I just dropped my car off for service and picked up a loaner. My car is a very late 2015 70D picked up in December. It got some rock chips on the hood and one on the windshield during transport, so the SC said they wanted to replace the whole front end. I just took it in to have the parts replaced and I've already driven 8,000 miles. So, I have a fair bit of experience with the 70D. I test drove several cars in mid to late 2014, but I never got any significant seat time prior to picking up my car. After two days of driving the loaner, which is a 22,XXX VIN 85, I have to say, I am struck by how different the cars are. I really debated whether to get a CPO P85 or a new 70D. In the end I went with the new car because of the awd option and the ability to add autopilot (which I have not done yet). They are both great cars. These are my thoughts on the differences:
Overall, I miss my car and will be happy to get it back, but the classic 85 is quite a nice car as well. It's very fast and the rwd is entertaining.
- The interior quality is much better on the new cars. Everything just feels nicer and more upscale. The new stalks are an improvement too, I think (or maybe I am just used to them).
- The new car handles better and has much improved steering feel. This is subjective, but the 85 front end feels a bit loose in comparison.
- The upgraded sound system (in the loaner) seems to be a good improvement over the base system in my car (not generational, just an observation).
- Even though the 70D is listed as a tiny bit quicker, the 85 feels a good bit faster to me. I can only imagine what the P85 would do!
- Personally, I don't think the NG seats are any better than the original seats. I need a lumbar cushion either way because the lumbar is too high for me even at the lowest setting.
- AWD makes the car feel much more stable, but hammering the throttle in the rear wheel drive car is really fun in a corner.
Overall, I miss my car and will be happy to get it back, but the classic 85 is quite a nice car as well. It's very fast and the rwd is entertaining.