. RS5: Fuel Actuator door & a transmission coolant line rattling off of a heat shield, that’s it. With that said, I am a complete Audi fan boy & a total Cabriolet fanatic, NOTHING beats top down driving!
Sorry for the long rant but there R few Cab owners & I wanted to give U as much real world ownership experiences as possible. Hope it helps, but either way U go U can’t loose, a 1st world problem for sure. Good luck, keep us posted & feel free to PM if U want more info.

I appreciate the long rant as I love the insight biased or not. Yeah I think I take my SoCal weather for granted but it is all I know. Our winter is like your summer Im sure. I am sure performance (especially stock wise) I will love the M3 comparing initial drives and It has been my dream car for awhile but still somewhat leaning towards the Audi for my initial reasons. Also having the M3 as a DD I am not sure about. One thing to add though is I do plan on modding some what, basic bolt ons and tune, would love to be closer to the 450 hp mark which seems attainable with APR Pulley, Tune and Ultracharger. I am sure you love the switch from teh S5 to the RS5? If I could afford the RS5 I would get it in a heartbeat; such a classy and powerful car.

[delz05]

I have been driving a 2013 S5 cab since the beginning of June... after driving a 2005 Shelby CS8 convertible for the past 12 years...

The Audi is an amazing machine... especially with the Untronics Stage 2+ tune. A refined, aggressive fun car that handles like nothing I have ever owned. Shelby had full Motorsport suspension, supercharged, 405rwhp, 450tq, 12.35 1/4mile @ 109mph on street Coopers... and the Audi seems to be quicker, more stable in turns, most comfortable on long rides and has a much easier to use power top. Also, nearly no road noise at speed, with the roof up... in the mustang, full race exhaust got tiring on the ears.

[HipHop615]

I have been driving a 2013 S5 cab since the beginning of June... after driving a 2005 Shelby CS8 convertible for the past 12 years...

The Audi is an amazing machine... especially with the Untronics Stage 2+ tune. A refined, aggressive fun car that handles like nothing I have ever owned. Shelby had full Motorsport suspension, supercharged, 405rwhp, 450tq, 12.35 1/4mile @ 109mph on street Coopers... and the Audi seems to be quicker, more stable in turns, most comfortable on long rides and has a much easier to use power top. Also, nearly no road noise at speed, with the roof up... in the mustang, full race exhaust got tiring on the ears.

From small picture, you're cab looks nice! Have you done any suspension mods? I feel like it probably is a much more comfortable ride for DD purposes compared to the Shelby considering it had sport aftermarket suspension as well. Thanks for the input!

[ICU2]

Glad to C some of the recent S5 Cab owners chiming in, we R a unique breed. If U want additional info from previous S5 Cab owners who HEAVILY modified their car's, shoot a PM to @Gonzoe11. He's since sold/traded (RS5 & then S7) his S5 Cab, but I bet he'd provide some valuable feedback regarding mods. The 2nd owner I'm sure has also moved on from his HEAVILY modified S5 Cab, @surferboy. (Porsche) I drove around w/him & some other Audi enthusiasts & he was neck & neck w/a M5 V10, pull after pull. It was a fun day & an eye opening, 1st hand experience ~ what a tuned S5 was/is capable of. This was over 3 years ago so I don't know if he'll even respond but worth a shot if U R so inclined.

[delz05]

From small picture, you're cab looks nice! Have you done any suspension mods? I feel like it probably is a much more comfortable ride for DD purposes compared to the Shelby considering it had sport aftermarket suspension as well. Thanks for the input!

No suspension mods yet, but did do the 034 tranny mount to eliminate the slack and slight vibration that comes with hard acceleration (not sure if I am describing that correctly, but tranny would flex as if the trans mount was cracked/broken). Plan on a sway bar upgrade in the Spring, but that will be it. Doing the down pipes (http://www.performancebyie.com/audi/...xhaust-systems) tonight but will keep stock cans, and plan on doing the TCU tune from Unitronics once they release their dual pulley and their new tune which should put me near 500hp.

[LINDW4LL]

The E93 M3 is the more exciting, better handling, and more rewarding car to drive. However, while quick (and faster than the stock S5), it is not a straight line rocket nor is it super tunable without going forced induction. The 3.0T with stage 2 - dual pulley, especially- is pretty lethal and will no doubt be much quicker...

Personally, if driving experience is of primary importance, than the M is a far more special car and is what I would go with considering that inclement weather is not much of a concern in SoCal.

[Sazexa]

A BMW, especially an M-series, is not going to be cheap to maintain. I'd argue it'll cost more than your V8 S5.

That being said, if you're dead-set on getting a cab/convertible, I don't think I could live without a V8 grumble after getting used to my 8-cylinder. V6's can sound mean, and unique... But I don't think they ever have that body trembling, ear-to-ear grin inducing, goosebump forcing feel of a V8.

Then again, my S5 is (nearly) straight piped, so, if you're is stock or just has a quieter after market exhaust, this may not be a big deal for you.

[Beast]

M3.

[ICU2]

M3.

Sacrilege!! How dare you, voting for the other side. Have you been consuming adult beverages?? If U weren't over 775 miles from me, I'd take a drive up to Toronto & take U for a ride/let you drive in my RS5 Cab just to change your mind.

[HipHop615]

No suspension mods yet, but did do the 034 tranny mount to eliminate the slack and slight vibration that comes with hard acceleration (not sure if I am describing that correctly, but tranny would flex as if the trans mount was cracked/broken). Plan on a sway bar upgrade in the Spring, but that will be it. Doing the down pipes (http://www.performancebyie.com/audi/...xhaust-systems) tonight but will keep stock cans, and plan on doing the TCU tune from Unitronics once they release their dual pulley and their new tune which should put me near 500hp.

You'll have to keep me posted when you do the pulley upgrade; I have been an APT type of guy since having their tune currently and I know they support the 3.0T motor a ton but I like to see other builds.

The E93 M3 is the more exciting, better handling, and more rewarding car to drive. However, while quick (and faster than the stock S5), it is not a straight line rocket nor is it super tunable without going forced induction. The 3.0T with stage 2 - dual pulley, especially- is pretty lethal and will no doubt be much quicker...

Personally, if driving experience is of primary importance, than the M is a far more special car and is what I would go with considering that inclement weather is not much of a concern in SoCal.

I feel like I may come into the same problem as I currently have, I basically added the Tune, Intake, & Exhaust and was pretty much tapped out without going crazy and going with a $12k forced induction kit. But I do agree there is something special about owning an M Series BMW, I would think at least.

A BMW, especially an M-series, is not going to be cheap to maintain. I'd argue it'll cost more than your V8 S5.

That being said, if you're dead-set on getting a cab/convertible, I don't think I could live without a V8 grumble after getting used to my 8-cylinder. V6's can sound mean, and unique... But I don't think they ever have that body trembling, ear-to-ear grin inducing, goosebump forcing feel of a V8.

Then again, my S5 is (nearly) straight piped, so, if you're is stock or just has a quieter after market exhaust, this may not be a big deal for you.

It's funny you say that because my favorite thing about my car is the tone/roar of the AWE Track exhaust . I get stupid number of compliments and I love it every time I step on it. But also not sure if the M3 has the same carbon build up issue as the B8 S5. I do plan on getting a warranty on which ever car but I know maintenance is maintenance so that will be pricey regardless I assume.

M3.

Trust me I am torn; I do think performance & look stock to stock M3 blows it away. For me I sway towards that but also have to think of things like it being a DD, maintenance, gas mileage, etc. (Lame I know)

Sacrilege!! How dare you, voting for the other side. Have you been consuming adult beverages?? If U weren't over 775 miles from me, I'd take a drive up to Toronto & take U for a ride/let you drive in my RS5 Cab just to change your mind.

I am sure if I was comparing RS% to M3, the RS5 would be the easy choice haha

[Ape Factory]

A while back I was going to purchase an E93 M3 as well. After a ton of research, months of it, talking to owners, mechanics, indy shops and reading any and every post across multiple forums, I came to my senses and walked away from purchasing one. Too many potential issues that outweigh the pleasure of driving one. A full warranty is an absolute necessity with that car unless you have deep pockets. It didn't help that I lemon lawed 335i a few months prior after a very short period of ownership.

Given the fact you have a host of aftermarket parts, plus a good Audi knowledge base already, I'd honestly stick with Audi. I personally think the interior is far, far nicer than the BMW. The engine, transmission and chassis are very good on the M3 (when working correctly!) and it is more involving than even the RS5. Stock, the M3's going to be faster than a stock S5 in the right hands but the Audi will be faster most of the time and in any weather with the average driver. If you mod the S5, no contest, it'll be faster in a straight line for less cash outlay.

I don't think the M3's are aging well either, the Audi 5 series is faring far better in that department, IMO.

Top down, the M3 sounds fantastic (but not as good as an RS5). The E93 is 400 pounds heavier than the coupe so it's in RS5 Coupe territory weight-wise. And the tech isn't all that in the BMW.

If I had to have the M3, it'd be a low-mileage 6-speed if you can find one. Comes without DTC worries. And make sure it has some sort of powertrain warranty.

[shtaka]

Do 2010 to 2012 M3's have the hardtop convertible? If so, that's another consideration. One of the reasons I bought my S5 cab was that it had a usable trunk even with the top down.

[Ape Factory]

They do have a hardtop and there are concerns with the M3's tops as well. They need a good amount of care and lubrication in the proper points and they're a complicated piece of kit. Just google M3 hardtop issue. The trunk space is pretty well decimated with the top down too.

The transmission casing design is also pretty poor. It basically has two large plates on either side with a gasket all the way around. Well, they leak. Often. And it's a transmission out repair.

Plus most of the BMW forums are owned by one group of individuals who are essentially pirates. They're real d*cks and keep their WHOIS identity hidden and are unresponsive to issues on the various boards. I know of at least one media organization that went after them for copyright infringement (dozens and dozens of violations). I'm sure they have some fine members but as for the forum owners themselves? Not so much.

[Gonzoe11]

Glad to C some of the recent S5 Cab owners chiming in, we R a unique breed. If U want additional info from previous S5 Cab owners who HEAVILY modified their car's, shoot a PM to @Gonzoe11. He's since sold/traded (RS5 & then S7) his S5 Cab, but I bet he'd provide some valuable feedback regarding mods. The 2nd owner I'm sure has also moved on from his HEAVILY modified S5 Cab, @surferboy. (Porsche) I drove around w/him & some other Audi enthusiasts & he was neck & neck w/a M5 V10, pull after pull. It was a fun day & an eye opening, 1st hand experience ~ what a tuned S5 was/is capable of. This was over 3 years ago so I don't know if he'll even respond but worth a shot if U R so inclined.

You rang... Believe it or not, I miss my S5 cab everyday. The Audi has so many mod options making it a great platform. I'm not sure how the M3 cab drives with the hard top but S5 did have some cowl shake. I spent some time dialing that out. The Bilstein PSS10 adjustable coilovers were a great mate to this platform and combined with the Eurocode USS kit including the Alu Kruez - the cab became rock solid and sat at the perfect ride height (adjustable of course with the PSS10). Eurocode will tell you the AK is not compatible with the cab but it actually is. Me and @Surferboy did it and my opinion took the steering feel into 911 territory ( a stretch but a notable improvement). There is a lot more I did, Wheels, Stage 1 and 2 tune + pulley, AWE exhaust and CAI. Carbon fiber lip and diffuser. It was definitely unique. No other S5 cab around like mine. Go for the S5! The more I type, the more I'd like to work on anther S5/RS5 cab project. @ICU22 is the cab champion. lots of envy here....

[HipHop615]

A while back I was going to purchase an E93 M3 as well. After a ton of research, months of it, talking to owners, mechanics, indy shops and reading any and every post across multiple forums, I came to my senses and walked away from purchasing one. Too many potential issues that outweigh the pleasure of driving one. A full warranty is an absolute necessity with that car unless you have deep pockets. It didn't help that I lemon lawed 335i a few months prior after a very short period of ownership.

Given the fact you have a host of aftermarket parts, plus a good Audi knowledge base already, I'd honestly stick with Audi. I personally think the interior is far, far nicer than the BMW. The engine, transmission and chassis are very good on the M3 (when working correctly!) and it is more involving than even the RS5. Stock, the M3's going to be faster than a stock S5 in the right hands but the Audi will be faster most of the time and in any weather with the average driver. If you mod the S5, no contest, it'll be faster in a straight line for less cash outlay.

I don't think the M3's are aging well either, the Audi 5 series is faring far better in that department, IMO.

Top down, the M3 sounds fantastic (but not as good as an RS5). The E93 is 400 pounds heavier than the coupe so it's in RS5 Coupe territory weight-wise. And the tech isn't all that in the BMW.

If I had to have the M3, it'd be a low-mileage 6-speed if you can find one. Comes without DTC worries. And make sure it has some sort of powertrain warranty.

Everything you said is very true, I talked to a few BMW owners and they said the M3 all the way but I also think they are fan boys just like some of us are here with the Audis. Also not going to lie seeing the gorgeous RS5 in your pic I had to click on your name and then i red your Red Mist story, I instantly went on Auto Trader trying to convince myself I can afford an RS5.... I still cannot; damn beautiful car.....that red....

Do 2010 to 2012 M3's have the hardtop convertible? If so, that's another consideration. One of the reasons I bought my S5 cab was that it had a usable trunk even with the top down.

Yes it does; I like the look of the hardtop convertible but yes you're right I always forget that the hardtops take up the gist of the trunk when down.

[HipHop615]

You rang... Believe it or not, I miss my S5 cab everyday. The Audi has so many mod options making it a great platform. I'm not sure how the M3 cab drives with the hard top but S5 did have some cowl shake. I spent some time dialing that out. The Bilstein PSS10 adjustable coilovers were a great mate to this platform and combined with the Eurocode USS kit including the Alu Kruez - the cab became rock solid and sat at the perfect ride height (adjustable of course with the PSS10). Eurocode will tell you the AK is not compatible with the cab but it actually is. Me and @Surferboy did it and my opinion took the steering feel into 911 territory ( a stretch but a notable improvement). There is a lot more I did, Wheels, Stage 1 and 2 tune + pulley, AWE exhaust and CAI. Carbon fiber lip and diffuser. It was definitely unique. No other S5 cab around like mine. Go for the S5! The more I type, the more I'd like to work on anther S5/RS5 cab project. @ICU22 is the cab champion. lots of envy here....

Damn you basically did all the mods that I want to do, any link with pics of your car? I have the KW V3s sitting in the garage the PSS10s were the only other option of suspension I was looking at. I heard there was an Alu Kruez that was made specifically just for the cab but maybe I am wrong. I was looking to do APR Stage 2, UltraCharger, Enlaes CF Rear and Front, AWE Track, Volk TE37 Ultras or my HRE FF01s....

[ICU2]

Damn you basically did all the mods that I want to do, any link with pics of your car? I have the KW V3s sitting in the garage the PSS10s were the only other option of suspension I was looking at. I heard there was an Alu Kruez that was made specifically just for the cab but maybe I am wrong. I was looking to do APR Stage 2, UltraCharger, Enlaes CF Rear and Front, AWE Track, Volk TE37 Ultras or my HRE FF01s....

HAHA!! Just a couple of pics & I think I could make a strong argument for the needle swinging heavily in the Audi direction. Hopefully, @Gonzoe11 can go back through his archive(s) of pics & seal the deal. IIRC, regarding the AK,(Alu Kreuz) getting it to fit on a Cabriolet is simply a matter of some slightly longer bolts (?) but check w/@Gonzoe11 TBS.

[Gonzoe11]

Damn you basically did all the mods that I want to do, any link with pics of your car? I have the KW V3s sitting in the garage the PSS10s were the only other option of suspension I was looking at. I heard there was an Alu Kruez that was made specifically just for the cab but maybe I am wrong. I was looking to do APR Stage 2, UltraCharger, Enlaes CF Rear and Front, AWE Track, Volk TE37 Ultras or my HRE FF01s....

HAHA!! Just a couple of pics & I think I could make a strong argument for the needle swinging heavily in the Audi direction. Hopefully, @Gonzoe11 can go back through his archive(s) of pics & seal the deal. IIRC, regarding the AK,(Alu Kreuz) getting it to fit on a Cabriolet is simply a matter of some slightly longer bolts (?) but check w/@Gonzoe11 TBS.

I'll find some pictures tonight and post. HipHop.. Your list is spot on. The KW's are probably on par or even better than the PSS10. I'm not sure is their is a cab version of the AK but ICU2 is correct. Longer bolts and sandwich the AK in between the existing cross brace is the trick. I also upgraded to the ECS RS BBK. I'm currently running Volks G25 on my S7 so I'm partial to these right now. I think they are better looking, finish and quality than the FF01. On the cab I had a set of Morr VS11 made in 20"x 10" et 27 in a dark tint brushed matte finish. I used the Deval CF bits but hear the Enlaes is great too. As far as exhaust, I used the AWE touring, which was the only one available at that time. Sound was incredible! Good luck and I'll try and find some pics later.

[HipHop615]

I'll find some pictures tonight and post. HipHop.. Your list is spot on. The KW's are probably on par or even better than the PSS10. I'm not sure is their is a cab version of the AK but ICU2 is correct. Longer bolts and sandwich the AK in between the existing cross brace is the trick. I also upgraded to the ECS RS BBK. I'm currently running Volks G25 on my S7 so I'm partial to these right now. I think they are better looking, finish and quality than the FF01. On the cab I had a set of Morr VS11 made in 20"x 10" et 27 in a dark tint brushed matte finish. I used the Deval CF bits but hear the Enlaes is great too. As far as exhaust, I used the AWE touring, which was the only one available at that time. Sound was incredible! Good luck and I'll try and find some pics later.

How is that brake kit? That is one thing I was always jealous of on the RS, the massive stock brakes. Yeah I have the FF01s but they are not my favorites. Are those BLK Wheels in your avatar? If so those specific ones have always been one of my favs as well. I had a G35 and 350z Roadster previously and had two different Volk TE37 sets on them; always been my favorite wheel. I love the TE37 Ultras that they make; just a pretty penny. I have Deval CF Rear on my B8 currently, didnt realize they make parts for the B8.5 as well. Thanks for all the info!

[HipHop615]

HAHA!! Just a couple of pics & I think I could make a strong argument for the needle swinging heavily in the Audi direction. Hopefully, @Gonzoe11 can go back through his archive(s) of pics & seal the deal. IIRC, regarding the AK,(Alu Kreuz) getting it to fit on a Cabriolet is simply a matter of some slightly longer bolts (?) but check w/@Gonzoe11 TBS.

And I expect nothing less from die hard Audi enthusiasts haha I do like the fact that you seldom see nicely modified Cabs so there is also that as well

[Gonzoe11]

Damn you basically did all the mods that I want to do, any link with pics of your car? I have the KW V3s sitting in the garage the PSS10s were the only other option of suspension I was looking at. I heard there was an Alu Kruez that was made specifically just for the cab but maybe I am wrong. I was looking to do APR Stage 2, UltraCharger, Enlaes CF Rear and Front, AWE Track, Volk TE37 Ultras or my HRE FF01s....

HAHA!! Just a couple of pics & I think I could make a strong argument for the needle swinging heavily in the Audi direction. Hopefully, @Gonzoe11 can go back through his archive(s) of pics & seal the deal. IIRC, regarding the AK,(Alu Kreuz) getting it to fit on a Cabriolet is simply a matter of some slightly longer bolts (?) but check w/@Gonzoe11 TBS.

How is that brake kit? That is one thing I was always jealous of on the RS, the massive stock brakes. Yeah I have the FF01s but they are not my favorites. Are those BLK Wheels in your avatar? If so those specific ones have always been one of my favs as well. I had a G35 and 350z Roadster previously and had two different Volk TE37 sets on them; always been my favorite wheel. I love the TE37 Ultras that they make; just a pretty penny. I have Deval CF Rear on my B8 currently, didnt realize they make parts for the B8.5 as well. Thanks for all the info!

I actually had a B8 Cab. So not sure about the Deval parts. The brake kit was good but could probably use better pads than the supplied ones. Yes, my Avatar pic is my BLK set, now gone but showing well on the Shonesb RS5. Love those wheels. Wish they would have fit on the S7.

[HipHop615]

I actually had a B8 Cab. So not sure about the Deval parts. The brake kit was good but could probably use better pads than the supplied ones. Yes, my Avatar pic is my BLK set, now gone but showing well on the Shonesb RS5. Love those wheels. Wish they would have fit on the S7.

Ahhh that makes sense, also I went on AWE site and I only see Touring as well. I think that is one thing I will miss, the rumble of the V8 combined with AWE Track exhaust. Yeah maybe it was one your posts I remember being back in the day that people were having issues with back orders or something with BLK but damn they be some gorgeous wheels.

[doug97gxe]

go with the m3... RWD is amazing as you know coming from the Z .. its much more fun to drive .. i had 350z before my B8.5 S5 .. the S5 would been perfect Supercharged and RWD

[Gonzoe11]

Damn you basically did all the mods that I want to do, any link with pics of your car? I have the KW V3s sitting in the garage the PSS10s were the only other option of suspension I was looking at. I heard there was an Alu Kruez that was made specifically just for the cab but maybe I am wrong. I was looking to do APR Stage 2, UltraCharger, Enlaes CF Rear and Front, AWE Track, Volk TE37 Ultras or my HRE FF01s....

HAHA!! Just a couple of pics & I think I could make a strong argument for the needle swinging heavily in the Audi direction. Hopefully, @Gonzoe11 can go back through his archive(s) of pics & seal the deal. IIRC, regarding the AK,(Alu Kreuz) getting it to fit on a Cabriolet is simply a matter of some slightly longer bolts (?) but check w/@Gonzoe11 TBS.

Ahhh that makes sense, also I went on AWE site and I only see Touring as well. I think that is one thing I will miss, the rumble of the V8 combined with AWE Track exhaust. Yeah maybe it was one your posts I remember being back in the day that people were having issues with back orders or something with BLK but damn they be some gorgeous wheels.

Definitely not a V8 rumble but with the stage 2, CAI and exhaust, the sound is deep and exotic. MY BLK set was spot on and delivery was on time. There were some guys having trouble when BLK was having production issues. Heard that is resolved now.
M3 is a great car, but dime a dozen where I live. I'm sure you can mod the M3 cab but I think the S5 is better looking.

[ICU2]

but damn they be some gorgeous wheels.

And they probably only look that good 'cause they're on an Audi!! A wonderful synergistic relationship.

[MidnightNarwhal]

I have owned my 2011 Audi B8 S5 for about 2 years or so. It has been my first euro car I have owned; so far I love it but maintenance is no joke as you all know. I miss having a convertible since my 350z Roadster. Also I didn't buy a warranty on this card and obviously regret that as I have dumped thousands in maintenance.

I am looking to Sell / Trade In for a newer (Prob 2013/2014) Audi S5 Cabriolet or my original attainable dream car e93 BMW M3 Convertible (Prob 2010-2012). Being on an Audi forum prob most people would think the S5 as the better choice? Thoughts? Here are my few Pros on each.

Audi S5 Cab:
Already know Audis in general a bit as I have owned one for a few years. Know Part brands, a few shops, other owners, etc
Already own VAG-COM, and other parts that are just sitting in garage waiting to be installed (KW V3 Coil-Overs, SPC Camber Arms, HRE FF01 Wheels)
Better Gas Mileage than V8 M3
Newer by a few years; perhaps better tech inside?
Supercharged and easily upgrade power with Tune & Pulley Upgrade
I would assume less maintenance over m3 motor but maybe I am wrong
AWD vs RWD

BMW M3:
I think overall better looking car, having hardtop over soft top
400+ HP on N/A Car
Sound / Power of V8
Overall better Suspension/Handling, Brakes.
Something to be said about owning an M class BMW (I still have never driven owned one)
Seems to have plethora of options for customizing (Exterior & Performance Wise)

I don't have personal experience but I also wanted an E92 M3 before but with it's all it's rod bearing issues and now the main bearing issues posted on the forums it drove me away. Looked at older E46 M3s and they also had subframe issues and rod bearing issues so I'm settling on the V6T S5 now.

[Gonzoe11]

Found a few pics of the cab

[ICU2]

Thx so much Gonzoe11, if those pics don’t seal the deal, nothing will. Very kind of U to be of such assistance. If I lived closer, I’d swing by every now & then just to let U get the “Cab” fix it sounds like U need. Top down driving never gets old. Hope all is well w/the S7 & the family, enjoy the holidays.

[Gonzoe11]

Thx so much Gonzoe11, if those pics seal the deal, nothing will. Very kind of U to be of such assistance. If I lived closer, I’d swing by every now & then just to let U get the “Cab” fix it sounds like U need. Top down driving never gets old. Hope all is well w/the S7 & the family, enjoy the holidays.

Thank you sir.. I’m sure top down in the RS5 takes it to a whole other level. Happy holidays to you and your family too.


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[HipHop615]

go with the m3... RWD is amazing as you know coming from the Z .. its much more fun to drive .. i had 350z before my B8.5 S5 .. the S5 would been perfect Supercharged and RWD

This is true RWD is fun, But I still think AWD is preferred at least for me.

Definitely not a V8 rumble but with the stage 2, CAI and exhaust, the sound is deep and exotic. MY BLK set was spot on and delivery was on time. There were some guys having trouble when BLK was having production issues. Heard that is resolved now.
M3 is a great car, but dime a dozen where I live. I'm sure you can mod the M3 cab but I think the S5 is better looking.

Yeah I want to her one in person, I havent really heard a rev of a modded 3.0T S5 so curious how they sound, I suppose I can YouTube it but still not the same as in person. And yeah M3 is way more popular and around the S5 cab.

And they probably only look that good 'cause they're on an Audi!! A wonderful synergistic relationship.

HAHAHA This also may be true!

I don't have personal experience but I also wanted an E92 M3 before but with it's all it's rod bearing issues and now the main bearing issues posted on the forums it drove me away. Looked at older E46 M3s and they also had subframe issues and rod bearing issues so I'm settling on the V6T S5 now.

Yeah I ahve also heard about the rod bearing issues, I would hope/assume an y extended warranty would cover that? But still a hassle regardless and doesn't sound remotely fun

Found a few pics of the cab

Damn that clean as hell, I dig it alot! Tastefully done! Thanks for sharing!

[Gonzoe11]

Anytime. Good luck with the hunt.


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