Hey everyone, I am new to the forums and had some questions. This summer/fall I plan to purchase a newer car (graduating from college). I have been looking at older 530/540s, M5s, but recently been looking into a 2004-2005 530i. Other than online research I dont know much about these cars. I will be going with a 6-speed version, and would love to get into a black/black one.

Are there any problem areas to look for in these cars? I figure with them being so new I shouldnt have problems, but it never hurts to ask. Also are they quick cars (obviousely compared to others in their class, not Vettes or Vipers), and how does the car feel?

I am sorry for the vague questions, just kind of want any and everyones opinions on all aspects of the car.

Also cant wait to get into a BMW this year, and have some information to actually add to the site instead of just asking things!

Brian

They don't come in 6-speeds. The manual transmissions have 5 gears. Check out the E34 vs. E39 sticky. Besides the actual comparison, it gives a pretty good list of owners' impressions of the car you're looking at.

A black/black E39 530i/5 is exactly what I'd be looking for if I wanted a newer car than what I have.

Really, I thought the 530s could be had in 6-speed. I was also looking into an 04+ 545i but those are fetching a little more money.

I read the comparison and it is definately helpful, I would just rather get into a newer body styled car! Only time will tell, but anyone else feel free to give your opinions.

get yourself a '95 540i if you can find one in good condition and save some money, then in a few years you can get into a newer bmw if you still want it...
...unless you are making 100K straight out of college.

Really, I thought the 530s could be had in 6-speed. I was also looking into an 04+ 545i but those are fetching a little more money.

I read the comparison and it is definately helpful, I would just rather get into a newer body styled car! Only time will tell, but anyone else feel free to give your opinions.

Thats true. I have been looking into older ones, but if Im going to stick with a $5000 car, I doubt Id buy a BMW. For that kind of money Id get something that if it broke on me, I could fix it easier and cheaper than a BMW. Ill definately see what Im making out of school, see what the payments are going to be like, and see if its something worth doing.

hey man you worked hard now treat your self you deserve it! i finally purchased my dream car and now have another style in mind, the 6 series!! i have been very happy with the performance and comfort of my 2002 530i but i would recommend getting a certified car if you plan on getting used! mine had 45k when purchased for $25k and 1.5 years later has about 77k on it so yeah it is obviously a fun car to drive and to be seen in but i understand the new body style envy! i missed it by a year!although i have had some electrical probs they have not set me back to far, just remember to check the maintenence on the car so your not surprised when it rolls around for your inspection #2 like i was!!i would purchase the service plan next time!! good luck!!

Have any pics of your Mustang??

E60 (2004 - newer) 530 manual is a 6 speed

Thats what I though... 6-speed

I have tons of pics of my Mustang. Racing, shows, interior engine bay etc... The pics I have are boring though, as the car looked pretty much stock. Its undergoing a total makeover, so new pics will definately be MUCH better!

I also said I'd get myself a fairly new 5series when I got out of college. I was driving a 1990 5.0 at the time. 8 years later I finally got around to getting the 5series, and I'm glad I waited. Driving that mustang for 12yrs or so saved me a ton of money so I don't regret it for a second.

Anyway, if you've got to go from a fox-body to a 5 series, you'll kick yourself if you don't get a V8. For the cost of a 04-05 530i, you could get a much more powerful 540i that's only a few years older.