Awe common, BMW closer to Sony! Never.

Ok. I own an 861 version 3 AND a BMW 540i and I rate the analogy between the two as very good.

The 861 will handle any audio situation with aplomb.

The 540i has brilliant roadholding, as much power for overtaking safely as one could ever want, built in active and passive safety features, is quiet and surefooted. About the only crit I could aim at it is the sound system - it is above average but not outstanding (listen to the system in the latest Lexus 400 to know what I mean).

No, Sony components are the equivalent of the Toyota range (including Lexus). There are base models and more sophisticated ones but none truly satisfy the petrol head with auto appreciation. In similar vein it takes the Meridian 861 to satisfy the discriminating music lover. No longer sure the 800 is to be rated similarly - see my other post.