BMW E61 Petrol Advice Please

[Magikarp]

I will be buying an E61 Touring at some point in the next four months or so (sooner if the right car presents itself), and would like to know of general issues that may manifest themselves.

I need an estate, and it has to be a large estate. I've had an E60 saloon previously (530d) which I loved, so see no reason why the estate won't be as good. I'm not doing the miles to justify a diesel. I appreciate this limits my choices somewhat, as does my budget of approximately £5000. There is some leeway but I won't be looking at £8000s. There seems to be a few petrols about on Autotrader that fit the bill. I would prefer a 530 but am open to the idea of the smaller engines, but doubt I could sneak a V8 home without questions being asked.

Not having had one of these engines before are they generally reliable? I work at a garage and there is an excellent specialist nearby so maintenance isn't an issue. I'm also happy to get a car serviced up to spec - part of the reason of going from a new car on contract hire to buying a used car outright is to cement monthly outgoings but we are allocating a certain amount for maintenance.

I am aware that my economy isn't going to be fabulous but that's not really a concern to a certain degree - again I'd love a V8 but pooling around delicately to get it up to 20mpg isn't my idea of fun.

I appreciate this is pretty vague, but I'm fairly chuffed I've managed to get my options down to a single brand, as opposed to the shedload I started with!

I always look at MOT history and service history but are there notorious things to look out for?

I have no preference for M Sport over SE specification, but am expecting not much choice and to be happy with what I get.

Thank you!

[Magikarp]

Thanks. I will bear that in mind. I'm also of the opinion I should simply speak to the specialist and see what he advises. I'm not averse to spending money to keep a car in good condition.

[Magikarp]

Thanks for the information, it will be most useful.

I surely have to practice my excuses about how a V8 ended in my position....

[Magikarp]

There is a lot to think about here. So much so that I’m beginning to doubt whether a diesel might not be a better option; as the likelihood of getting a V8 is remote.

[Magikarp]

I appreciate everyone’s advice. I had a 56 plate 530d saloon and it was a bloody marvellous car. I would prefer petrol because I do about 8 miles a day to work (or will do when I go back at any rate) and I think that the daily commute wouldn’t be ideal for getting the best out of the engine. I can of course extend it slightly....

[Magikarp]

d_a_n1979 said:

Does it have to be an E60/61'er?

What about either side, an E39 or an F11?

I don't have much money to spend and I'm a little concerned about the E39's propensity for rust. My budget, circa £5k will get an E61 comfortably. I can afford to go beyond this budget but it will affect our retirement plans if I do.

I am aware this could easily turn into a fool's errand and I've been told to get "something I'll enjoy". My thoughts did instantly turn to an M5 Touring, of course.

[Magikarp]

The 3 series boot is too small. I’d looked at Volvo v70s as well but by all accounts are fiddly and overly complicated to maintain. They also seem expensive.

I’d had an E60 before so know the car in general.

There are a few on Autotrader that seem agreeable enough as far as budget goes.

This is why I’m asking, to either confirm my choice or to have to rethink and end up with a bloody Mondeo.

[Magikarp]

Thank you. My previous E60 was a curious one. The first owner had spec’d individual nappa leather (in a gorgeous cream), dual zone a/c but manual seats and halogen headlights.

[Magikarp]

We have had a chat and the budget is no longer fixed - I’ve suggested that £7-8000 is more likely to get something better.

Hopefully when the time comes something suitable will present itself.

Thanks again for all your advice, it’s very much appreciated.

[Magikarp]

That's very interesting, thank you

I will investigate this. Not something I'd considered previously, having had an E60.

[Magikarp]

SPaul said:

If you would consider e60 instead of e61 check this one
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202104050...

that is my baby

Thanks, but I need an estate so the dogs can have their own spaces when we are out and about.