Hey every1
Im a n00b here so go easy lol. I know its probably been beaten into the ground a million times by now but how exactly are the m60 engines in performance, reliability and tuning potential? Im looking at getting a 535i(3.5L)or possibly the 540 with the 4.4. Is any particular model better/worse? how is stock performance and what can these things run on the quarter if tuned right? im not looking for a quarter mile killer just something with straight line go and some power, handling shouldnt be an issure as these things handle well enough ive been told. Any help appreciated
cheers
Sam

The 6 spd manual 540i runs 14 flat at 102 MPH, basically the same as a non-lightweight E36 M3. The 540ia cars with an automatic run about 1/2 sec slower, just under 100 MPH.

I would not consider the carryover 3.5L power E39 that was sold in some countries. The alusil 4.4L has proven to last a real long time...many see 250K+ mi and still strong. Alusil blocks include the E39 M5 and ALL current BMW V8 motors.

The earlier 3.5L and 4.0L nikasil blocks that carryover from pre-'97 cars are prone to cylinder wearout. In the USA with our higher sulphur fuels, they sometimes wear out at 80K mi. The 4.4L lasts 3x that long or more on the samer diet and duty. You can do better than that lifecycle with a Russian, Czech or Polish car.