BMW E39 - Best Car in the World?
Discussion
I very much like them, and some friends are totally obsessed! Consumer reports said that the 2002 530i was the best car they had ever tested, and I would agree at the time. All I want in a car. Smooth straight six engines, handle well, and a good size. I would say it was the best of the 5er, and while newer ones are objectively better, they don't do it for me that much.
I adored driving my previous E39 M5. Owning it, less so. Even a very good example still needs heaps of cash thrown at it regularly to keep it at its best. In the end other priorities meant I moved on, but so far it's still the best car I've ever owned, and I still miss how it drives and how well-built it feels. Great looking car too IMO in facelift guise; perfect balance of restraint and quiet authority.
welsh blackbird said:
I think someone has been reading their old Autocar mags from 20 years ago to prompt this - particularly the issue from 17/04/1996. 
nct001 said:
Yes it was the best car in its class
20 years ago.
Much has moved on, aside from many of the owners.
Much has moved on, yes. But that doesn't mean it's better. I drove a brand new E63, and whilst impressive in some regards, it didn't sound quite as good to my ears (turbochargers for you), and the high speed stability wasn't as good either (genuine use of test track), and the interior didn't feel as bank-vault solid. I also felt like a passenger when driving, it was not very engaging even when pressing on.20 years ago.
Much has moved on, aside from many of the owners.
k-ink said:
I wonder if a 540 would be the best overall ownership proposition - quick enough, but perhaps less stressed and cheaper to run than an M5? Someone I met ages ago said his 540 was the best car he had ever owned (he had some top end cars over the years).
Not with vague recirculating ball steering I'm afraid. The 530i is much nicer to drive.Gassing Station | General Gassing | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff