I am looking for 2004 or 2005 BMW 530i. I have already driven one and fallen in love with them.
Is there any major differences with the 2004 or 2005 model?
Are there any options that I should look for when getting this car?

Anything I should know about this car?

 

I'm considering sensible offers on my '06 if you're in the States, btw

To answer your question: there are no major differences bet '04 and '05. The major difference came in starting model year 2008 with the LCI (facelifted) version. I won't spoil the surprise for you, because I know you'll be reading lots of different things, using your search function and all

 

Well I have found a 2004 530i with 49,000 mls on it, and they are asking about $22,000.

V- I see you are in New York and I am in California and I would rather deal locally.

 

Like V said, there isn't much difference between 04 and 05, mechanically speaking. Although, you might want to consider options like ipod adapter, MP3 and bluetooth functionalities. Some earlier models might not have these or not be retrofitted. GL with your search and let us know when you get it.

 

Have a BMW dealership pull the service history on the car. It will let you know if there are any recurring problems with the car. You also may want to get an extended warranty.

 

There is no difference between the 04 and 05. I would just take a look at the options listed and go for the best deal.

In my opinion, $22K for an 04 530i with 49K miles is not a screaming deal. I bet you could get that car for 18-19, imho

 

The only differences for as stated above:
I have NAV, Aux port, and Bluetooth on my 2005 which I am not sure were available in 2004. Secondly, there is my inherent lack of confidence in the first year of a redesign - hence another reason I went with w 2005. I preferred that they get at least some of the bugs worked out first before I buy.

Good luck with your search and there are plenty of good cars out here in Cali for you to choose from.

 

I would suggest going with the 2005 because the 2004 was the first production year of the e60 so they did work out some bugs in the later models.

 

I only wanted to pay about under $20k for one of these, would I be able to get a 05 530i in excellent condition with a reasonable amount of miles for under $20k? I know I want heated seats as an option, it gets too cold in the mornings. Is the navigation really worth getting?

 

Honestly, you'd be better off buying an aftermarket Garmin GPS