1999 BMW 5 Series 523i SE Saloon review from UK and Ireland

Technically nothing, however I have noticed a few imperfections consistent with age.

Namely:

- Rear wheel arches are starting to bubble up with rust. This theme is consistent on the off-side sill.

- Front head light lenses mist up when it rains.

- Both wing mirrors have failed. They still operate as they should except the seals have gone, and due to the fact that they are oil filled, this oil has leaked and therefore the mirror appears to be orange to look at.

Having never been much of a BMW fan myself, I was pleasantly surprised when I drove my first mile in the 523i. Although I have only had the car 3 days now, I just can't put it away. I've spent most of the weekend washing and polishing her and shining the tyres, and it just makes me feel like I've hit the big time. This is one aesthetically pleasing car.

The engine sounds gloriously silky and powerful and really roars. When driving around town, it is whisper quite and well behaved, but soon leaps into action when you push on.

The suspension and handling is much better than my Volvo 850, and with the Pirelli P6000 tyres all round, it grips reassuringly through the twisty bits when you wanna have a bit of fun.

The seats are uber supportive and really comfortable, and the leather still looks good despite the fact the this car is a high miler.

Now as pleased as punch as I am with the car, I only wish it was as rust free as my 15 year old Volvo 850!

I'm gonna get the few minor gripes fixed, cos I want the car to be as mint as possible, but it is rather disappointing!

I just hope that the next 12 months are as trouble free as the last 3 years have been with my 850!