E46 330 Vs E39 530

[nerf]

Hello all...

I recently sold my E39 540, the best car i ever owned. I sold it because, well i think i just fancied a change, that and the fact I knew the chap in the petrol station by his first name... I bought an S Type jag, which is lovely, can't fault it, I smile stupidly when I'm sitting in it cruising around... but I think, I want another BMW.

so i'm thinking either another E39 5 series, but with a smaller engine, a 2.8Ltr or 3Ltr. Which would offer the same driving experience but hopefully a little cheaper (although I understand the steering is different from my old 540).

Or perhaps an E46 330.. Is the 3Ltr in the 3 series essentially the same lump as in the 5 series? I've never driven one, but always loved the styling and have read only good things about them. And can i assume that the MPG would be much better in the 3 (with the same 3Ltr lump) ?

i'm interested in any opinions on either car, particularly from anyone who have owned both.. as i really cant make my mind up.. I should mention i have about £3500.00 to spend...

[TonyRPH]

Same engine.

But the 530i is streets ahead in terms of build quality and ride quality.

The 330i rides... ok - but the 5 just wafts along.

[matt21]

Get a 530i manual you will average 30mpg. Or LPG it like I have, my 530iA is doing an equivalent of 45mpg at around 11ppm.

The steering is different, but with less weight it is far better.

Mines on 170k and the engines as sweet as a nut.

[d7jab]

I have an E46 330ise Tourer. lovely drive and really good on fuel too (for a 3 litre) 30+ mpg daily driving with a snesible right foot. The build is solid and i think both cars you are ocnsidering are lovely...it will just boil down to looks and what 'feels' right. 3 series everytime for me. Drove an M5...liked it driving it...but not a fan of the looks.

[Romanymagic]

I should imagine the E39 will be heavier than the E46 and therefore you should see a better power to weight ratio.

[nerf]

thanks for your replies all.
i guess its road-test time!
cheers!