Originally Posted by ChiefRider (Post 1222156)

So OP, are you still here?


FWIW, I'll add my thoughts/experience. IMO, new vehicles have sucked for quite some time. In 2022, they are far more expensive and horror stories about inoperable new cars I get from friends in the industry have reinforced my opinion that it is well worth keeping a good older vehicle in service.


The E53 for me has a great combination of ride, handling and utility. I wanted to minimize the number of problems to deal with so I purchased a well cared for 3.0 M54 with a manual transmission. After 6 years, I don't regret it. Maintenance has been no worse than anything else I have owned over the past 40 years, accounting for pros and cons. At over 200k miles, it still doesn't have any squeaks or rattles, and I still enjoy driving it. I couldn't replicate it in the current car market for 10x its present market price.


If you do buy one, follow forum advice on the weak spots for your chosen model by doing a thorough initial PM, and you should have a fine daily driver.