Further to my recent post, I'm kind of leaning towards the 530 Sport now, circa 2000 -2003
Heck knows why really because my 3.0 Elite is running beautifully.....Fancy a bit of a change I guess !
Any views or advice please.
Interesting.
I changed from a 3.0 Elite MFL Omega Saloon to an e39 535i Saloon over a year ago.
A few notes;
The Omega is more Comfortable, much more 'wafty'. The e39 is much more planted and capable in the bends but doesn't feel like an executive saloon with the M-Sport suspension. That said, the ride is definitely acceptable.
The throttle pedal takes some getting used to, but that can be said of any BMW.
With Auto's, the e39 Transmission is infinitely better than the Omega, providing smoother power delivery and better economy. It likes to keep hold of it's 'learn' though, so if you potter around most of the time (as I do) and occasionally stamp on the loud pedal, it can take a second or two to decide that you REALLY want 1st gear! Same to be said if you generally floor-it everywhere, it will delay upshifts when taking it steady.
Servicing costs are very similar - My V8 swallows more oil and much more coolant than the Omega, but twice a year and once a year respectively, not a major issue. Has been running on Vx oil and Coolant since I've had it, no issues. Brake pads and discs are similar in cost. Suspension components on mine are expensive, but they are all aluminium. Not sure how the Straight6 fares.
Boot size is comparable (cavernous) but annoyingly with the e39 there are no split-fold rear seats. You get a solid bulkhead with the exception of very few cars....... Obviously an estate wont have this problem.
NO RUST EVER with a e39 unless it has been accident damaged and repaired. If there is rust on an e39, it has been badly repaired and should be avoided.
Apart from the pixel issue with the on board computers (both in the centre console and the dash clocks) electrics seem to be quite robust. Both units can be fixed by a well-known company for a LOT less than online quotes. Problems reported with the later cars and their more complicated centre consoles, but chances are that issue would have been fixed on a car which has reached 10 years old.
That's all I can think of for now, but if there is anything you are particularly interested in, just ask and I'll give you my honest view.
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Topic: BMW 530 Sport. (Read 2617 times)