Subject: Re: 2003 530i OR 540i Author: jimcash : member since July, 2005 : 1895 posts Posted on: 2009-10-16 09:31:06

I have a 540 - love the car but there are drawbacks to the 8 against the 6.

The 6 has better overall balance - lighter in the front end and has the R&P steering (better feel).

You are correct that the 8 seems to have some more maintenance issues - especially the ones after 99my.

The 6 can also have some issues - you have to be very careful not to have an overheat condition so pay close attention to the cooling system.

If I were buying now I would go for the 530 (manual or auto as your preference)

When I bought there was only the 528 and there were so many functions and features that were available or standard on the 540 that were not available to the 528 that made the choice easy.

The later 530 changed most of that and has the high version of various systems (instruments, check system, climate control, etc). Not to mention the additional power and braking.

If you are comparing 2 individual cars and they happen to have similar accessory and trim levels that you like then the 530 would seem to be the better choice from my perspective. Better handling in the twisties and better fuel consumption.

Spend the difference in money on a "top grade" set of performance summer touring tires (and winter wheels if appropriate) and change the rear stabiliser bar to a 540 or M5 version.

Cheers
Jim Cash

• 2003 530i OR 540i - novabeem 2009-10-15 23:08:32 (435 views)
  • Re: 2003 530i OR 540i - jimcash 2009-10-16 09:31:06 (419 views)
    • Re: 2003 530i OR 540i - stetam 2009-10-17 15:24:22 (397 views)
      • Re: 2003 530i OR 540i - novabeem 2009-10-18 23:40:44 (353 views)
        • Re: 2003 530i OR 540i - stetam 2009-10-20 00:04:06 (426 views)