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BMW 540i E39 Series Review
The 1997 E39
Thinking of buying a classic, yet powerfuly, intriguing, luxury car? The 1997-2003 BMW 540i might be just the car you’re looking for. The BMW 540i is built upon the E39 5-series chassis made from 1997-2003. One of the reasons these cars are so popular is because they have a long, 6-year history. A better reason, however, for the 540i’s success is the style and performance. My own 1997 E39, 540i Bimmer still out performs any other car that I ever owned. Finally, these cars when 8-12 years old are super affordable, yet still look as desirable and appealing as when they were new. The fit and finish are remarkable and the paint is still as glossy and shiny as a brand new Bimmer.
BMW 540i Equipment and Performance
Luxury and Convenience
My own, 1997 540i, has 143,000 miles on it, yet the leather seats are still incredibly firm and comfortable. Everything inside looks new and the fit and finish are still as solid and apparently well-made as when the car was new. The luxury and convenience are remarkable for a 12-year old car. On cold mornings, I literally cannot wait to get inside my car and turn on the heated leather seats and steering wheel. Everything is power controlled, from the steering wheel, to the headrests, seats and mirrors. The 540i is equipped with an impressive trip computer and radio that can be controlled both from the steering wheel or the center dashboard. In addition to the typical time, temperature and fuel consumption readings, you get a speed timer, arrival and destination timer, speed limit warning and a few other things that I have yet to figure out how to use. I worried how a rear wheel drive, with sports tires on 18” Rims would do in the snow. I live at the bottom of a very steep cul-de-sac where other rear wheel drive cars have been left stranded on snowy, ice-packed days. Thanks to the Traction Control and Sheer weight of the car, I’m happy to say that I’ve never had a problem on wintry days.
What can I Expect to Pay For One?
Depending on the year and mileage, you can get a great looking E39 Series Bimmer from $5,000 to $9,000. Keep in mind, this is just your initial cost. As every one knows, Bimmers are not cheap to maintain. A common issue with these cars is that the radiators need to be replaced every 40-50,000 miles. You can also expect to replace the valve cover gaskets and intakes after 80-100,000 miles. Believe me from my own experience; fixing the intake and valve cover leaks, will improve the performance 10-fold! Another common ailment is that the LED lights on the dash and console tend to burn out. There is an easy fix for this that you can find on bimmerfest.com. I was able to make this repair myself. I wouldn’t hesitate to plan on adding another $2,000- $3,000 for mechanical repairs and cosmetic upgrades to the additional, low purchase price of a 540i. The lasting appeal, luxury and enjoyment of owning a 1997 to 2003 540i Bimmer is worth the investment. When you add your repair, maintenance costs and upgrades to your initial purchase price, you will have a car that looks nice and drives better than new cars that cost twice as much. You will also be able to say, “I own a Bimmer”
What are you waiting for? These beautiful 5-Series BMW's are available right here: