As the topic title says, I am new to this forum and BMW's. I am considering purchasing either a 2003 540 or a 2004 545i as a third car. I am aware of the style change with the 2004 and generally prefer the newer models. Unfortunetly my budget won't allow for a later model. I plan to spend $ 10,000 to $ 20,000. Does anyone have an opinion on what to look for and what to avoid in either model. Reliability is a concern of mine.

Any advise would be appreciated.

Thanks


Lippinator

 

Get a 545

 

definitely get the 545 but with a 20K budget, you can look for the '06 model, a bit more power and IMHO, a little more reliable.

 

Thanks for the reply. Not sure what the IMHO is?

 

IMHO = in my honest opinion. We can also locate cars for you. It will be much easier if you have a wider selection so we can locate the perfect car.

 

Do you provide this as a service? Like attending auctions and such? I'll be in the market for a 535i in the near future thats why i ask

 

If I were you I would buy the 540i, with sport pig, all time classic. I've had an 02 530 sport and 05 545 and prefer the e39! Actually looking for a 540 now!

 

I had an 1998 e39 528i for 5 years and it was great, but after I bought my 545i I would never go back to an e39, just everything is nicer. better handling, obviously more power Love the iDrive, but I do miss the independent controls that the e39 had, on my 545 pretty much everything is controlled by iDrive.

They made 545's in late 2003, to end of 2005, then started the 550i series in 2006.

 

Thanks for everyones help. Bought a nice 2004 545i black with the sport package. 59,000 miles on it. Paid $ 17,500. Prestine condition.