When you've narrowed your decision down to one car and serious about buying it, it's probably a good idea to get a 3rd party pre-purchase inspection done (~$150). A good mechanic may notice some problems that you would've never seen. It can save you money in the long-run or just give you some peace-of-mind.

 

I purchased a MY 2005 545I auto, Sport with 67k on the dial. I also purchased a 3yr / 36k full warranty (after mrkt) for a nearly total sense of peace of mind.
The vehicle has been excellent. however, the insurance has covered about $4,000. for leaking brake booster, oil leaks from valve cover and chain covers. The car has the hydraulically controlled from anti sway system - oil leak equals $2.000.00 replaced.
This car is the ninth BMW for me in 40 years. the number one thing I look for in a prev. owned casr is the service records from the previous owner and dealer.

 

Yep. The first car I ever had was a '76 mustang (fox body) that my dad and I found in a barn and bought and rebuilt. It had a four speed, and - contrary to pretty much every American car - it handled amazingly well, and being 17 years old and driving the manual... I mean, being able to control the torque delivery, slinging through corners and dropping into 2nd on the exit...

Anyway, basically, I haven't been in love with a car since, and most cars without manual transmissions feel like the transportation equivalent of the free flip phone - sure, it's capable of phone calls, but it's just a functional device that you live with, not something that you connect to. That's what I'm looking for in a 550i. I don't want to be transported, I want to drive.

//philosophical crap over =)

Thanks again for the help! Now, I just have to figure out if I want to drive 5 hours to look at one that I found on auto trader.