I currently drive a 2001 330 and am thinking about getting a 5 series. I was planning on waiting for the new 5 and getting a 530. However, I was thinking I can get a good deal in the next couple of months on a new e39 540 for around the same price or just a little more. Does anyone have an idea on if, when or how much the dealers will be negotiating on these cars?

In addition, I am considering the 6 speed manual. If I don't go for the manual, is the $3k sport package worth it for the auto? Does it make that much of a difference? :dunno

Thanks!:D

I have a 540i 6spd and have driven the auto. There is no comparison. If you are into performance go with the 6spd.

there is simply no comparison when it comes to 6 speed to auto, if you look at a 6 speed though, watch the clutch they slip fast with hard driving

I drove an E34 540I auto once, I hated it. Stay away from the auto, please, in the name of all that is good and holy!

Me and auto's never really got along, but the front end felt REALLY heavy compared to the M50. It felt like it gave the front suspension more of a cruiser feel than a sports car feel. Different springs probably would have had a profound impact on the way that car felt, so I won't write it off just yet...

I will advise you though, that a lot of people prefer the 530 over the 540. It's lighter and a bit sportier (so they say). Just make sure you need the 8 cyl before you pay for it ;)

yes, but the e34 is a MUCH different car then the e39, though you are correct, its gonna make it a little more front heavy, but with 282-290hp you shouldn't have much problem shifting the weight to the rear wheels:D

The clutch slipping problem is common on all e39's and is due to the clutch delay valve. It's easy to swap it with a modified one or just remove it. Test drive them both, if it makes you smile, buy the 540/6!!!!!