Definitely the best. Best interior too. I’m a fan of the F10 and G30 interiors but the E39 matches their superb material quality, has an even more rock-solid build quality, and has IMO superior styling- timeless with no screens.
Americans are really spoiled with manual transmission cars, here in Chile I can only find automatic BMW with any engine worth owning, all manuals are base model diesels.
I agree i such a great car also in my country they are pretty rare, i got an early 96 one, they are pretty bullet proof if you maintenance it the right way, i spent like 400 dollar on repair's in 2 year's on the drive train and like a 200 dollar's on oil change's and an new battery! it got 250k mile's on it and i rip the hell out of it when it's warme'd up, one thing you should look for an non vano's one, the m62b44 without the (tu) are much better mine is still on the first chain belt!
I just bought my first bmw. It's a 03 540i msport and I'm so in love with it. I have 130,000 on it and figured out the cost in maintenance is still cheaper than having a car payment and you still can't get the quality from any other car in that price range. So I say keep it for now and watch the value go up
@@delatroy it’s still going strong at 147,000. Only had to change The coolant reservoir because it cracked. I just bought the timing chain guides and seal kit for a summer project.
These cars are going up in value every year, the longer you keep it the more it will be worth. Hang onto it, keep it good shape and you will have a solid return on your investment, and then some! Plus the E39 is a lot more reliable than many of the more recent BMWs which suffer from over-complexity and electronic issues.
Both my 99 and my 00 540i MTechs have folding rear seats. They are not common and I don't know of any face lifted 01-03 models with folding rear seats. I'm pretty much only willing to let go of my 540i for an M5 for a daily sedan. Glad you're holding on to yours. Also I love the wrinkle black valve covers! I just painted mine last week. I'd love to check out your car in person. I'm in San Jose also.
Keep it - your not going to find something like this for your price range. Yes folding seats is an option. I do have a set of ultra low mileage shocks and springs off an M5 if the koni are not doing it for you.
Dude - I bought my '03 M-sport as my 'fun' car, did some work over a couple years to catch up on deferred maintenance then thought it was time to sell as usual and move on to the next thing. Well, it's been 6 years now, 8 years total, and she's still in the garage. It's a hard car to replace, it really is the perfect balance of ride, comfort, utility, performance and I also enjoy that relative anonymity you mentioned. Every other car does one of these better, but at the expense of another thing. It's also easy to work on (contrary to popular belief) and well documented with great parts availability. We have a similar overall outlook on the car, where we differ is that I would not use mine as a DD. Prefer to keep the miles off it and also it's that much more enjoyable to jump into after driving my reliable but rattletrap DD. I also got the Koni yellows, and find them to be just right - guess it's a taste thing. Regarding the cooling system - replace your coolant with waterless coolant and all the BMW cooling system issues will disappear. There is also a mod to put a cooler thermostat (from the M60) on the M62, M62TU which eliminates knock and I imagine lowers cooling system pressure which would mitigate much of the problem. You can easily search these online for more info, this is getting long. ;)
"You can easily search these online for more info, this is getting long. ;)" Very few cars inspire their owners the way the E39 does - to film, to write about and most importantly, I ALWAYS see E39 540i owners giving great how-to fix solutions when they see another E39 owner with issues. Rarely do you see a car inspire the owners to help other owners for the love of the model. The E39 540i is a unique vehicle, the most important point you made is that other cars tick the boxes in one or two categories better than the 540i, but I challenge you to show me another car that brings all of them together in such a beautiful balance. There's only one car that comes to mind immediately and thats the E39 M5, lol. The only way to best the E39 is with another E39! There is at least one Auto Repair Shop I know of that specializes in not just BMWs but specifically the E39 Source, in San Diego. You won't find a Mercedes Repair Shop named the W211 Source! And seeing the current prices for 540i Post-LCI M-Sports... I bet this dude is regretting the sale of this car!
Reality is that you are finding reasons not to sell e39, and you shouldn't. You are in love with this car and you should be. Bavarian perfection from Munchen! Great car!
I've got a very odd ball 2000 540i. It is a 6 speed, M Sport suspension, DINAN Tune, Upgraded intake and throttle body, also an M5 LSD (factory ordered). Black with tan interior, Non M sport wheel (heated), heated comfort seats. After I bought it, I added a Megan Racing front strut brace, did a full cat and resonator delete and 3" exhaust all the way back to a dual 3" tip muffler I got from Summit racing after the custom Y pipe I put in. Full ultra white halos and HIDs in front and euro tailights in the rear. Running staggered 19's , 285/35 rears and 245/40 fronts. It hooks up like a monster, drives like it's on Rails, and will almost keep up my my brothers F10 x drive 550i.
E39 M5 would have been the perfect step up! Alternative: IS350 First gen TSX E90/E91 335I? Any of these will be step down in cylinder count lol Keeping E39 540I sounds good
IS350 is auto only? TSX is nice but a little boring, I'd rather have a TL-S. 335i still has maintenance issues and would be a downsize. Hmmmm... This is tough.
Zygrene I would go for the TL-S 6 Speed because of rarity factor there very difficult to source out and would be a nice video to share with viewers again. M
They are pretty rat, but if you got the money, i should put an supercharger on the 540i that will push almost the same power on the wheel's as an stock m5 for less money! An decent low mile age m5 are pretty expensive this day's, it's still almost the same car if you look to option's there aren't that much difference's, only a bigger engine and an stiffer suspension and an lsd diff, which also was an option on the 540i manual, because they share the same manual 6 speed gearbox, this car's are getting more rare/expensive day by day, it isn't the right moment to sell the e39 believe me i bought mine 2 year's ago for 4.000 dollar in my country, now you can get an decent one for minimal 8k for an good non ruste'd one, the price just did double in just 2 years!..
I put the Bilesteins on mine (a 2002) and they were wonderful. The handling was more precise and the ride was a bit more firm, but due to the Bilsteins' excellent control, the ride was less fatiguing on long trips! Re. the steering, getting all the mounts/arms/etc. changed, as you did, shows its marvelous stability and communicability--better than my E90's!
A daily should not be a headache, sell it and get something that you like so much that you’d never even have to think about asking for the internet’s advice on whether or not you should keep it.
Zygrene Have you tried something like the last Pontiac GTO’s or G8’s? They’ve recently captured my attention. Another thing that might fit your criteria is the new MT Genesis G70, won’t be able to get the top engine with MT as of yet, but I’m quite curious myself as to what it can do.
It's difficult because when you're looking for a car in this category it is compromised by default. Really easy to fall in love with a balls out sports car because all it has to do is be fast and engaging and full of passion and what not. But when you're trying to make a car that handles well and feels connected to the road, while at the same time insulating you from too much road noise/harshness, seating you in a comfortable position, blowing cold air on your ass etc. You end up with a car that is a great all rounder, but not truly excellent at any one thing. So I can understand not being completely in love with the car because you never think "this car is INCREDIBLE at x" it's just pretty good at everything. To fit into the category the car is going to have to be somewhat "meh" and hard to be completely attached to. This could easily be the best car for what he wants. Just my 2¢ though, I can see where you're coming from.
I have a 2001 525i, it’s fun to drive but the little 2.5 litre inline 6 is a bit too small for a car that heavy , I’m going to try to sort out the small issues, sell it, & try to buy a 540i with a manual tranny, with the m sport package ☺️
I owned 3 x e39. First bougt by unintentionally, but I fell in love with those. Than I moved to e60, regretting it hard. Those e39 actually ultimate driving machines for everyday use, also to feel a bit power when needed, but comfort and quality are top, still so many years later not many cars can compare.
I'm sure someone already said so, but folding rear seats ARE available on 540i's. Mine is a 2000 M-Sport like yours, and the folding rear seats have opening mechanisms (each with a key lock) that feel extremely solid and practical, and when you close the seats, they sound as solid as the doors. Like everything else: bulletproof. Also, the wagon does come in a 540iT. Hoping for another video on your 540i. Thanks.
I have recently realized that riding passenger, both in the front and rear, and I found I am able to feel things suspension wise with a better understanding of the complete ride feel. I have been making it a point to let someone else drive for an hour so I can get a better feel of the cars. The 5 Series is an outstanding platform (All generations) for driving experience. I love my 540 6mt, but I also enjoy my other 2 5 series generations, especially on road trips, such an outstanding feel. My E39 is a bit soft, and I was able to really feel it while riding in the back seat. Upon inspection, I found all the shocks are leaking. The E39 is the Ultimate BMW IMHO, it hits all the marks for me, Ill be adding an M5 eventually, it is still my Dream car.. E39 M5 or F10 M5 by the end of 2024..
I have an E39 Motor Sport...It is the best car I have ever owned, bar none...Keep yours...I have owned mine for 2 years now and like you look at other cars sometimes...I have considered a Mercedes and also Audi, there is absolutely nothing wrong with them but in the end I kept coming back to my BMW...Its the shape of the body, just perfect... In my opinion there is nothing out there that will give you as much pleasure as your E39...Of course that is only my opinion and I respect the choices that others have made...Mine is a 525i Auto, 2002, Topaz Blue and I love it to pieces... Sure there are minor issues like the LED display on the dash is faulty, but I have a fix for that...$35.00 on EBay...So what, it's nothing and I enjoy working on it. I wish I could post a photo for you, but TH-cam doesn't allow that so as not to slow things down... Oh and by the way I can get 45 MPG on the Motorway and 28 MPG around the city unless I floor it, which I do sometimes just to enjoy the car a bit more...
It sounds like a simple request until you throw in the manual transmission requirement then you may already have the perfect DD if we don’t mind giving up the RWD driving dynamics for pure comfort and reliability have you considered a 3rd gen TL type S. Everything else in that category is pretty much AT only or you have to as you put it go into the “Boy Racer” category of vehicles in order to keep a manual transmission in the mix or even some Unicorn type vehicles like a Mazda speed 6 ect.
Wow...the replacement daily drivers you talk about is my about identical to mine. Had an E46 about a year now but the V8 manual in your car is calling my name!
I'm a huge BMW fan and drive an E60 , but the E39 is one of my favorites and yours is just simply amazing! Definitely keep it. Also 19.6 mpg is very good (gotta love manuals)
You just earned a subscribe for not selling the E39! Putting the spare tires on the backseat for only one drive is really a very minor annoyance compared to the driving experience of E39.
The only car which can be a worthy successor to this beauty by my opinion is AMG E55 '06 which hopefully will be my next car. My previous dream car was e39 M5 but since there are extremely expensive and quite rare already I decided to move to e55. According to the tones of reviews I have watched about the Merc - it is pretty reliable car but let see - I will definitely make few videos once I buy it. Good luck with your channel - I really like it!
I have the Koni Yellows on my TSX and your description of the feel perfectly summarizes my experience as well. The guys at the tuning shop I use told me that on heavier cars the Konis have that feel, they are perfect for smaller platforms but once you get heavier the yellows are meh ( I wish I would have talked to them about the Konis before I bought them, proper coil overs going in next year) As far as other daily drivers, I have a first gen manual TSX and its a great commuter. You can also find Acura ILXs in manuals, but they are rare. They are both like a grown up version of an SI. I enjoy your videos, keep it up! Cheers.
I feel the same way you do when it comes to my 2011 335i Msport convertible with the Msport package! It takes care of all my driving needs! Just turned to 60,000 miles, and it looks and drives like new! Outside of a tune, there's nothing much I want to do to it! Put 19 inch black M performance wheels staggered on it, and a rear spoiler, and it's bangin! The black grill Made the front look real aggressive! So like you, I'm cool!
What’s crazy to think is hat 15 years later, there isn’t a car that really ticks all the boxes like this car. I say absolutely keep the e39, it will go up in value, and it’s a very enjoyable car. The only other car in my opinion that would be fun, comfortable, and reliable/cheap to run would be a 4 door e36 m3 manual. It’s very fun, can be made comfortable with a suspension overhaul, and it’s so cheap to run, very reliable, and they last forver. That’s coming from a prior e39 540 owner that’s how an e36 m3 owner (other fun car is e92 m3!!!)
I love the e39, but mind you, the timing chain guides love to grenade on these cars, so I’d highly recommend you replace them with metal ones and you’ll be set. Other than oil leaks and timing chain guides the m62tu is pretty reliable
I bought my Topaz Blue 03 M-sport about 3 years ago and opted for a full coil over system for a little over 1k instead of replacing the stock sport suspension. It came out stiffer but I'm enjoying the ride as I tend to travel mountain roads on the weekend. I plan on keeping mine for the long term, (Especially given the amount I've put into it past the 8k buying price is nearly double what you have) as there's very little that's newer that doesn't require a whole suite of special tools to work on, still has a manual, and keeps the electronics to a minimum.
A little mechanical love to an early 2000's BMW and its worth keeping. I've had my 02 BMW 325i E46 sedan for almost three years. The best car I bought for less than $4K with 94k miles. It may have had little problems my first couple months like vacuum leaks, front struts/suspension components needing replacement, cooling system overhaul at 100k miles and changing oil/filters every 5k miles. They maybe intimidating for its maintenance, but they are worth the money to drive.
The only replacement I could imagine with your check boxes is a Audi S6 Avant (second generation C5) V8 4.2L 6 speed manual. I have e39 touring and I love it! Thanks for the heads up videos about the overall costs of your maintenance. Safe drive!
It's not gonna be the most reliable daily driver for sure and it won't be the most economical car, but man this car gives you all the power in smooth, subtle and comfortable package!
Those are very cool cars. Mines a bit rough because the mileage is high but I got it very cheap. It taught me how to drive manual, therefore it’s been worth it.
I imagine the fuel costs would be the biggest expense for this car. Here in the UK the road tax and price of petrol is massive for a 4L engine like this, it's a real shame too because it's a great car and I'd love one.
keep 540, but im an e39 guy so it's a little bias! I suggest adding a hitch and getting a trailer so you don't have to get car dirty and you can carry much more. If you are a real G you would get a wagon and swap it to manual but gaging the way you are, no offence, i dont think youd want to do that. I would definitely consider a CTSV overall but hey, what ever you think.
How many miles did it have on it when you bought it? 10k miles + $3500 is kinda shitty. I know BMWs are luxary/sport cars but it still sucks. I've been thinking about getting my first Beamer as a daily in Indiana but repair costs spook me a little.
It’s tough man I simultaneously feel like it’s a shame this car can’t have its OEM hardware considering that’s what it’s all about with the 540 but tmaf the same time I feel like it deserves the upgrade...but only if it can be given without sacrifice. In all I think I would consider swapping and selling the ayellows maybe? Or we can blow up the Billstein Customer service’s e-mail until they team up with you and sponsor a video.
E60 550i with a manual. They are dirty cheap. Like under $10k, at dealers. I personally love the e60 styling, and I could definitely see them holding and even going up in value as more people come around to the design but don't want to deal with the cost of the v10 m5. I don't think the NA v8s had the same issues that the later turbo motors do, and I don't remember my dad having any problems during his leases (he had two of them, both manual). Honestly if I wanted a second BMW as a daily that would be a great one to buy.
At idle I think these have the smoothest running internal combustion engines ever made. In my E38 740i you cannot tell the engine is running at idle, it's weird to me for a 90's V8
Yes I dont see what else would be a better replacement at that price value etc. Seriously this has a comfort plus sportiness. Quality of looks ride etc.
I put 740il e38 front seats in my e39, I could sleep in the hot sun in my 540 now. Massage & heated 18 way seats make for a real road trip bruiser cruiser.
Just wait till it's timing-chain guide time! I just got my 2nd e39 540 and 1 week after getting it the guides went. (140k) :\ Also, make sure you keep the main chain tensioner in good condition. It can extend the life of your timing chains.
This is an interesting suggestion. A bit older but parts shouldn't be an issue to get. I assume it's a lighter, more tossable chassis. Might have all the comfort with just a bit more fun factor. There is an e34 M5 review on TH-cam, I think it's on a channel called "carwow". Really enjoyed it and made me interested in the E34 chassis. @Zygrene check it out if you see this!
@@joseavitia1054 is it really? That's insane, I had no idea. To me it just looks like it's a lighter/smaller car. Well in that case it's hard to say if the E34 will be better. I just assumed it would be lighter/more analog/driver focused. I would think the E34 M5 has better steering/dynamics, but if you're going to an M car might as well be an E39 M5. And suppose there's a reason for the E39's cult following whereas the E34 isn't given as many accolades.
Thanks for the video! A buddy of mine has the 540i msport too in black. His model year is 1999 though . The guinea pig year for the engine. He may sell it next year, to which I'd definitely be interested in buying as a daily driver car. Like you though I want the estate/touring style.
Bwahahah! Spare parts for Bimmers is abslutely ridiculously expensive over there in the US. I bought a couple of Sachs dampers (Sachs is the original supplier fyi, fittet to the cars on the assembly line) from Germany for 240 USD. And i bought them when my local currency was weak against the Euro. Also did a complete overhaul of the cooling system (radiator, exp tank, pump, thermostat, fan, fan clutch etc) for around 1000 usd. All OE or OEM parts from Behr, hella, etc.
Ok - this is a year and half later... I'm looking at a 540i, and so am checking out videos. I had to play it twice to hear what I thought I heard. Did you say nearly $12k in one year? I hope not...
I'd keep it. They're are plenty of plug in tuners that will eliminate the sluggish throttle response. I used the Jim Confirti Shark injector and it got rid of completely.
After selling my 01 e38, I bought a 01 e39 540i sport. Then I found out about the differences between it and a 03 Msport. So I bought it. Now I have two 540i's both with under 85k mi. My 01 is for sale and I'm keeping the 03. Fun car.
A bmw 540 with a manual gearbox, hope you didn't sell it! I don't think the e39 540i was available in AUS with a manual gearbox. Sadly. The e39 is a timeless design, one that doesn't seem anywhere near as old as it actually is. My daily driver is a '96 e39 535i, with the 3.5lt v8 and 5spd sports auto (left knee injury means I can't daily drive a manual anymore), I have the cats fit still, but deleted the first mufflers, kept the factory, ummm, i guess it's an expansion chamber just before the diff, and fit a Remus rear sports muffler. It has a wicked note to it, not too loud when cruising, but you can hear it's a v8. Bury your right foot, the little bmw v8 wakes up and absolutely "screams" when it gets near the redline. It also returns fairly reasonable fuel economy around 11/100 average for me, I drive it an average of 1000kms a week (about 600 miles a week). It's almost as good of an exhaust note as my '93 Ford Falcon Xr8 manual sedan with a worked 5.0 v8. My weekend warrior car.
Especially afrer all the money spent on suspension, just drive the 540i. It's a great vehicle and now you can enjoy it. I personally would look Lexus GS430 for comfort but it's not a manual, ect. I think you got the best for what your needs are.
I would say 2006-2008 1st Generation TSX Manual you can have both worlds DD and track or 07-08 TL-S 6 Speed Manual. I mean with all the money your blowing on that BMW in maintenance costs alone your DD should never be a money pit.
Rain Santiago The TSX just doesn’t have enough pull imo. K20’s are great for what they are but at the end of the day it’s a 4 cylinder FWD Accord (albeit JDM/EDM). The 08 TL-S is much more like it but he’d still be throwing money down the drain on transmission rebuilds.
You could consider going the opposite route and looking at the cayenne or whatever the name of the first 4 door wagony looking thing was, I saw Mannie Fresh in one here in New Orleans like a decade ago and got his autograph in the parking lot so they have to be pretty cheap now
Don't even think about selling it. A well-maintaned 03 540i/6 m-sport is gonna appreciate in value, we don't even have a single one of the 03 msport here in sweden.
How do you manage to only rack up 10k in 1 year in Cali? I'm in a large crater shaped valley in Las Vegas and rack up over 15k a year w/o excessive road trips, and I work in an office..
Good summary of a great car. I would suggest to keep it, but if you need more practicality, how about B8 S4 Avant with manual. Are you getting those in US? I have it now for over a year (with S-tronic) and its great.
the shocks will feel stiffer even if you got oem because youre were leaking before, and on top of that old shocks are weaker, and thats what you got used to. interesting review though. thumbs up
If you do decide to sell it someday, give it to me when I get my funds up lol. I currently own an E39 525i but its eating away most of my money cus it has been so beaten by previous owners so repair costs has been a headache.
found one of these while looking for a new daily.. Initially, I figured I had found a clean vehicle with potential.. Once I began to Google the '03 540i E39 w/ M Sport trim, I began getting as giddy as a school girl.. Hope to pick it up today, and I'm not sure I'll ever let it go.. After reading Jalopnik, it seems like I found a diamond in the rough.. (Unfortunately, as you mentioned in the video, only proficient "jewelers" would be able to notice)
Totally agree . You won't find a better car for what you've done.. Rim's are Beautiful as the car . Santa Clara? How can you have a home , family , and the car's... God bless you bro. Peace.. Sacramento..
These were quite possibly one of the the best looking BMW's ever.
Definitely the best. Best interior too. I’m a fan of the F10 and G30 interiors but the E39 matches their superb material quality, has an even more rock-solid build quality, and has IMO superior styling- timeless with no screens.
Hell NO!! The E39 is a keeper!! Too bad we don't have a lot of 540i here in Italy
Americans are really spoiled with manual transmission cars, here in Chile I can only find automatic BMW with any engine worth owning, all manuals are base model diesels.
I agree i such a great car also in my country they are pretty rare, i got an early 96 one, they are pretty bullet proof if you maintenance it the right way, i spent like 400 dollar on repair's in 2 year's on the drive train and like a 200 dollar's on oil change's and an new battery! it got 250k mile's on it and i rip the hell out of it when it's warme'd up, one thing you should look for an non vano's one, the m62b44 without the (tu) are much better mine is still on the first chain belt!
i agree
Aleksandr Kamarov lol, america is the land of automatics dude...
If you sell it, then the only thing you can do without a massive amount of people hating you is to buy an e39 M5.
Def keep your 540 man. Dope whip.
540i with manual... keep it man..
I just bought my first bmw. It's a 03 540i msport and I'm so in love with it. I have 130,000 on it and figured out the cost in maintenance is still cheaper than having a car payment and you still can't get the quality from any other car in that price range. So I say keep it for now and watch the value go up
How is it going now? How much have you spent so far
@@delatroy he had to sell his laptop
bro spot on you still got it they worth hella money now
@@delatroy it’s still going strong at 147,000. Only had to change The coolant reservoir because it cracked. I just bought the timing chain guides and seal kit for a summer project.
E39 is a true legend. Keep it
The E39 is the best man, I sold mine, and it wasn't long before I regretted it and bought another, and another
Would you rate the e39 530d? Looking at getting my first bmw and my hearts set on a 525,528i or a 530d. Argh so tempting.
These cars are going up in value every year, the longer you keep it the more it will be worth. Hang onto it, keep it good shape and you will have a solid return on your investment, and then some! Plus the E39 is a lot more reliable than many of the more recent BMWs which suffer from over-complexity and electronic issues.
Both my 99 and my 00 540i MTechs have folding rear seats. They are not common and I don't know of any face lifted 01-03 models with folding rear seats.
I'm pretty much only willing to let go of my 540i for an M5 for a daily sedan. Glad you're holding on to yours.
Also I love the wrinkle black valve covers! I just painted mine last week.
I'd love to check out your car in person. I'm in San Jose also.
My 03 MTech has folding rear seats. I didn't know they were rare.
Keep it - your not going to find something like this for your price range. Yes folding seats is an option. I do have a set of ultra low mileage shocks and springs off an M5 if the koni are not doing it for you.
The install is a PITA, otherwise I'd take you up on that!
It's really not that bad lol
Dude - I bought my '03 M-sport as my 'fun' car, did some work over a couple years to catch up on deferred maintenance then thought it was time to sell as usual and move on to the next thing. Well, it's been 6 years now, 8 years total, and she's still in the garage. It's a hard car to replace, it really is the perfect balance of ride, comfort, utility, performance and I also enjoy that relative anonymity you mentioned. Every other car does one of these better, but at the expense of another thing. It's also easy to work on (contrary to popular belief) and well documented with great parts availability.
We have a similar overall outlook on the car, where we differ is that I would not use mine as a DD. Prefer to keep the miles off it and also it's that much more enjoyable to jump into after driving my reliable but rattletrap DD. I also got the Koni yellows, and find them to be just right - guess it's a taste thing.
Regarding the cooling system - replace your coolant with waterless coolant and all the BMW cooling system issues will disappear. There is also a mod to put a cooler thermostat (from the M60) on the M62, M62TU which eliminates knock and I imagine lowers cooling system pressure which would mitigate much of the problem. You can easily search these online for more info, this is getting long. ;)
"You can easily search these online for more info, this is getting long. ;)"
Very few cars inspire their owners the way the E39 does - to film, to write about and most importantly, I ALWAYS see E39 540i owners giving great how-to fix solutions when they see another E39 owner with issues. Rarely do you see a car inspire the owners to help other owners for the love of the model.
The E39 540i is a unique vehicle, the most important point you made is that other cars tick the boxes in one or two categories better than the 540i, but I challenge you to show me another car that brings all of them together in such a beautiful balance. There's only one car that comes to mind immediately and thats the E39 M5, lol. The only way to best the E39 is with another E39!
There is at least one Auto Repair Shop I know of that specializes in not just BMWs but specifically the E39 Source, in San Diego. You won't find a Mercedes Repair Shop named the W211 Source!
And seeing the current prices for 540i Post-LCI M-Sports... I bet this dude is regretting the sale of this car!
Reality is that you are finding reasons not to sell e39, and you shouldn't. You are in love with this car and you should be. Bavarian perfection from Munchen! Great car!
E39 is one of the best cars ever.
I've got a very odd ball 2000 540i. It is a 6 speed, M Sport suspension, DINAN Tune, Upgraded intake and throttle body, also an M5 LSD (factory ordered). Black with tan interior, Non M sport wheel (heated), heated comfort seats. After I bought it, I added a Megan Racing front strut brace, did a full cat and resonator delete and 3" exhaust all the way back to a dual 3" tip muffler I got from Summit racing after the custom Y pipe I put in. Full ultra white halos and HIDs in front and euro tailights in the rear. Running staggered 19's , 285/35 rears and 245/40 fronts. It hooks up like a monster, drives like it's on Rails, and will almost keep up my my brothers F10 x drive 550i.
E39 M5 would have been the perfect step up!
Alternative:
IS350
First gen TSX
E90/E91 335I?
Any of these will be step down in cylinder count lol
Keeping E39 540I sounds good
IS350 is auto only? TSX is nice but a little boring, I'd rather have a TL-S. 335i still has maintenance issues and would be a downsize. Hmmmm... This is tough.
Zygrene I would go for the TL-S 6 Speed because of rarity factor there very difficult to source out and would be a nice video to share with viewers again. M
@@Zygrene I think the manual tl-s would be hard to find. Would be cool all Honda line up. Only downside fwd but for daily who cares
Zygrene 535i? Manual
They are pretty rat, but if you got the money, i should put an supercharger on the 540i that will push almost the same power on the wheel's as an stock m5 for less money! An decent low mile age m5 are pretty expensive this day's, it's still almost the same car if you look to option's there aren't that much difference's, only a bigger engine and an stiffer suspension and an lsd diff, which also was an option on the 540i manual, because they share the same manual 6 speed gearbox, this car's are getting more rare/expensive day by day, it isn't the right moment to sell the e39 believe me i bought mine 2 year's ago for 4.000 dollar in my country, now you can get an decent one for minimal 8k for an good non ruste'd one, the price just did double in just 2 years!..
I love this car , I wana buy one , they are the last truly reliable well made BMW. Timeless design , and a lovely v8
I put the Bilesteins on mine (a 2002) and they were wonderful. The handling was more precise and the ride was a bit more firm, but due to the Bilsteins' excellent control, the ride was less fatiguing on long trips! Re. the steering, getting all the mounts/arms/etc. changed, as you did, shows its marvelous stability and communicability--better than my E90's!
A daily should not be a headache, sell it and get something that you like so much that you’d never even have to think about asking for the internet’s advice on whether or not you should keep it.
You're right, but I haven't figured out what that car is yet
Zygrene Have you tried something like the last Pontiac GTO’s or G8’s? They’ve recently captured my attention.
Another thing that might fit your criteria is the new MT Genesis G70, won’t be able to get the top engine with MT as of yet, but I’m quite curious myself as to what it can do.
It's difficult because when you're looking for a car in this category it is compromised by default. Really easy to fall in love with a balls out sports car because all it has to do is be fast and engaging and full of passion and what not. But when you're trying to make a car that handles well and feels connected to the road, while at the same time insulating you from too much road noise/harshness, seating you in a comfortable position, blowing cold air on your ass etc. You end up with a car that is a great all rounder, but not truly excellent at any one thing. So I can understand not being completely in love with the car because you never think "this car is INCREDIBLE at x" it's just pretty good at everything.
To fit into the category the car is going to have to be somewhat "meh" and hard to be completely attached to. This could easily be the best car for what he wants. Just my 2¢ though, I can see where you're coming from.
If you sell it I will hunt you down. Best car ever made!! Wish I still had my 540
These videos made me buy a 540i for my first car
jeremy kinman how is it going? I’m looking at one for my first car too
bobagopaaa 29days till I get my license
@Peter King Hey,any updates? You prob got your license,congrats!
Me too! Looking forward to getting one as my first car
Btw ended up getting a e46 325i
Dude keep the 540M I have just a 02 540iA and man they’re amazing and super rare here in Missouri I’ve owned it for the last 15 years.
hey how is that car? i am getting one for $9k and it has 196,000 km and all timing chain is done
spot on i have a 1998 bmw 540i pre vanos v8 6 speed manual and none of those cars could replace your e39 its the best!
I have a 2001 525i, it’s fun to drive but the little 2.5 litre inline 6 is a bit too small for a car that heavy , I’m going to try to sort out the small issues, sell it, & try to buy a 540i with a manual tranny, with the m sport package ☺️
Cigavette how did all that go?
GhettoMist almost done sorting out the issues & it’ll be ready to sell 👍
Haha, yea I have a 540i manual m sport. Same exact car except mine has sports seats. It’s pretty peppy. I got it for 600$ though.
GhettoMist oh wow, did it have any major issues ?
I owned 3 x e39. First bougt by unintentionally, but I fell in love with those. Than I moved to e60, regretting it hard. Those e39 actually ultimate driving machines for everyday use, also to feel a bit power when needed, but comfort and quality are top, still so many years later not many cars can compare.
I'm sure someone already said so, but folding rear seats ARE available on 540i's. Mine is a 2000 M-Sport like yours, and the folding rear seats have opening mechanisms (each with a key lock) that feel extremely solid and practical, and when you close the seats, they sound as solid as the doors. Like everything else: bulletproof.
Also, the wagon does come in a 540iT. Hoping for another video on your 540i. Thanks.
keep it, the e39 is a really good car.
I have recently realized that riding passenger, both in the front and rear, and I found I am able to feel things suspension wise with a better understanding of the complete ride feel. I have been making it a point to let someone else drive for an hour so I can get a better feel of the cars. The 5 Series is an outstanding platform (All generations) for driving experience. I love my 540 6mt, but I also enjoy my other 2 5 series generations, especially on road trips, such an outstanding feel. My E39 is a bit soft, and I was able to really feel it while riding in the back seat. Upon inspection, I found all the shocks are leaking. The E39 is the Ultimate BMW IMHO, it hits all the marks for me, Ill be adding an M5 eventually, it is still my Dream car.. E39 M5 or F10 M5 by the end of 2024..
I say keep it, you already put money into it making it "new" feeling, its rare too. Get rid of it it there's a huge repair cost.
I have an E39 Motor Sport...It is the best car I have ever owned, bar none...Keep yours...I have owned mine for 2 years now and like you look at other cars sometimes...I have considered a Mercedes and also Audi, there is absolutely nothing wrong with them but in the end I kept coming back to my BMW...Its the shape of the body, just perfect...
In my opinion there is nothing out there that will give you as much pleasure as your E39...Of course that is only my opinion and I respect the choices that others have made...Mine is a 525i Auto, 2002, Topaz Blue and I love it to pieces...
Sure there are minor issues like the LED display on the dash is faulty, but I have a fix for that...$35.00 on EBay...So what, it's nothing and I enjoy working on it. I wish I could post a photo for you, but TH-cam doesn't allow that so as not to slow things down...
Oh and by the way I can get 45 MPG on the Motorway and 28 MPG around the city unless I floor it, which I do sometimes just to enjoy the car a bit more...
Sometimes you keep searching, but don’t realize you’re already in what you’re looking for.
Keep it please!
I'm from the Bay Area (SJ), you should review my IS350 one day!
Shoot me an email! zygrene@gmail.com
Shot by Kumar that ain’t the bay, that’s the Silicon Valley
It sounds like a simple request until you throw in the manual transmission requirement then you may already have the perfect DD if we don’t mind giving up the RWD driving dynamics for pure comfort and reliability have you considered a 3rd gen TL type S. Everything else in that category is pretty much AT only or you have to as you put it go into the “Boy Racer” category of vehicles in order to keep a manual transmission in the mix or even some Unicorn type vehicles like a Mazda speed 6 ect.
Wow...the replacement daily drivers you talk about is my about identical to mine. Had an E46 about a year now but the V8 manual in your car is calling my name!
F31 m sport, best looking wagon for sure!
Varpem 5 series look wayy better. 3-series are for women and handicaps!
I'm a huge BMW fan and drive an E60 , but the E39 is one of my favorites and yours is just simply amazing! Definitely keep it.
Also 19.6 mpg is very good (gotta love manuals)
5 years later, and I am also a proud owner of a 540i 6 speed :). Well actually I got it like 2 years ago, what an awesome car honestly..
You just earned a subscribe for not selling the E39! Putting the spare tires on the backseat for only one drive is really a very minor annoyance compared to the driving experience of E39.
The only car which can be a worthy successor to this beauty by my opinion is AMG E55 '06 which hopefully will be my next car. My previous dream car was e39 M5 but since there are extremely expensive and quite rare already I decided to move to e55. According to the tones of reviews I have watched about the Merc - it is pretty reliable car but let see - I will definitely make few videos once I buy it. Good luck with your channel - I really like it!
I have the Koni Yellows on my TSX and your description of the feel perfectly summarizes my experience as well. The guys at the tuning shop I use told me that on heavier cars the Konis have that feel, they are perfect for smaller platforms but once you get heavier the yellows are meh ( I wish I would have talked to them about the Konis before I bought them, proper coil overs going in next year)
As far as other daily drivers, I have a first gen manual TSX and its a great commuter. You can also find Acura ILXs in manuals, but they are rare. They are both like a grown up version of an SI.
I enjoy your videos, keep it up! Cheers.
I feel the same way you do when it comes to my 2011 335i Msport convertible with the Msport package! It takes care of all my driving needs! Just turned to 60,000 miles, and it looks and drives like new! Outside of a tune, there's nothing much I want to do to it! Put 19 inch black M performance wheels staggered on it, and a rear spoiler, and it's bangin! The black grill Made the front look real aggressive! So like you, I'm cool!
What’s crazy to think is hat 15 years later, there isn’t a car that really ticks all the boxes like this car. I say absolutely keep the e39, it will go up in value, and it’s a very enjoyable car. The only other car in my opinion that would be fun, comfortable, and reliable/cheap to run would be a 4 door e36 m3 manual. It’s very fun, can be made comfortable with a suspension overhaul, and it’s so cheap to run, very reliable, and they last forver. That’s coming from a prior e39 540 owner that’s how an e36 m3 owner (other fun car is e92 m3!!!)
I love the e39, but mind you, the timing chain guides love to grenade on these cars, so I’d highly recommend you replace them with metal ones and you’ll be set. Other than oil leaks and timing chain guides the m62tu is pretty reliable
I bought my Topaz Blue 03 M-sport about 3 years ago and opted for a full coil over system for a little over 1k instead of replacing the stock sport suspension. It came out stiffer but I'm enjoying the ride as I tend to travel mountain roads on the weekend. I plan on keeping mine for the long term, (Especially given the amount I've put into it past the 8k buying price is nearly double what you have) as there's very little that's newer that doesn't require a whole suite of special tools to work on, still has a manual, and keeps the electronics to a minimum.
A little mechanical love to an early 2000's BMW and its worth keeping. I've had my 02 BMW 325i E46 sedan for almost three years. The best car I bought for less than $4K with 94k miles. It may have had little problems my first couple months like vacuum leaks, front struts/suspension components needing replacement, cooling system overhaul at 100k miles and changing oil/filters every 5k miles. They maybe intimidating for its maintenance, but they are worth the money to drive.
The only replacement I could imagine with your check boxes is a Audi S6 Avant (second generation C5) V8 4.2L 6 speed manual. I have e39 touring and I love it! Thanks for the heads up videos about the overall costs of your maintenance. Safe drive!
It's not gonna be the most reliable daily driver for sure and it won't be the most economical car, but man this car gives you all the power in smooth, subtle and comfortable package!
Weird to jump onto a random video that's 3+ years old and be like "oh, that's the 87 onramp. That's 7th Street. That's Orchard Parkway."
Those are very cool cars. Mines a bit rough because the mileage is high but I got it very cheap. It taught me how to drive manual, therefore it’s been worth it.
I imagine the fuel costs would be the biggest expense for this car. Here in the UK the road tax and price of petrol is massive for a 4L engine like this, it's a real shame too because it's a great car and I'd love one.
keep 540, but im an e39 guy so it's a little bias! I suggest adding a hitch and getting a trailer so you don't have to get car dirty and you can carry much more. If you are a real G you would get a wagon and swap it to manual but gaging the way you are, no offence, i dont think youd want to do that. I would definitely consider a CTSV overall but hey, what ever you think.
That mclaughlin exit...I take that exit everyday. 3500 in a year? I don't think I've spent half that on my si in 5 years
Ah yes, the FG2 I reviewed years ago! Launch control was fun haha
All these need is a rear sway bar and an LSD and you've got yourself a fun car! 👍
How many miles did it have on it when you bought it? 10k miles + $3500 is kinda shitty. I know BMWs are luxary/sport cars but it still sucks. I've been thinking about getting my first Beamer as a daily in Indiana but repair costs spook me a little.
It had 112.8k when I bought it a year ago
Had mine for about 3 years now, all I've had to do was replace the battery and and oil changes.
Yeah. Skidoor or folding rear seats are an option
It’s tough man I simultaneously feel like it’s a shame this car can’t have its OEM hardware considering that’s what it’s all about with the 540 but tmaf the same time I feel like it deserves the upgrade...but only if it can be given without sacrifice. In all I think I would consider swapping and selling the ayellows maybe? Or we can blow up the Billstein Customer service’s e-mail until they team up with you and sponsor a video.
A Bilstein sponsored video would be fantastic
Keep it man
I Love the 540i M-Sport:)
E60 550i with a manual. They are dirty cheap. Like under $10k, at dealers.
I personally love the e60 styling, and I could definitely see them holding and even going up in value as more people come around to the design but don't want to deal with the cost of the v10 m5. I don't think the NA v8s had the same issues that the later turbo motors do, and I don't remember my dad having any problems during his leases (he had two of them, both manual). Honestly if I wanted a second BMW as a daily that would be a great one to buy.
Ryan Murray those v8 valve stem seals are junk
I have an e60 545i and the valve seals killed me recently. Aside from that it’s a lot of fun but issues come up here and there
That is ugly compared to E39, especially those teardrop front lights...
At idle I think these have the smoothest running internal combustion engines ever made. In my E38 740i you cannot tell the engine is running at idle, it's weird to me for a 90's V8
I have a 97 540i (non m or M sport) and I love it. It’s my new project car. Next car is hopefully an M sport 540i or an M e39
are we really going to ignore the fact that those two dude in the background disappeared at 5:35
Yes I dont see what else would be a better replacement at that price value etc. Seriously this has a comfort plus sportiness. Quality of looks ride etc.
I put 740il e38 front seats in my e39, I could sleep in the hot sun in my 540 now. Massage & heated 18 way seats make for a real road trip bruiser cruiser.
Just wait till it's timing-chain guide time! I just got my 2nd e39 540 and 1 week after getting it the guides went. (140k) :\ Also, make sure you keep the main chain tensioner in good condition. It can extend the life of your timing chains.
Sell and buy e34 540i mate. In 10 years time you'll be the only one person in USA with such an old school drifter
This is an interesting suggestion. A bit older but parts shouldn't be an issue to get. I assume it's a lighter, more tossable chassis. Might have all the comfort with just a bit more fun factor. There is an e34 M5 review on TH-cam, I think it's on a channel called "carwow". Really enjoyed it and made me interested in the E34 chassis. @Zygrene check it out if you see this!
SalRosenberg47 actually it’s a heavier chassis
@@joseavitia1054 is it really? That's insane, I had no idea. To me it just looks like it's a lighter/smaller car. Well in that case it's hard to say if the E34 will be better. I just assumed it would be lighter/more analog/driver focused. I would think the E34 M5 has better steering/dynamics, but if you're going to an M car might as well be an E39 M5. And suppose there's a reason for the E39's cult following whereas the E34 isn't given as many accolades.
I might get flak for this but I think the E39 body style looks better than E34
E34 is lighter than e39. It's got much much more lighter tail which in that case swings and can drift much better
Thanks for the video! A buddy of mine has the 540i msport too in black. His model year is 1999 though . The guinea pig year for the engine. He may sell it next year, to which I'd definitely be interested in buying as a daily driver car. Like you though I want the estate/touring style.
I used to have an 01 540i M Sport manual and now I drive a G37 S Sedan. They do come in manual option.
Bwahahah! Spare parts for Bimmers is abslutely ridiculously expensive over there in the US. I bought a couple of Sachs dampers (Sachs is the original supplier fyi, fittet to the cars on the assembly line) from Germany for 240 USD. And i bought them when my local currency was weak against the Euro.
Also did a complete overhaul of the cooling system (radiator, exp tank, pump, thermostat, fan, fan clutch etc) for around 1000 usd. All OE or OEM parts from Behr, hella, etc.
No that's like my dream car
Ok - this is a year and half later... I'm looking at a 540i, and so am checking out videos. I had to play it twice to hear what I thought I heard. Did you say nearly $12k in one year? I hope not...
That's including the price I paid for the car. I would roughly estimate maintenance costs of $5k/year for these cars based on personal experience.
Miss my 540/6 hard to find good one
Keep it! I have a same car, 2003 540i M-sport, manual. From the 600 total piece what came in US.
I'd keep it. They're are plenty of plug in tuners that will eliminate the sluggish throttle response. I used the Jim Confirti Shark injector and it got rid of completely.
After selling my 01 e38, I bought a 01 e39 540i sport. Then I found out about the differences between it and a 03 Msport. So I bought it. Now I have two 540i's both with under 85k mi. My 01 is for sale and I'm keeping the 03. Fun car.
If you have a 03 M sport only other choice is m5. But either one is a keeper
I vote for e39 M5. M car maintenance isn’t nearly as bad as people make it out to be. Especially since you have more than one car!
As much as I want an M5 for the driving experience, part of me likes that my M-Sport is stealthier and actually rarer. It makes no sense!
the only way anyone knows an e39 M5 is the badge! Literally the most understated M car BMW had ever made!
A bmw 540 with a manual gearbox, hope you didn't sell it! I don't think the e39 540i was available in AUS with a manual gearbox. Sadly. The e39 is a timeless design, one that doesn't seem anywhere near as old as it actually is.
My daily driver is a '96 e39 535i, with the 3.5lt v8 and 5spd sports auto (left knee injury means I can't daily drive a manual anymore), I have the cats fit still, but deleted the first mufflers, kept the factory, ummm, i guess it's an expansion chamber just before the diff, and fit a Remus rear sports muffler. It has a wicked note to it, not too loud when cruising, but you can hear it's a v8. Bury your right foot, the little bmw v8 wakes up and absolutely "screams" when it gets near the redline. It also returns fairly reasonable fuel economy around 11/100 average for me, I drive it an average of 1000kms a week (about 600 miles a week).
It's almost as good of an exhaust note as my '93 Ford Falcon Xr8 manual sedan with a worked 5.0 v8. My weekend warrior car.
Especially afrer all the money spent on suspension, just drive the 540i. It's a great vehicle and now you can enjoy it. I personally would look Lexus GS430 for comfort but it's not a manual, ect. I think you got the best for what your needs are.
02 540i 130k miles for 3k. Probably put around 1100$ in it but its been such a unique and more of a enjoyable car as a daily. At least imo.
rear fold down seats in the E39 were an option....rare though
Folding rear seats were an option. Also, manual 540i tourings do exist, in the UK at least
As a long time BMW owner it's simple; if you don't beat the shit out of it, it wont break.
whatt lol every stick bmw i have had and automatic sedan i have exclusively been beaten every day sliding sideways for years on end
Lovely car.... I'm actually planning to buy an e39 next week.
I would say 2006-2008 1st Generation TSX Manual you can have both worlds DD and track or 07-08 TL-S 6 Speed Manual. I mean with all the money your blowing on that BMW in maintenance costs alone your DD should never be a money pit.
Rain Santiago The TSX just doesn’t have enough pull imo. K20’s are great for what they are but at the end of the day it’s a 4 cylinder FWD Accord (albeit JDM/EDM). The 08 TL-S is much more like it but he’d still be throwing money down the drain on transmission rebuilds.
Sleepy FYI the TSX is a K24 not K20 slightly a bit torquier and double wishbone suspension.
Rain Santiago Oh right I forgot it had a K24
@@iheartgs400 first gen tsx are slow. Barely 15.9s stock. Too heavy for even a k24.
You could consider going the opposite route and looking at the cayenne or whatever the name of the first 4 door wagony looking thing was, I saw Mannie Fresh in one here in New Orleans like a decade ago and got his autograph in the parking lot so they have to be pretty cheap now
I'd rock a 1st gen Cayenne V6 manual, but so hard to find!
Don't even think about selling it. A well-maintaned 03 540i/6 m-sport is gonna appreciate in value, we don't even have a single one of the 03 msport here in sweden.
Yeah i understand on the looking back at the car 540ie39 when its clean as a whistle lol 😆 😅 😂
Volvo V70R 300hp
I wonder if it's possible to swap folding rear seats into E39s without them. It's annoying not having folding seats in my 528i
That coolant leak cost 10$ to fix and 5 min of work, check nathan diy garage
Slap a dinan tune on it and it'll change the response 😎
Golf R or the Gti mk6 gen
Keep it bro!
How do you manage to only rack up 10k in 1 year in Cali? I'm in a large crater shaped valley in Las Vegas and rack up over 15k a year w/o excessive road trips, and I work in an office..
Good summary of a great car. I would suggest to keep it, but if you need more practicality, how about B8 S4 Avant with manual. Are you getting those in US? I have it now for over a year (with S-tronic) and its great.
I think we have the B8 S4 Avant here but they aren't easy to find, and probably outside my price range
Probably a bit more expensive indeed. Maybe some other time. :)
the shocks will feel stiffer even if you got oem because youre were leaking before, and on top of that old shocks are weaker, and thats what you got used to. interesting review though. thumbs up
There is 540i manual wagon shape...and yeah rear foldable seat is an option
91StefaNs60 540i msport foldable seats isnt a option.
If you do decide to sell it someday, give it to me when I get my funds up lol. I currently own an E39 525i but its eating away most of my money cus it has been so beaten by previous owners so repair costs has been a headache.
found one of these while looking for a new daily.. Initially, I figured I had found a clean vehicle with potential.. Once I began to Google the '03 540i E39 w/ M Sport trim, I began getting as giddy as a school girl.. Hope to pick it up today, and I'm not sure I'll ever let it go.. After reading Jalopnik, it seems like I found a diamond in the rough.. (Unfortunately, as you mentioned in the video, only proficient "jewelers" would be able to notice)
Totally agree . You won't find a better car for what you've done..
Rim's are Beautiful as the car .
Santa Clara? How can you have a home , family , and the car's...
God bless you bro. Peace..
Sacramento..
i miss my e39 but at the same time I did not miss the issues.
Good job! :)