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I want an E39

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Forum Name: Irish Forum
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URL: http://www.bavarian-board.co.uk/forum_posts.asp?TID=46693
Printed Date: 29-March-2024 at 13:20


Topic: I want an E39
Posted By: kbannon
Subject: I want an E39
Date Posted: 11-May-2010 at 23:06

I was left at the side of the M50 for the second time in two weeks today. The last time, one of my drive belts went and today http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=DD32&mospid=47539&btnr=11_1555&hg=11&fg=35 - #14 here decided to start leaking causign the temp gauge to head to the right.

There are a few things wrong with my car which all in all would cost about two grand (which for 150k of abuse isn't bad)
* power steering rack
* left rear door lock stuck
* worn bushing (I think) on passenger side
* will need four new tyres this year

The car has full leather, front sports seats (with the pull out knee bit), dual digital climate, sports steering wheel (the nice one - not the M Sports one ), sunroof (oh yeah, that doesn't lift also (but does go back)) and I also have the lights and the BMW aero kit. Its manual also (which I'd like to stick with).

However, looking at carzone, none of the E39s 523i or 525i seem to have the same spec. Ideally it would have an MTech kit with 17" rims (maybe tuning forks), full (pref. black) leather with the sports seats and digital climate. Why can't I find one? Most of what is on carzone, cbg, etc. is crap.

I've seen the following:
http://www.cbg.ie/Car_Detail.aspx?ID=3714997 - http://www.cbg.ie/Car_Detail.aspx?ID=3714997  (no mention of NCT or tax
http://www.loadzacars.ie/cars/used/search/details/3698612 - http://www.loadzacars.ie/cars/used/search/details/3698612  (cloth seats, basic air con, auto/, godawful phone mount, etc.)

I'm somewhat reluctant to go for the 530i as I'm spending enough on juice as it is without having to buy more (given that it will most likely be spirited driving!) and the extra motor tax (is it €1,293 now) but it may be an option. My phase of getting a tractor is long gone now BTW.

With exams and assignments for college and other courses and exams for work over the next two or three months, I won't have time to traipse over to the UK unfortunately.

Does anyone know of a decent one?  What do you think of the first link above? What would you offer them?



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual



Replies:
Posted By: Fey!
Date Posted: 12-May-2010 at 14:38

What's the budget?

You could get one with regular seats and switch them.  Most of the m-tech seem to have alacantra sport seats.



-------------
"http://www.tempoantiques.com"">


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 12-May-2010 at 18:37

KB, was in a similar place at the start of the year.  In reliability terms mine was running great but small issues were cropping up and meaning downtime (leccy boot release packed up, faulty LCM, etc.).  With family committments up the country at the moment I couldn't really afford the downtime, a day here and another there, etc.

Had been keeping an eye out this side but largely unimpressed with what was on offer.  Did a good bit of looking in the UK, was primarily interested in a 528i or 530i e39 with low miles and good provenance, my usual fodder.  Happened across a '00 523i with 40k miles, fBMWsh and all the right paperwork.  Bonus was although it was an SE, it had the optional sport pack (before Sport was a seperate model) and full leather.  Bought it from a private seller and paid top whack (no issue with that since it was well above avg and vrt on this side was fairly minimal, so on the road cost was fairly low). 

So far, its the bargain of the decade.  6.5k miles later I have a car that is solid as a rock for less cost than the first year of depreciation on the previous 5 when I bought it.

Moral of the story - go a little older than you might want, pay silly money (relatively speaking) for the right car (in terms of condition and provenance) and come away with a bargain.

All 3 of our cars were bought like this, average age 12, current average miles 55k and average cost €5.5k.

As an aside, sold the previous 5 to a friend needing a run about and recently returned from Oz, its now passed 150k and he loves it.  His last car in Oz was an e46 M3.  He says he doesn't feel short changed in any terms other than outright pace.

One observation - v noticable difference in torque between M52 and M52TU 523i.  Thought I might have felt short changed not going for the 528i or 530i, but don't.

A couple of suggestions that might fit the approach above, especially the last one.

http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/SE-Autom/201015197580736/advert?channel=CARS - http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/SE-Autom/201015197 580736/advert?channel=CARS

http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/535-3.5/201013197444051/advert?channel=CARS - http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/535-3.5/2010131974 44051/advert?channel=CARS

http://search.autotrader.co.uk/es-uk/www/cars/BMW+5+SERIES/Ne-2-4-5-6-7-8-27-44-49-53-61-64-67-103-133-146-236,N-21-42-50-59-62-240-4294966943-4294967078/advert.action?R=201018358165943&distance=249&postcode=tw1+4hs&channel=CARS&make=BMW&model=5+SERIES&min_pr=&max_pr=7000&max_mileage=80000&vehicleYearOfManufacture=1999&vehicleRegLetter=T - http://search.autotrader.co.uk/es-uk/www/cars/BMW+5+SERIES/N e-2-4-5-6-7-8-27-44-49-53-61-64-67-103-133-146-236,N-21-42-5 0-59-62-240-4294966943-4294967078/advert.action?R=2010183581 65943&distance=249&postcode=tw1+4hs&channel=CARS &make=BMW&model=5+SERIES&min_pr=&max_pr=7000 &max_mileage=80000&vehicleYearOfManufacture=1999& ; ;vehicleRegLetter=T

http://search.autotrader.co.uk/es-uk/www/cars/BMW+5+SERIES/Ne-2-4-5-6-7-8-27-44-49-53-61-64-67-103-133-146-236,N-21-42-50-59-62-240-4294966943-4294967078/advert.action?R=201018358408889&distance=26&postcode=tw1+4hs&channel=CARS&make=BMW&model=5+SERIES&min_pr=&max_pr=7000&max_mileage=80000&vehicleYearOfManufacture=1999&vehicleRegLetter=S - http://search.autotrader.co.uk/es-uk/www/cars/BMW+5+SERIES/N e-2-4-5-6-7-8-27-44-49-53-61-64-67-103-133-146-236,N-21-42-5 0-59-62-240-4294966943-4294967078/advert.action?R=2010183584 08889&distance=26&postcode=tw1+4hs&channel=CARS& amp; amp;make=BMW&model=5+SERIES&min_pr=&max_pr=7000& amp; amp;max_mileage=80000&vehicleYearOfManufacture=1999& vehicleRegLetter=S

http://search.autotrader.co.uk/es-uk/www/cars/BMW+5+SERIES/Ne-2-4-5-6-7-8-27-44-49-53-61-64-67-103-133-146-236,N-21-42-50-59-62-240-4294966943-4294967078/advert.action?R=201017357767147&distance=170&postcode=tw1+4hs&channel=CARS&make=BMW&model=5+SERIES&min_pr=&max_pr=7000&max_mileage=80000&vehicleYearOfManufacture=2001&vehicleRegLetter=Y - http://search.autotrader.co.uk/es-uk/www/cars/BMW+5+SERIES/N e-2-4-5-6-7-8-27-44-49-53-61-64-67-103-133-146-236,N-21-42-5 0-59-62-240-4294966943-4294967078/advert.action?R=2010173577 67147&distance=170&postcode=tw1+4hs&channel=CARS &make=BMW&model=5+SERIES&min_pr=&max_pr=7000 &max_mileage=80000&vehicleYearOfManufacture=2001& ; ;vehicleRegLetter=Y

As mentioned, consider swapping bits likes seats from your car if you feel strongly but the standard seats are not a second rate choice.



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 12-May-2010 at 18:56

I like the red one in the UK that you linked to. The first one is beside me at work - will call up tomorrow and check it out.

I was thinking of about 5-10k.



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 12-May-2010 at 19:26
Sorry!  Realized that my last post was a bit waffly!

-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: Mike Ryan
Date Posted: 12-May-2010 at 21:36

Dergside Wrote: Moral of the story - go a little older than you might want, pay silly money (relatively speaking) for the right car (in terms of condition and provenance) and come away with a bargain.

How right you are Dergside. It has taken me many many years of motoring (30 years to be exact) to be in similar frame of mind as you. I saw the light about 5 years ago once the brood reached 18 years of age and had to be supported in college. Now I wonder why it took me so long to realise that buying new or very nearly new cars was nothing more than a silly obsession.

The internet has totally reformed the way we can become knowledgeable about a particular make and model of car. The information available to help the likes of me that has the pluck to tackle almost any mechanical or electrical repair, together with the fact that I have free access to diagnostic software (on the QT) makes diy repairs for me a pleasure.

My current project is a 2001 530d touring. I have covered 1000 miles since purchase 5 weeks ago. I have given it a full health check together with a full lubrication service including the engine breather filter which was practically blocked (amazing that, since the car has a full BMW dealer service history to 70,000 miles and has 80,000 miles on the clock). Glad to report that the engine doesent have the dreaded inlet manifold swirl flaps. I am waiting for the tool to replace the rear subframe bushings. The tool that I borrowed in the past to replace the bushings in a 520 E39 will not do the job as the bushings on the touring are larger in diameter.

I am pleased to report that the increase in  mpg from an average of 29mpg for the 520 E39 manual over the last 25,000 miles  to 43.4mpg for the 530d E39 touring manual is welcome. This will more than erode the savage increase in annual road tax over an annual mileage of 10,000 miles.

Any helpful advice in matters of repairs for the above chariot is appreciated.  

          



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Euro Builts are Better. Drive one and you directly support jobs in the Irish car component manufacturing industry.


Posted By: Ben O Brien
Date Posted: 13-May-2010 at 14:07

I too have recently spent a bit of time looking for a sport E39 as a daily driver. Roughly 14 months ago i was doing the same search before i picked up the M5 and it was painful and exhuastive. Not much has changed. What i found was overpriced muck with crazy miles, and anything with a bit of spec was twice the price of a standard Irish spec car and short of the extra spec it was no more deserving of the price tag. Ive looked at everything from a 520i Sport to a 540i Sport and all in between and its getting a little tiring. So much so now im looking at other options. If i were you there'd be no doubt about it id be off to the UK and as Dergside says spend top money - in the long run you will save.

I had a deal done on a 02' 520i Sport around a fortnight ago and i have to say it wasnt half as gutless as i thought it would be, the 2.2 TU engine is plenty powerful for day to day usage. Coupled with the Steptronic box it was actually quite pleasant. If i do happen to stumble across the right car it will be a 530d Sport Manual though.

Also, let me know what you plan on doing with the present steed if and when you do replace it, may be interested in breaking/repairing it.

@ Mike, i am presently looking at buying the bush removal tools so that might have that sorted - will be in touch.

 



-------------
99' 740iL   
99' 728i Sport
98' E39 M5 - Avus Blue, Dec Car!
96' M3 Saloon - Estoril Blue
94' M3 3.0 Convertible
91' E34 M5 - 3.6, Macau Blue

*E36 M3's Breaking*


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 14-May-2010 at 10:25

One suggestion, don't get too hung up on a Sport (KB and/or Ben).  An SE on 16's may have a tad less ultimate grip than a Sport but overall I suspect an e39 on 16's is probably better balanced in real world driving.

Comparing this 523i with sport pack, so, slightly lowered, firmer, 17's, etc. with the previous one on std suspension and 16's is interesting.

Obviously the car on 17's has more outright grip, and is probably therefore marginally quicker point to point, but I find it slightly more inclined to understeer initially so you need to work a little bit more to get it cleanly through corners, either backing off a tad or adding some welly to get the rear to contribute a little bit to steering.  The car on 16's is more neutral.  Much less tendency to initial understeer but still can be steered by the rear a bit.

I initially thought the understeer might have been down hairy rear tyres and front heading to end of life but I've replaced those since, put the new on the rear and moved those to the front, so lots of thread all round.  Still the same response though.

Partially inclined to think, that if I really wanted understeer I would have bought a wrong wheel drive car!

Not complaining, mind you, 7k miles added since the start of Feb and its going to be a good friend for a lot of miles to come I suspect, just like the last one.



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: Ben O Brien
Date Posted: 14-May-2010 at 11:44

Fair point to be made about the SE vs Sport. I mainly want a sport for the all round package more so than the drive, nicer seats, m-tech kit etc. Am currently putting together a 03' E39 530d SE after catastrophic engine failure for the folks so we will see how that performs.

Pretty much every E39 ive owned to date bar the M5 has been an SE and they are not a bad car at all, far from it. I just want a bit of spec if im going to hold onto the car for a while.



-------------
99' 740iL   
99' 728i Sport
98' E39 M5 - Avus Blue, Dec Car!
96' M3 Saloon - Estoril Blue
94' M3 3.0 Convertible
91' E34 M5 - 3.6, Macau Blue

*E36 M3's Breaking*


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 14-May-2010 at 14:14

Originally posted by Ben O Brien Ben O Brien wrote:

I just want a bit of spec if im going to hold onto the car for a while.

Understandable.



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: Andrew Rolland
Date Posted: 14-May-2010 at 15:27

Intersting bit about the handling there Dergside.

My E39 (15" rims) used to understeer when going a bit quick into corners which did suprise me at first.  Both the E60s (17" rims and now 18" rims) I've owned also have been provoked into running wide at the front end with the kerb appearing a bit too quickly at your nearside front wheel on giving a bit of right foot but not enough to get the back to swing out.

Tyres are always well above legal limits on my cars, so it was never down to thin tyres.

Good luck with your hunt K

Andrew



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Be exclusive and drive a Petrol 5 Series!

Current
'13 62 F10 535i MSport Auto

Previous
'04 04 E60 545i SE Auto
'03 53 E60 545i SE Auto (Stolen)
'98 S E39 523i SE Auto


Posted By: b318isp
Date Posted: 14-May-2010 at 16:20
Just a thought, but would you consider an E46? 330D or 323/325i would be good, smaller options.

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http://www.esatclear.ie/~bpurcell/index.html - My E30 318is Site


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 14-May-2010 at 18:21

Originally posted by b318isp b318isp wrote:

Just a thought, but would you consider an E46? 330D or 323/325i would be good, smaller options.

Having both the e39 and e46 at the moment, while I have great respect for the e46, I prefer the e39 overall.  I know a lot will come down to personal preferences but if I have to get in the car and drive a couple of hundred miles, I know I'll be fresher when I get there in the 5. 

Its more refined in terms of road noise, less crash and thump (both noise and shock) on our pock marked roads, etc.  I swapped the 17's on the 3 to 16's for that reason and its still not up there with the 17's on the current 5, never mind the 16's on the last.



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 14-May-2010 at 22:56
I've driven E46s a few times and while they are nice to drive, I (personally) would still rate the E39 as a better all rounder.

-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Eamo
Date Posted: 18-May-2010 at 14:56
Originally posted by kbannon kbannon wrote:

I've driven E46s a few times and while they are nice to drive, I (personally) would still rate the E39 as a better all rounder.


i have to agree - herself has an 318ci, i used to have a 325 touring and i drove dergsides old 330 for a week - all great cars

but i miss my old 535 and surprisingly my 523. i too am looking at another e39 but if the 4.4 guise - 540i. but going on the price of them in the UK, when they do come up for sale they are a lot cheaper here

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Posted By: Eamo
Date Posted: 18-May-2010 at 14:58
Originally posted by kbannon kbannon wrote:

I like the red one in the UK that you linked to.



me too!!!

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Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 22-May-2010 at 22:45

KB, I know you mentioned that a 530i might be a step too far, as regards road tax, etc. but these two are from a quality source and have just had a couple of grand knocked off the prices.  Spec's are decent, although they are slushmatics.

http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/Se-3.0-A/201003196674441/advert?channel=CARS - http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/Se-3.0-A/201003196 674441/advert?channel=CARS

http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/530-SE-A/200944195709319/advert?channel=CARS - http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/530-SE-A/200944195 709319/advert?channel=CARS



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 22-May-2010 at 23:37

Cheers D.

Although they are both nice ones, I'd still feel that I'd have to change the lights and I'd rather have a car that I'm fully happy with.

http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/i-auto-S/200938195261083/advert?channel=CARS - I am liking this one though...

Originally posted by kbannon kbannon wrote:

The first one is beside me at work - will call up tomorrow and check it out.

Took her for a spin the other day. Nice car with a few minor faults. No service history available which is a big down side ("the previous owner was a woman who brought it in from the UK and is friends with the dealer ) but looks, sounds and feels fairly clean. Still managet to scare a colleague that I brought with me!



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Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 23-May-2010 at 01:30

Originally posted by kbannon kbannon wrote:

No service history available which is a big down side ("the previous owner was a woman who brought it in from the UK and is friends with the dealer ) but looks, sounds and feels fairly clean.

Know what you mean about the lights.  Keep looking at our 328i with the same thoughts!

Re. service hist, if you have any previous reg info from the UK, BMW UK should be able to tell you who serviced it in the UK.  Unfortunately, they recently changed their Cust Serv number to a premium rate number for this service.  Link below.

http://bmw.co.uk/bmwuk/about/cservices - http://bmw.co.uk/bmwuk/about/cservices



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 23-May-2010 at 12:13

I wouldn't bother TBH. It sounded like a line from the sales rep. He first told me that it had a FBMWSH but when asked to see it he said there was none etc.

Either way there is nothing to show it was serviced over the last few years over here.



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Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 28-May-2010 at 23:18

Originally posted by kbannon kbannon wrote:

I like the red one in the UK that you linked to.

Slight price drop on this one.



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 29-May-2010 at 00:32

What about:

http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/540-MSPE/200934194 989232/advert?channel=CARS - http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/540-MSPE/200934194 989232/advert?channel=CARS

probably too heavy though



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 30-May-2010 at 11:43

Link not working but I'm guessing its the '03 540 in Wickla?

If so, looks like a nice car but its a bit leggy for my liking. 

There was another '00 (IIRC) recently on there for buttons but absolute poverty spec for a 540, e.g. std cloth seats, etc.  If there was a history to back it up though, and you transferred some toys from your own car then it might be interesting.  It seems to be gone now though.



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 30-May-2010 at 17:29

Yeah - the 540i.

Probably too thirsty for commuting around Dublin and IIRC the steering isn't as good as smaller E39s



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: b318isp
Date Posted: 31-May-2010 at 12:45
Any interest:

http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/1305908

http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/1347363



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http://www.esatclear.ie/~bpurcell/index.html - My E30 318is Site


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 31-May-2010 at 19:07

How about this?

http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/525-MANU/201021198168605/advert?channel=CARS - http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/525-MANU/201021198 168605/advert?channel=CARS



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 31-May-2010 at 21:05

Brendan, both are nice but your first one was just sold.

Diarmuid, I saw that one before - quite nice



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Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Peter Fenwick
Date Posted: 07-June-2010 at 12:47

Do all irish E39s have yelow indicators?

In the UK the facelift cars have clear indicators.

I've been thinking about an E39 530, again. May well go for an auto though as decent manuals are harder to find.



-------------
Entering an age of Austerity and now driving a Focus Diesel.


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 07-June-2010 at 23:06
No - the earlier ones after the facelift had different lights to the pre facelift but then they seem to have had another rework to all clears.

-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 15-June-2010 at 22:52

Took http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/M-SPORT-/201022198229989/advert?channel=CARS - this girl for a spin tonight.

Nice enough - seems quite clean. Imported from UK in Dec 2007.

  • Airbag light on.
  • No tax (€1k) (just got NCT
  • Crack/hole about an inch squared in the left side of the front spoiler
  • A few small scratches
  • very slight oil seep around rocker gasket (visible in engine pic)
  • Front mounted CD (wired up for multichanger)
  • No tape deck (to play my MP3s)
  • Wheels nice and clean with next to no marks
  • bodywork straight
  • leather clean

He is looking for €6,400.

What do you think?



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 16-June-2010 at 01:00

Looks good to me.  Assuming the mileage isn't an issue for you (not sure whether you plan on keeping this as long as the current one), then the couple of cosmetic issues are no major concerns at that price level.  You should know your way around these well enough to spot trouble.  Did you get the UK reg info?  If so, do a HPI just to be sure.

To sort out your MP3 prob, try one of these.  Mine arrived today, so if you give me a couple of days I can let you know that it works, but it allows ipod/mp3 connectivity as well as doing the Bluetooth thing.

http://caraudiosecurity.com/shop/product/products_id/10109.html - http://caraudiosecurity.com/shop/product/products_id/10109.h tml



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: b318isp
Date Posted: 16-June-2010 at 08:43
Originally posted by kbannon kbannon wrote:

Took http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/M-SPORT-/201022198229989/advert?channel=CARS - this girl for a spin tonight.



Aaaaagh! It's an auto! Doesn't look bad in the photos tho'.

-------------

http://www.esatclear.ie/~bpurcell/index.html - My E30 318is Site


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 16-June-2010 at 12:09

Unfortunately most post Y2K are.

Derg - does that kit have a jack socket - I've a Creative Zen Vision M which doesn't have bluetooth, etc.



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 16-June-2010 at 17:04
Literally just back in from picking it up from the installer.  At first glance it seems to have 2 or 3 types of jack, USB, Ipod, line, etc.  Away tomorrow but will report back in more detail Friday when I get a chance to have a proper look.

-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: Ben O Brien
Date Posted: 16-June-2010 at 23:28

Killian,

Not sure if this is of any use but im doing a bit of work on a 01 525i M sport at the moment. Its a black manual example, im fitting a 28k mile engine (verifiable with history) and i will be selling it in a few weeks time.

It is black with grey leather, standard sport wheels, fairly high spec, has the M5 high gloss trim,electric seats, mfsw, etc. 113k miles. Will be on sale for 4250ono with a fresh NCT (none at present so will test it - not sure if it will get 2 yrs.)

 



-------------
99' 740iL   
99' 728i Sport
98' E39 M5 - Avus Blue, Dec Car!
96' M3 Saloon - Estoril Blue
94' M3 3.0 Convertible
91' E34 M5 - 3.6, Macau Blue

*E36 M3's Breaking*


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 16-June-2010 at 23:37
Thanks Ben - change the leather for black and I'd consider it! Dunno if I could live with grey

-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Nigel
Date Posted: 16-June-2010 at 23:44

K

If you find one in the UK that you want looked at ....just ask.

Same offer as always, fly in, I'll take you there if you prefer.

I've only had mine a week, it's possibly a bit older than you want, but so far I'm very impressed.

I wouldn't worry about fuel ( I can't do anything about Irish road tax of course), according to the data on autotrader, there isn't much difference between the 2.0, 2.2, 2.5 in both guises, 2.8 & 3.0.

So far my obc says 31.7, it was on 21.9 when I bought it (I zero'd it), the owner for the last 7 years had only covered 11,000 miles, so I guess it hadn't been out of town much.



-------------
Best Wishes

Nigel



Posted By: Ben O Brien
Date Posted: 17-June-2010 at 14:15

@ Killian, Will do if i can find black leather!

Will keep you posted.



-------------
99' 740iL   
99' 728i Sport
98' E39 M5 - Avus Blue, Dec Car!
96' M3 Saloon - Estoril Blue
94' M3 3.0 Convertible
91' E34 M5 - 3.6, Macau Blue

*E36 M3's Breaking*


Posted By: Dan39
Date Posted: 18-June-2010 at 17:50

I know im a newbie but i have an 02 530i M-sport in black, full black leather interior, full service history (last 3yrs with AC, Richie knows and has driven the car) loads of reciepts. I'll try post a picture later but email me if you are interested



Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 18-June-2010 at 22:01
For once I'll allow it (I can bend the rules for myself). Stick the pics/details up

-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Dan39
Date Posted: 19-June-2010 at 18:50


Posted By: Dan39
Date Posted: 19-June-2010 at 18:51


Posted By: Dan39
Date Posted: 19-June-2010 at 18:52



Posted By: Dan39
Date Posted: 19-June-2010 at 18:52


Posted By: Dan39
Date Posted: 19-June-2010 at 18:56


Posted By: Dan39
Date Posted: 19-June-2010 at 19:03

O2 BMW 530i SPORT AUTO 140k

Black leather sport int, m power kick plates, 3 keys, e/w, e/m, criuse con, climate con, heated mirrors, 6cd auto changer, 17" M sport wheels, xenons, clear lenses all round, privicy rear glass (not stick on tints) FSH with reciepts.

Any other questions just ask

Not sure if pictures are showing but i can email  them to you just pm me



Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 19-June-2010 at 21:37

Pics not showing (copied from your email inbox) - email to mailto:info@kbannon.com - info@kbannon.com

I'd be interested but mileage is deterring me tbh. What price are you thinking of?



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 19-June-2010 at 23:59

What about this?  VRT is €824.

http://search.autotrader.co.uk/es-uk/www/cars/BMW+5+SERIES/Ne-2-4-5-6-7-8-27-44-49-53-61-64-67-103-133-146-236,N-9-21-43-62-240-4294966943-4294967078/advert.action?R=201023360702525&distance=338&postcode=TW14HS&channel=CARS&make=BMW&model=5+SERIES&min_pr=1000&max_pr=7000&max_mileage=100000&vehicleYearOfManufacture=2000&vehicleRegLetter=X - http://search.autotrader.co.uk/es-uk/www/cars/BMW+5+SERIES/N e-2-4-5-6-7-8-27-44-49-53-61-64-67-103-133-146-236,N-9-21-43 -62-240-4294966943-4294967078/advert.action?R=20102336070252 5&distance=338&postcode=TW14HS&channel=CARS& make=BMW&model=5+SERIES&min_pr=1000&max_pr=7000& amp; amp;max_mileage=100000&vehicleYearOfManufacture=2000& ; ;vehicleRegLetter=X



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 20-June-2010 at 00:36

Its nice and the VRT is a plus but I'm drawn more to the 525i Sports though (I'm getting very pernickety though, aren't I).



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 21-June-2010 at 10:09

Originally posted by kbannon kbannon wrote:

(I'm getting very pernickety though, aren't I).

If you aren't under any particular pressure then there's nothing wrong with holding out for what you want.

Just a thought though, if you want a Sport for the handling then there really isn't a huge amount between the Sport and the SE.  My sport (pack - with a small s rather than the Sport) has the firmer, lower suspension, 17's, dechromed, etc. and (imho!) looks great but on the road, other than the additional grip of the 17's over 16's, there isn't a huge difference in handling.  If anything, this one is a bit more inclined to initial understeer compared to the previous SE.

If, on the other hand, the bodykit and visuals are the attraction then hold out for what you want.



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: Ballcock
Date Posted: 21-June-2010 at 13:11

http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/1230721 - http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/1230721

Looks lovely, well spec'd & sensible miles - only blot is it being an auto but the autos on 2.5litre+ 6 pots are lovely to drive all the same....



-------------
E34 Pilot - Keeping it Old School on Irish Roads.


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 21-June-2010 at 18:33

I'm going for the sport for the visuals both inside and outside.

As for the one on donedeal - I tried calling them and got no answer. There is another one on there with 10K more miles that I may be meeting with tomorrow.



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 22-June-2010 at 17:10

K - Not sure if you've checked this one out already?  Other than a lack of climate control, it seems to tick a couple of the boxes you have in mind.

http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/525-MANU/201021198168605/advert?channel=CARS - http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/525-MANU/201021198 168605/advert?channel=CARS

PS - it has the very rare e39 option of a slippy diff, apparently!



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 22-June-2010 at 21:04

I saw that one alright - had planned on checking it out last weekend but missus had other plans for me. I might pop down tomorrow after work. The cream I can live with but would I be happy with the <mode=snob>1980s fan dials</mode=snob>?



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 25-June-2010 at 16:55

Went down to view it today. Just sold for 8k but the new owner had just returned for a service and seemed quite happy so far. Wheels were nice in 18" (seemed to have been resprayed but since kerbed).

Plenty of dings and dents. Black plastic trim along doors seems to have been glued on again but kept my lip bit as I didn't want to start pointing out flaws to the new owner.

He had no idea about the LSD or what it did. (What a waste!)

Anyhow, nice enough car but I wouldn't have bought it.



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 05-July-2010 at 10:44

Another one for you, perhaps.  Pics not great so can't tell for sure if its as clean as you find like, but spec and price are good if it checks out.

http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/M-Sport/201027198677323/advert?channel=CARS - http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/M-Sport/2010271986 77323/advert?channel=CARS

An e60 and pricier, but v. well spec'd and price is nice, if its as described.

http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/530-AUTO/201027198677309/advert?channel=CARS - http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/530-AUTO/201027198 677309/advert?channel=CARS



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 16-August-2010 at 11:49

I'm going to check this girl out later: http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/525-M-SP/201032199190412/advert?channel=CARS - http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/525-M-SP/201032199 190412/advert?channel=CARS

Price includes VRT & NCT (both to be done).



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Andrew Rolland
Date Posted: 16-August-2010 at 12:31

Looks a good'un K!

Low low miles.  Nice!

It has different sized number plate mounting points?  I thought Irish plates were much the same size as Uk ones? 

Good luck with it.



-------------
Be exclusive and drive a Petrol 5 Series!

Current
'13 62 F10 535i MSport Auto

Previous
'04 04 E60 545i SE Auto
'03 53 E60 545i SE Auto (Stolen)
'98 S E39 523i SE Auto


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 16-August-2010 at 14:07

Spotted that car on Carzone this morning an thought about you.  Top price for an e39 but spec and mileage is good (don't know if you spotted the xenon's as well - a v nice e39 option given that the std lights are a bit puny). 

Be aware though, its probably a Jap import.  IIRC, the bootlid differenece that Andrew draws attention to above is only available in the US and Japan.  To my knowledge other RHD countries in South East Asia, such as Singapore, use the std bootlid as we do.

Nothing wrong with a Jap import though, if it all checks out. 

I know e60 may not be your thing but some attraactive pricing on a few at the moment.

http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/520i-SE-/201032199176898/advert?channel=CARS - http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/520i-SE-/201032199 176898/advert?channel=CARS

http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/530-AUTO/201032199142770/advert?channel=CARS - http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/530-AUTO/201032199 142770/advert?channel=CARS

 



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 16-August-2010 at 14:53

I've shaken on it for 9k.

All fluids were being changed when I went in, MAF needs replacing (on order), radio needs to be tuned for European bands, 2nd key being ordered (I do this), toolkit and spare missing - will be replaced from another E39 there, air con to be regassed.

It comes with a 3 month warranty (which I will get in writing).

No service history available (as its a Jap import) but I was able to see underneath, etc. adn it certainly looks tidy.

A few pixels not 100% on the OBC but other than that its perfect (except its silver).

It will require a square plate on the back but the plate holder on the front can come off so I can have a proper plate there.

Seemingly they are the original tyres but seem fine.Brakes are a bit soft compared to my own but hopefully a fluid change sorts them out.

It certainly looks and feels solid. I'll get it checked out by AC but I'm quitely confident that all is well.

 

(now I've to buy a pipe and slippers to go with the auto)



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 16-August-2010 at 15:14

Good man KB!!  No messing around there.

Will you need to learn Japanese for the SAT NAV?  What is the Japanese for Mad Cow interchange?

If its as tidy as it seems and as it should be with that mileage then you've got yourself a bit of a bargain there.  When you consider what we both paid for our '97's when they were this age you realize what a change there has been in the marketplace and in values in that time. 

I feel like I got great value out of my last one.  At half, or in my case a third, of the price of those then there is the potential for a lot of cheap motoring.  It seems strange using that word in a sentence referring to cars with 2.5l engines!!

Best of luck with the purchase and enjoyable motoring!



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 16-August-2010 at 15:27
TBH, I didn't bother looking at the satnav but the menu works in English so maybe the satnav does too (I don't really need satnav anyway)

-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Andrew Rolland
Date Posted: 16-August-2010 at 18:07

Nice one K, looking forward to seeing more pics.  Did you trade in the 523i?

Dergside, how did you work out that it was a Jap import?

Intersting, so that has just come of the boat from Japan then straight to the Emerald Isle then?  Or did someone bring it over with them or does that dealer specialise in imports?

I suppose it's not like its a model that we don't get here.  So it won't be a "grey import" then will it?

PS you won't need a pipe and slipper set with that Auto, it will be potent enough!

Oh aye and make sure you get the autobox serviced....drone....on....



-------------
Be exclusive and drive a Petrol 5 Series!

Current
'13 62 F10 535i MSport Auto

Previous
'04 04 E60 545i SE Auto
'03 53 E60 545i SE Auto (Stolen)
'98 S E39 523i SE Auto


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 16-August-2010 at 18:20

The square plates identify it as an import (mandatory to have a square rear plate on an import).

It was apparently sitting in the docks for a year (liquidation sale allegedly).

I still have the 523i and once I own the 525i, I'll look at getting rid but I'd get more selling it for parts, etc. than as a trade in.



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 16-August-2010 at 18:25

Oh and all the cup holders work (another sign that it wasn't used!)

The Japanese for mad cow interchange is ¿ñÅ£²¡¥¤¥ó¥¿©`¥Á¥§¥ó¥¸ or Kyougy¨±by¨­ int¨¡chenji.

 

 



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 16-August-2010 at 18:58

Originally posted by Andrew Rolland Andrew Rolland wrote:

Dergside, how did you work out that it was a Jap import?

The bootlid is different on Japanese models.  Not sure why they did one specifically for that market, but see part number 1 - http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=DM32&mospid=47539&btnr=41_0055&hg=41&fg=60 - http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=DM32&mospi d=47539&btnr=41_0055&hg=41&fg=60



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 16-August-2010 at 19:03

Originally posted by kbannon kbannon wrote:

The Japanese for mad cow interchange is ¿ñÅ£²¡¥¤¥ó¥¿©`¥Á¥§¥ó¥¸ or Kyougy¨±by¨­ int¨¡chenji.

Useful to know - pub quiz trivia and all that!!

I dare say you probably won't want to do it yourself, if possible, but if you break the old one let me know.  I'll take a few bits off you!



-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: b318isp
Date Posted: 17-August-2010 at 13:19
Congratulations, hope it serves you well. The E39 has got to be one of the best bargains out there. Brilliant car in all its versions, but you knew that already .

-------------

http://www.esatclear.ie/~bpurcell/index.html - My E30 318is Site


Posted By: stephen520i
Date Posted: 27-August-2010 at 17:47
Originally posted by kbannon kbannon wrote:

I'm going to check this girl out later: http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/525-M-SP/201032199190412/advert?channel=CARS - http://www.carzone.ie/search/BMW/5-Series/525-M-SP/201032199 190412/advert?channel=CARS

Price includes VRT & NCT (both to be done).



Why can't I view the car when I check on the link? It just default to view all cars.


-------------
E34 520i auto leather

Previous: E36 93 316i M40 Boston Green




Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 27-August-2010 at 22:48

The advert has expired.

http://picasaweb.google.com/kbannon.com/Documents?authkey=Gv1sRgCL6vsbmxhe6IiQE&feat=directlink - See here for a few pics that I've taken of her (but bear in mind that she needs a wash now)...



-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 21-August-2011 at 01:48
(sorry for resurrecting this old thread)
I have this girl nearly a year now and the odometer today crossed the 40,000 km barrier (~25k miles).

In the year, I've had two issues - the pump for the washer jets stopped working and needs to be replaced.
The front pads went the day before I was due to sail out to Franceland. Picked up a set of pads on departure day from GSF but these turned out to be incorrectly labelled (were for an E39 but didn't fit so I guess a factory error) but they delivered a set of alternative pads to the house.

During a the trip, the car loved the autoroutes. Cruising along at about 160km/h with a roofbox and not a bother (fuel consumption aside). (Someone made a light 6" scratch on the bonnet and I'm gutted - feckin French).

The tyres are near the legal limit but given that they are the originals, its not bad.

Not a bad buy in fairness!


-------------
Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor
Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE
1997 E39 523i
2003 E39 525i Sport Individual


Posted By: dryle
Date Posted: 05-September-2011 at 16:02
KB my e39 went the whole way through the UK with a loaded roofbox, book and bike rack and then some on the other side before running out of petrol at 1:00am. doh. Was easily doing a 90 mph most of the way down. This was a few years back.

-------------
Dave Ryle


"The power of accurate observation is commonly called cynicism by those who have not got it." -- George Bernard Shaw


Posted By: BMWFann
Date Posted: 06-September-2011 at 00:08
I have seen a 530i with the price of $9900. It was produced in 2001 but it is very maintained and looks very cool. It looks aproximately like the car from the image... if you want to give you the contact information then please let me know. thank you! Smile

[image]http://www.bmwcoop.com/wp-content/images/2011/08/bmw-5-series-35.jpg[/image]
Image from: http://www.bmwcoop.com/2011/08/18/bmw-5-series/" rel="nofollow - http://www.bmwcoop.com/2011/08/18/bmw-5-series/


Posted By: Dergside
Date Posted: 14-September-2011 at 18:11
KB - Glad to hear that its been a good buy.  In fairness, other than issues that might have been related to its previous lack of use, it was practically out of the box when you bought. 
 
I had a similar washer pump issue with my first 523i, not an overly expensive fix but a bit of a pain because the bottle and pump are hidden under the wing.  I've added 32k miles to mine since early last year but only about 2k since about May (and 1k of that was over 3 consecutive days last month!) as I was using Mrs D's old 328i and the 325i for most of the summer.  It has been absolutely reliable and you can't ask for more than that. 
 
I've used its recent lack of use to get a bit of a vibration from the rear sorted.  It wasn't anything major but took a couple of attempts to eliminate as there seemed to be a couple of contributing factors coinciding (rear wheel bearings, a slightly stiff inner CV joint in a drive shaft and a couple of rosejoints and bushes rear and front).  None of these have been ruinously expensive to deal with but I had a similar stage with the previous 5 where it needed a good bit of TLC at the rear but has run on another 60k since then without need of anything further. 
 
Even with this spend though the maintenance costs, in terms of cent per mile, have been about 40% less than the last car averaged over 100k miles.  Also, in terms of depreciation, if this car was depreciated at the same rate per mile as the last one (that worked out at about 17c per mile over 7 years) then it would now have a written down value of â‚¬60.  On that basis, by the end of next week I'll be having to give cash with it if I sell!  Might as well hold on then!
 
Gotta love slightly upmarket bangernomics!
 
Re. cruising the autoroutes of France I have to say a word for the capabilities of the slightly less powerful BMW's.  Just back last weekend from a 2k mile spin around in Mrs D's e91 318i.  Over that distance it averaged 40.3mpg according to the obc.  This included a 650km stint back to Cherbourg and home loaded with 90+ bottles of the finest output of French vinyards in addition to all our hiking and sun/sea/sand gear.


-------------
Now: BMW 523i SE '00, 318i SE - e91 '07, 325i Coupe '93.

Prev:
e46 328i SE Touring, 330Ci, 318Ci.
e39 523i SE.
e36 325i Coupe *2, 323i SE, 316iSE.
e30 325iSE 2dr, 320i Conv, 320i 2dr, 316i.


Posted By: steven.seed
Date Posted: 16-September-2011 at 00:10
Hi Killian,
I have to say my 2000 E39 520i touring is a top, top motor.
It's now 200 miles off 150k miles and since i bought it has been totally reliable.
It's nice to drive, smooth, quiet, pretty fast, powerful ( tows my large caravan no problem ), roomy (lots of room for the dog in the back and a pair of ladders with the rear seats folded down), has all the features you need ( including about 10 airbags ) and I love it to bits,
The only issue is the fuel consumption ( 2 liter 24 valve six pot ) which is about 25/26mpg  normally but towing the caravan on a run is a pretty good 22/23 mpg.
Your decision to stay with the E39 is a good one I think, a great car
Cheers  Steve.


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1998 E36 318iS Saloon   
1989 E30 318i. Coupe
2000 E39 520i Touring



Posted By: Andrew Rolland
Date Posted: 16-September-2011 at 08:54
I still miss my E39 even after virtually 4 years of E60 ownership.  That means I've owned an E60 for longer than I owned my E39...Time flies.....
 
I came accross photos of my E39 on my 'puter the other day and felt a tug on the old heartstrings.  It was a slightly better looking car and I preffered the colour of my E39 to that on my E60.  The E39 had a couple of things that just made life that bit easier than the newer E60 has.  The E39 had a boot release button down at your right ankle, the E60 just has a blank.  The E39 had a curry hook on the inside of the boot/rear wheel arch liner, the E60 doesn't. 
 
Steve your consumption is quite low er high, I mean poor.  My 523i did better than that as does my E60.  Although you get better mpg when towing than I do when I'm towing with my E60.  Might be worth investigating?


-------------
Be exclusive and drive a Petrol 5 Series!

Current
'13 62 F10 535i MSport Auto

Previous
'04 04 E60 545i SE Auto
'03 53 E60 545i SE Auto (Stolen)
'98 S E39 523i SE Auto


Posted By: steven.seed
Date Posted: 16-September-2011 at 10:47
Your right Andrew the consumption is on the high side but to be fair I don't use it much and apart from going away with the caravan the journeys are short so it hardly gets warmed up.
Also added to that is the fact that I have a heavy right foot. LOL
I suppose because of that I have put up with the high use of fuel. Maybe next service I'll get them to investigate.
It does run very well and there's always a bit of  'if it ain't broke don't fix it'  at the back of my mind.
It's a really practical car with some nice features like the built in dog guard and split boot with the glass opening separately and of course the tailgate release etc.
It also has the self levelling suspension which is great for towing the caravan.
Yes for my lifestyle its definitely 'fit for purpose'Thumbs Up


-------------
1998 E36 318iS Saloon   
1989 E30 318i. Coupe
2000 E39 520i Touring



Posted By: Andrew Rolland
Date Posted: 16-September-2011 at 12:14
I did wonder but though better of suggesting short journeys coupled with a heavy right foot.....
 
If it ticks all the boxes you would never change it.
 
As Dergside mentioned, bangernomics, more like oldexecutivebargenomics.
 
Got to love themSmile


-------------
Be exclusive and drive a Petrol 5 Series!

Current
'13 62 F10 535i MSport Auto

Previous
'04 04 E60 545i SE Auto
'03 53 E60 545i SE Auto (Stolen)
'98 S E39 523i SE Auto


Posted By: steven.seed
Date Posted: 17-September-2011 at 08:06
Originally posted by Andrew Rolland Andrew Rolland wrote:

 
As Dergside mentioned, bangernomics, more like oldexecutivebargenomics.
 
Got to love themSmile


Absolutely right and thinking about it I haven't mentioned the best bit, I only paid £1100 for it. Bought it off a chap in Scotland and went up to collect it with a mate who drove it half of the journey back and couldn't believe how great it was, reckoned its the best car he'd ever driven. Other than a couple of bonnet stone chips there is no rust anywhere.
My mechanic checked it over very thoroughly and said everything was A1.
The engine is extremely quiet and at motorway speeds its almost silent.
It's turned out to be a good honest workhorse. Never gonna be concours but its clean and tidy.

like you say, got to love them Thumbs Up


-------------
1998 E36 318iS Saloon   
1989 E30 318i. Coupe
2000 E39 520i Touring



Posted By: Lisa Dodd
Date Posted: 09-December-2013 at 08:07
I've owned also have been provoked into running wide at the front end with the kerb appearing a bit too quickly at your nearside front wheel on giving a bit of right foot but not enough to get the back to swing out.



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