E39 520i

[M3333]

Hi,

Have been to look at an E39 520i this afternoon, 2000 on an X reg. Just after something comfortable to use as an everday vehicle that can eat the miles with ease.

I realise it won't set the world on fire but I already have an //M in the garage to tick that box.

Just wanted general opinions on this engine. Its the 170bhp model which I think is 2.2?

Its had 2 owners, is a fully specced face lifted model (full heated leather, cruise, m sport wheel), lots of history. Started and ran fine in this weather.

Seller wants 2k, it needs a few tyres, taxing, air bag light is on and the body is a bit scabby (front of sills and one rear door at the bottom) as its lived in the scottish highlands. I reckon I could drive it away for £1600.

I really wanted a 530d as a daily, but they fetch uber money and the cheapness of this offsets the extra for fuel?

So opinions please, will I get fed up being beaten by berlingo vans at the lights and will I need to get a flat cap and slippers thrown in with the sale?

The e39 is a lovely car to be in, I was very impressed by how modern it still felt and the quality was superb.

Where's the catch and what do I need to look out for?

Thanks in Advance chaps.

[Fox-]

The catch is that a shabby E39 is a massive money pit that'll cost you its purchase price many times over if you are unlucky. Cannot see the point in getting a cheap one - get a good one or dont bother.

Nothing about the 520i is any cheaper to run than a 530i and the money mine has cost to keep on the road since 4 years old I'd serously begrudge if it was going on a shabby 520i.

Edited by Fox- on Tuesday 21st December 21:58

[steve_bmw]

there are loads of good e39's for sale, i would rather spend a bit more and get a 525 or a 530, there wont be any difference on running costs, i paid £3000 for a beautiful 525 on a 2002 plate, needed a few minor mechanical jobs doing but the body is as new.

[matt21]

might be selling mine soon. 2000 530iA SE, sat nav etc, FBMWSH, 177k, recent LPG conversion (so cheaper in fuel than a 530d), needs nothing doing about 2.5k.

A good solid, reliable E39 is worth its weight in gold, get a goodun your laughing but as others have said a bad one and they are a serious moneypit!

[M3333]

Hi Matt,

Pop me an email over might be interested.

Thanks for the comments. In fairness I don't think this one is a total shed, it looks like someone has loved it, just decided to change, it has loads of history. I might make a very silly offer and walk away, seems to be a buyers market and I am in no rush.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&am...

Think ill make a silly offer and wait until the new year if he doesn't play.

Cheers.

[matt21]

will send you a note if I do elect to sell

personally for the same costs I would go for a 530i. an extra 60bhp with no real loss of economy or running costs. The 2.2 is a peachy engine though, but a lot of car to lug about.

I would also say it is quite a way of mint (not that you said it was), but if it solid then that is key, and a lot of car for the money.