New BMW thoughts and questions

[stedaley]

Ive been asking around and a few bmws have been mentioned to have a look for!

I have a budget of 3000 and had e39 5series 530i 540i 530d come into the equation of a new car for next year.

I have a mate who has only ever had bmws and when mentioned to him about the 530i he said i should try and find the diesel version to save running costs and still have some fun!

I also would like to know if finding a manual is necessary or are the autos faultless? Just someone with previous experience on the matter would be good!

Also if you have any other bmws that fit in my price range let me know! Im after a long distance tourer that i can have abit of fun with occasionally

Ste

[stedaley]

So prefeably one that has had the work already carried out?

I know that money is good for a few different bmws but it will be a car i will hopefully keep and spend alot of time in for a good few years.

Are there any other models? 3series mainly that i should be looking for as well?
I would like a decent spec, all the bells and whisltes inside, to make it a comfortable tourer, what options should i look out for?