Edmunds test 2008 BMW M3 Coupe vs. 2008 Audi S5 Coupe:

[gbb357]

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/Comparos/articleId=125265#2

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/8933/08comparom3vss5group250qc3.jpg

[Epacy]

One particular thing that stood out to me was the line:

On the other hand, the M3's advanced aero package, evident from one look at those side mirrors (check out the flying buttresses), proved eerily absent of wind noise.

In the earlier section they noted the Audi mirros caused noise and fluctuated depending on vehicle speed and crosswinds.

While some might question the looks of the mirrors, personally I am ok with them, this epitomizes the concept of "form over function". Don't forget the 3lbs of downforce as well.

[hks786]

Regarding look of the mirrors, they look fine from side/rear profile. Any other profile like the pic above it just looks crap, even in real life.

[JEllis]

Regarding look of the mirrors, they look fine from side/rear profile. Any other profile like the pic above it just looks crap, even in real life.

I like them...which proves yet again looks are subjective

Jason

[MTrizzy]

nice article...thnx for the post

[seb]

The S5 has gotten so much praise in magazines lately that I've been having second thoughts, even if for a minute, as I patiently wait for my M3. (having dealers around with them doesn't help either, specially with a much cheaper fully loaded price). This article really does put my doubts to rest, as they praise the S5 but when compared to the M, it really doesn't seem to shine quite as much. I wonder what we'll think of the S5 styling when we see plenty of A5's around, or when the new 2009 A4 hits the street with the same front and back of the A5/S5. The M3 might have seemed more uneventful on introduction as we've gotten accustomed to the e92 body (as is what happens with every M3 introduction), and its more about the subtleties. Lets not forget that the differences between the S5 and the A5 are far less than what we are getting between the M3 and the base e92.

great article, thanks!!

[chicagobimmerboy]

I dont have any problem with the Audi accept that its a little big and hefty, but give it a red leather interior and I am sold!

[hks786]

I like them...which proves yet again looks are subjective

Jason

Exactly!