Which 540?

[mnhead11]

I have 30k to 35k to spend. Which 540 offers the best value? I'm told that I should look at the 2000 or 2001. In addition, how reliable are 540's with more than 50k miles. Any thoughts or comments would be appreciated. Thanks

Mark in VA

 

[Big Daddy]

BMW V8 engines are very reliable indeed, with the exception of the Nikisal blocks used in the mid 90's. I think with what you have to spend I would look at both the 2000 and 2001 models. I have a friend that has a 98 540ia and they love the car. good luck and enjoy!

 

[mnhead11]

Thanks for your response

Thanks for your response. I want if you know where I can get informatino on what the difference between the late 90's 540's and the 2000 to 2001 540's. Thanks again.

Mark

 

[Big Daddy]

Try this members page. He is very knowledgable about the 540's I am sure he will have the info or links to info.

Jimmy540

 

[Militant-Grunt]

According to Bmw Magazine which has a whole article on the bmw E39 5 Series they said any bmw 5 after year 1998 had most engine problems fixed

 

[adrean8j]

If I recall correctly BMW won some award this year and the year before for their v6's and v8 engines........for being the best overall.

 

[Big Daddy]

V8's, however BMW does not make a v6.

 

[Abdoman]

There is a lot of good info at www.540i6.com.

 

[brahtw8]

At some point the E39 540i engine, actually a 4.4 liter, changed. I think they added Vanos, (BMW's variable valve timing system) or went from single to double Vanos. That change occurred around the 9/98 production date. Both engines make 282 hp, but the earlier engine makes around 323 ft/lbs at 4000 rpm, and the later 335 or so at 3500. There may have been a final drive ratio change.

There are minor trim and wheel changes, the most significant of which occurred for the 2001(?) model year, when they went to "angel eyes" style headlights and different tail lights. The wheels on the 1999s and later cars are the nicer looking radial spoke design, instead of the previous design, which has the look of a 3-piece wheel (bolts around the outer edge).

If you can swing it, I would go for the 2001, as I like the updated look.

 

[Heezyo2o]

Hmm, I wasn't aware that the taillights changed in the e39s. Anyhow, I've seen 2000 M5s for around 45K. I'm not sure if your going to finance it or turn around and drop 35K in cash but if you finance it your monthly payments shouldn't be that much higher.

 

[Jimmy540i.com]

Try this members page. He is very knowledgable about the 540's I am sure he will have the info or links to info.

Jimmy540

Thanks!