530i 2000/2001 or 540i 1999 - which?

[jonno]

Greetings All, My first run in this site, Sitting in Australia am considering auto version of the above 2 cars. I want the size and comfort of a 5 series but am unsure as to which machine to go for. I value accelation and believe that I would be buying excellent technology in the V8 or am I best advised to run with the 530i? I would appreciate advice on this matter. Life is 50% country/ 50% city running. Is there a big diffrence in maintenance costs? Would appreciate any thought, Cheers.

 

[Montana]

Welcome. I don't have extensive knowledge on the 6 cylinder motors but my group of mechanics have very deep BMW experience, all the way back to Chech Republic. I took my car (seen here) to them for inspection before buying. For what it's worth, their advice was that the newer (post 97 or so?...whenever) V8 was "bulletproof". I am very happy with mine but only had it 3 months.

My guess is the maintenance costs are not too far apart, other than the general rule that more cylinders=more $ and higher fuild capacities and $.

You sure you don't want a manual? I mean I hear you on the city driving arguement with an auto, but with that power under your foot, you may just want the manual!

 

[wood_e]

540i.... do it

 

[jonno]

Thanks for the feedback, other experiences would also be appreciated, safe motoring!

 

[jonno]

Thanks for your help, jonno

 

[cpike3]

540, Hands down

I have a 2000 540, my brother in law has an older 535, and my father in law has a later 525. The maintenance costs are around the same, mine being more because it is newer. Their cars perform exceptionally well, but my car, the 540 is in a whole other category as far as performance. I get really nice gas milage on the highway, sometimes as much as 30 mpg, the city isnt too bad considering the weight and engine size (and my driving) but I get around 12mpg. It all balances out (I drive 50/50 highway/city) to around 17-20mpg. In the end, dont settle for a smaller engined, slower car, you will really wish you had the faster car. Just some thoughts...

 

[Ghost]

...I value accelation...

Then get the 540.

Is there a big diffrence in maintenance costs?

I’m sure there are differences in pricing, but the engine in the 540 is well built and doesn’t fail often. The most common breakdowns that I’ve heard of are the radiator (reservoir) and/or the water pump.

Good Luck in your decision.

 

[jonno]

Thanks for your thought, useful as it is an expensive decision here in Aus, Jono

 

[jonno]

Thanks very much for your input, Jonno