What to get

[fmugur]

Although I like the power another thing to consider is the v8 will require the chain guides expensive job where the v6 doesn't.

[epdarks]

So you currently own an E36 and E39?

Aftermarket isn't nearly the same as either of those, but there are still plenty of ways to burn lots of cash on modifications.

Regardless of what model you buy, be sure to do a full PPI at a reputable independent BMW authorized shop.

If you can, buy from an enthusiast. Someone who took the time to do the appropriate preventative maintenance. Be prepared at any moment to sink 2-5k into the truck.

Owning and maintaining 3 BMWs sounds like a headache. Have you thought about selling one and getting into a 4.8, 4.6, E39 M5, etc?

[Lowblock]

Originally Posted by epdarks

So you currently own an E36 and E39?

Aftermarket isn't nearly the same as either of those, but there are still plenty of ways to burn lots of cash on modifications.

Regardless of what model you buy, be sure to do a full PPI at a reputable independent BMW authorized shop.

If you can, buy from an enthusiast. Someone who took the time to do the appropriate preventative maintenance. Be prepared at any moment to sink 2-5k into the truck.

Owning and maintaining 3 BMWs sounds like a headache. Have you thought about selling one and getting into a 4.8, 4.6, E39 M5, etc?

Yes, currently 95 M3, thats a garage queen, and an 98 540, both of them have been maintained very strictly since owning, I could sell the 540, but the M3 will remain. I should mention that the wife has an 09' 528xi as well, so there is actually 3 BMW's in the garage. The E60/1 is nice but it is not nearly as "connected" to the road as the others. Its great and safe for her and the kid's daily commute. I have owned as many as 5 at one point, they all serve their purpose, but I am kind of a "collector"

I will be getting a PPI before purchase but its always nice to know what to look for. There is a 02 4.4 near me silver on black with just under 100k. What is average mileage for these rigs? Should I be afraid of one with 100k on it? It is a very good deal and is straight as an arrow with a book of service records.

As far as the 4.6's are concernend I have read they are a nightmare when coming to the trans's is the same for the 3.0 and 4.4, a manual is not an option.

[Qsilver7]

Going with the 2000-03 (4.4)...as you indicate familiarity...keeps 2 of your vehicles with the same engine...thus oil changes and other similar upkeep/maintenance stuff means easy stocking of oil filters & oil etc and makes it easy to stock up when those shared items are on sale. If you purchase the 04-06 (4.4)...then that would be the N62 engine which means another type of oil filter kit and a bit more oil (takes 8.5 quarts).

Typo Correction: the 2004-06 V8s came with a 6-speed auto tranny (not 5 spd as printed in the info below)

[Lowblock]

Hey Q,

Thanks for posting that, been missing ya over at the bimmerforums e39 board......

[Qsilver7]

Thanks...and it will be nice to have you here if/when you add an e53 to your stable.

[upallnight]

Originally Posted by Lowblock

Hey Q,

Thanks for posting that, been missing ya over at the bimmerforums e39 board......

I was a poster on the E34 forum at Bimmerforums. You should read all the replies I received when I posted that I got an E53. You would have think that I brought an Audi. LOL

[epdarks]

Man, 4 BMWs... life is good!

100k miles is right around the time when everything starts to break. The trans is the big one. Suspension, cooling system, driveline... you know the drill.

I personally don't see a need to own an E39 and an X5. The X5 is basically a larger E39. If you want to go practical, you drive the X. If you want to go fast you jump in the 95 M3.

If you have the means to keep all 3 of your current BMWs and add an X5... then you don't/shouldn't have to do it on a budget. A cheap BMW is always an expensive BMW in the end. Spend a little more up front and pay for a good example.

Food for thought... there is no right answer...

[Lowblock]

Originally Posted by epdarks

If you have the means to keep all 3 of your current BMWs and add an X5... then you don't/shouldn't have to do it on a budget. A cheap BMW is always an expensive BMW in the end. Spend a little more up front and pay for a good example.

Food for thought... there is no right answer...

HAHA, ok, im not on a budget, the wife has put me on a budget....

I hear what your saying tho....and if it were up to me I would have more then 4 =)