Debating on 530i vs 540i

[SentinelFPS]

Right so I am looking to purchase an E39. Preferably between the years 2001-2003. I test drove the v8 with the M62 engine and everyone is saying all the issues the engine has. Timing chains, gaskets, leaks, etc. I really enjoyed the power but it seems the 530i with the m54 engine is a lot more reliable. Even though it has little power it’s better. I’ve never purchased my own car and I am excited for the first but I need something that won’t empty my pockets and make me regret buying it. I’m naive and still on the 540 side for the power but it’s engine is very meticulous. And needy. But if I can fin a manual 530i in good condition I might take a look at that. I’d really appreciate any feedback. My budget is around $6000 total and I would like to keep the car for a while. Thank you in advance for replies.

[White94RX]

Sounds like you know enough to make an educated decision.

[BigC986]

Right so I am looking to purchase an E39. Preferably between the years 2001-2003. I test drove the v8 with the M62 engine and everyone is saying all the issues the engine has. Timing chains, gaskets, leaks, etc. I really enjoyed the power but it seems the 530i with the m54 engine is a lot more reliable. Even though it has little power it’s better. I’ve never purchased my own car and I am excited for the first but I need something that won’t empty my pockets and make me regret buying it. I’m naive and still on the 540 side for the power but it’s engine is very meticulous. And needy. But if I can fin a manual 530i in good condition I might take a look at that. I’d really appreciate any feedback. My budget is around $6000 total and I would like to keep the car for a while. Thank you in advance for replies.

I'd do some research, I feel like the subject has been debated an discussed over the years. After owning a E38 7 series with an m62 I decided to personally go with a e39 530i/5 instead of a e39 540i/6 when I purchased mine back in 2012. In my opinion its all about preference and budget. I chose the 530i because it was better on gas, more reliable and cheaper on maintenance. Both cars in today's standards are under powered compared to similar sized newer cars. Both are over 10yrs old and both will have issues due to age and mileage. m62's can be reliable if taken care of but it also depends on what you want. If you want a cool Daily driver to commute with, i'd chose the 530i. If you want something with more performance in mind, go with the 540i.

[jclausen]

6 cylinder is much simpler as far as oil leaks, no valley plate, in intake reseal (for the most part), timing chain issues.

[BimmerBreaker]

530 is much easier and cheaper to maintain with less failure points

540's will need timing chain guides done, just a matter of time, $$$$ to fix

[shoman24v]

Maybe consider an E46 with an M54? Less complicated than a 5-series and more reliable.

Even with a 6k budget, I'd expect you to put some money into the car in maintenance.

[dannyzabolotny]

I'd go with a 540i/6, but I'm also a masochist and love working on these cars.