E46 330ci v E39 530 - MX5 Replacement

[AmiableChimp]

Hi folks,

I am selling my MX5 as I have scratched that itch, and really need something a wee bit more practical (i.e. 4 seats).

I have a mental list of cars I want to own, and an E46 330Ci is on it, however so is an E39 530

I know about the 330's issues with rust (rear arches/front wings?!) and suspension bushes - are there any weak points on the 5?

It will be a one stop shop car i.e. work and play so kinda stuck between the 5 series practicality of 4 doors against the looks (and maybe driving experience?) of a 3 Coupe.

Probably looking around £6K tops, any feedback greatly appreciated.

Oh, and would be thinking Sport model, with manual and coo-hide for both.

Cheers,
Steven

P.S. If you know of anyone with either and looking for a nice wee 2-seater...;)

[Jobbo]

I loved my E39 540i, and I love my E46 330i. I am just selling my MX5 and I owned it alongside both. So I may be able to give some relevant input.

The E46 is more fun to drive, the E39 is more refined but can still boogie if you want it to. They both have their own individual foibles (E46 window regulators, subframe tears etc, while sorting vibrations in an E39 can be virtually impossible). £6k is plenty for a perfect example of either.

Try them both and see which you prefer. I honestly can't say one is better than the other, since they're similar but have slightly different talents.