Is an e39 523i a modern classic?

[highway]

That generation M5 is sought after as is a 528 or 530. My parents specced a 523 which they bought new in 1999. It's a base car, automatic, with options of an SE. However, as my mum hates the smell of leather they specced cloth interior. Car also has a sunroof.

They've done 55k in 18 years and I've persuaded them to sell this and there 330D touring to have another new BMW

I checked wbac for a baseline, the car is apparently worth little more than buttons. Given its age, condition and mileage and the surge in interest re cars from this era, I'd hoped the car would gnerate a reasonable amount towards their new car.

It's not the big engine and it's on 15" wheels. Not a performance car at all. What's realistic?

[highway]

I think it was about £27k when new. They bought it in Belgium at the same time I bought a new Z3. They don't need a new car but they- dad in particular, would like one. Given it's their money I'm all for it. Dad drove a 340 touring which he really liked. Given the acievable discount on new buying used perhaps not so attractive.

Anyway I've checked the PH classifieds for an idea. No way they will sell it for buttons its been garaged from new and belies its age. Given it's one owner from new and low miles I'd hope it's worth over £4K to the right buyer.

[highway]

Interesting opinions. They also have a 330D touring M sport from I think 02. That's very very tidy as well. They've had that since 04 and it's done 80k ish. They were going to keep this and sell the 5. Maybe worth considering the other way around. The 5 is pretty amazing for its age. Never damaged and not tired like most of them seem to be. They wouldn't part with it for the sums mentioned here.

[highway]

Hi, at 55k and garaged from day one it still feels fresh and new. They purposely didn't spec leather as my mum never liked the smell. I can achieve a healthy discount on a new non M BMW through work and they were interested. I've not been to see many 99 5 series but I don't imagine there are many one owner from new cars as nice as this. I'm also well aware of the depreciation on a new car, mitigated somewhat by the discount. However, given the valuations here I can't see them forging on with a sale.