1998 BMW 5 Series 540 Sport (6 Speed) review from UK and Ireland
"The best car BMW have produced"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Since I took delivery of the car in March 05 the only problems I have had is a failed water pump, which I changed myself and working from experience only use genuine BMW parts! As its cheaper in the long run. (84 000miles).
A noisy cam follower for a day accompanied by a misfire? Disappeared on its own and up to now is still OK (80 000miles).
Annoying noise from the rear seat.
Resonating noise from the center section of the exhaust. Which I am not too bothered about as I am looking to change the system to a much less restricted version with sport catalytic converters.
General comments?
When I purchased the car, I had a performance chip upgrade fitted to it which gave it another 25hp, and also removed that annoying 155mph speed limiter too. It now accelerates to 62mph in under 6 seconds and carrys on to a top speed of I don't know what as it will go off the clock.
The handling is superb as it is also fitted with a set of 18" BBS split rims 245/45 front and 275/35 rears, which make all the difference.
It is fitted with a full M5 body kit and Schnitzer mirrors.
The interior is full leather sport trim, which is very comfortable and very supportive. And in my opinion this model BMW (E39) is the best they have produced to date, and that includes the latest model.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.4 Manual |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 74000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 86000 miles |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Passat |
| Date of Entry | 24th January, 2006 |