first, comparing MT versus auto trans---- my MT is probably cheaper and easier to maintain (had the clutch replaced as part of my purchase negotiations, and no other trans issues for 50,000km)

I don't have direct comparisons of my 545 versus a 530 or 535, but I can say that my maint experiences with the V8 seem common to others on this board---- namely, the weaknesses are the cooling system (new rad, water pump, expansion tank, hoses), and gaskets that wear out too fast---- valve cover, and other ones scattered about.

Those may be common issues amongst all E60's, along with suspension bushings that wear out.

But hey, my MT is miles better than an SMG (and in my opinion, any auto trans)

 

I'm with BMW monkey 100%. I was in the market for a e39 M5 when I stumbled across a 2008 535xi Wagon 6MT. It had been on the dealers lot in NH for months and the price kept dropping because no one wanted it up there. I'm in TN now but used to live in Maine and commute to Boston and the I95 traffic was brutal - manual trannies were the exception and not the rule. Anyway, I made a lowball offer to the dealer and he took it. I flew to NH and drove it 1200 miles home. Even though I paid less for it (compared to AT 5 series) I would have gladly paid more. My local independent BMW shop's owner offers to buy it from me every time I see him as do his techs. When it's time for me to sell, I'll make money. Follow your dream and find that manual tranny.

 

I suspect that young people today don't even know how to drive a stick. They certainly don't teach you that in driver's ed.

 

When talking to the seller, he said I was the only one out of half dozen or so callers that did not hang up when he mentioned the words clutch and manual transmission. Unfortunately that still did not bring the price down enough for the deal to make sense to me.

 

Although it can be done it really defeats the purpose of paying less than auto and drive a manual at the same time. Would probably be better to buy the manual at a higher price to begin with.

 

so in real life from real owners we hear that the manual 5's are selling for less and sit on the lot much longer, thus the better deal.

very tiny amount of people want this car in a manual. I love manuals and usually always go for the manual option, i had a new Audi A4 that had a 6 speed manual. And even then i still chose the 535 with an auto, because i was buying this car for a the daily grind. And the 6 speed didn't add anything in terms of performance, might have even took some away. Like keeping it in boost during shifts which you cant do with a manual. and the auto has a higher 3.46 final drive than the manual at 3.08.

 

I found a 2006 E61 6MT on Craigslist in FL last month with 22,000 miles. Yes, you read correctly. Ordered by a guy now in his mid-70's who developed eye trouble, and can't drive anymore. Still smells new. Needless to say, I bought it.

Took it to a local Indy shop to get the oil changed, mainly to check out the shop. They were amazed at the condition and low miles, and the fact it was a stick. I got a look underneath while it was on the lift, and its like new.

I'd previously looked at a 2008 (?) 535xi E61 6MT in Nashville, but it had a lot more miles, and for some reason, I just wasn't interested. Glad I waited. The 535 was faster, but I prefer the simpler engine, in this case.

 

You found a true unicorn! Congratulations on your find!

 

So then comes my next question. How much would you offer for a car like this:
2010 BMW 550i 6MT
M Sports package
40k miles
Well maintained with maintenance records.

And how much would you pay for the same car but with auto transmission?
Thanks.

 

Have you even looked at KBB for the zip code where the car is located? Between that and the price of other 550i selling in the nearby area will give you a ball park figure. Unless you have to have the manual then it's whatever price the seller is asking for.