2013 BMW 650i xDrive GC vs 2013 Audi S7

[itzjoker]

Been shopping around for a 650XI but recently came across some Audi S7 and they are similarly priced. Was wondering if anybody has some input on reliability/cost of maintenance for both cars with higher mileage (80k+)

Definitely need the AWD for winters.
S7 has more power and higher potential in regards to upgrading which is extremely attractive to me.
S7 seems to have more rear passenger space and trunk space.

I'm hesitant with buying either cars with high mileage because of the turbos/reliability. I've done some research on the S7 and turbos are known to go out, but can be saved/prolonged with some servicing to the screens (~$2,000) before failure. Not sure on reliability of the N63TU motor.

I was set on a 650XI but now I'm leaning towards an S7

My last car was a B6 S4, bought at 100k miles with the timing chain serviced and owned it for 5 years with little problems so my experience with Audi has treated me well. I've test driven an S6 and it was a blast to drive. The interior of my '16 X6 feels much more solid and higher quality, but that could be that it's much newer. I'm torn.

My biggest factor for choosing one over the other would be cost of ownership/reliability. I only plan on having either car for 2 years max and would not like to burn a hole in my pocket.

[Opie55]

I like Audis, but in my view the 650 is a dramatically better looking car. The Audi looks like - well, an Audi. As long as the 650 has a TU engine, it should be fine. Any high-tech, high-mileage car is a roll of the dice, so generalities about reliability don't really mean much. I personally would not base any purchase decision on which one I thought might save me a few bucks. Life is too short. Especially if I was only going to keep it 2 years. I would only ask which one I would get if reliability was exactly the same.

[iamvanja]

S7 is more practical, but the 6 is sexier. And the interior in the Audi personally looks very dated.

[itzjoker]

I agree BMW interior looks much more updated. The 650GC and S7 in terms of looks are even to me. If it were an M6 GC then no questions asked. Mainly why I'm only looking to own for 2 years max is to eventually purchase the right M6 GC.

Another factor to me that may sound silly is prestige. To me an S7 is on a higher scale than the 650.

I think I may be leaning towards an S7.

[brad850csi]

If you find a 650i with the full leather dash you will love it compared to the all plastic only S7. The Audi infotainment system is also quite dated.

[Bigjule1111]

S7 on a higher scale than the 650 ? I would think it's the opposite or atleast close

[itzjoker]

Actually I never really compared the specs of the two. I didn't realize they were in the same class. I just always assumed Audi S7 was higher than the 650i because it has the "S" whereas the 650 isn't called M650i.

Anyways, you guys are right life is too short. Gonna side with the S7 until I upgrade to the M6 hehe

[MichaelInChicago]

I was also deciding between the 650xi GC and the S7, both 2015's, before purchasing the 650.

The 650 is a very special car, and you feel it when you sit inside it, drive it, or simply just look at it. The S7 is a very capable car, but it just feels like any other Audi sedan, but with a nicer outer design.

[Bigjule1111]

When I picked up my f06 my other option was a cls ..but we already have a Mercedes at the house so decided with the beamer ..Audi was never a option ..didn't even entertain the brand

[Qsilver7]

Just an FYI (in case it is unknown to some of the "new-to-the-fold" or "old faithful" that didn't get a copy of the syllabus)...

• Beemer/Beamer = BMW motorcylces (2 or 3 wheels)
• Bimmer = BMW cars/sedans/SAVs/SACs/etc. (4 wheels)

[itzjoker]

Originally Posted by MichaelInChicago

I was also deciding between the 650xi GC and the S7, both 2015's, before purchasing the 650.

The 650 is a very special car, and you feel it when you sit inside it, drive it, or simply just look at it. The S7 is a very capable car, but it just feels like any other Audi sedan, but with a nicer outer design.

I have a feeling I will feel the same way as well. My S4 wasn't anything special and the S6 I test drove was fun and nice but didn't feel as nice as the X6. End goal is M6 so why not have a little fun with the S7 till then.

[MichaelInChicago]

The truth is this:

The 6 Series Gran Coupe is among the most beautiful sedans ever designed. Add to that its amazing driving dynamics, beautiful interior and solidity, it ranks way up there among the greatest sedans ever made.