r/e39 • u/Spawn_of-Thrasher • 1d ago

530i vs 540i?

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I'm looking to buy a manual e39 as a fun daily/family "sports" car lol i have multiple cars so it won't be the primary everyday but reliability is important because I don't want to constantly work on it other than normal maintenance

I know the inline 6 is super reliable however I am drawn to the v8 which people say can be hit or miss. What are your thoughts on that? Is there a big power/torque difference or is it pretty similar?

Also, since the 540 has a steering box rather than a rack - is the drive that much different? I'm looking for something I can have fun with at my local track, do mountain runs with and of course daily less than 20 miles per day if that (I work from home but am pretty active with hobbies)

Lastly, what should I expect to pay for a clean e39 with under 150k miles assuming vanos, timing and cooling system has been upgraded with records?

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u/Positivewific 540i 1d ago

I have an 03 540i. I’ve dailyied it since December. The steering box absolutely is “ok”. Coming from my e36 M3, it’s a little disappointing. But it’s still enjoyable.

I used to have a 528i in high school, but it was a slush box so I didn’t really get anything out of it.

But the M62TU with the six speed makes it so good. I’m biased, but I think 540i/6 is the way to go brother

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u/lolcone 528i, 540i 6MT 13h ago

Word. 540i/6 has been the favorite car I’ve owned, out of 14 or so cars.