Considering getting a 2003 e39 520i

[calvinthen]

Hi all e39 experts,

I'm looking at getting a 2003 520i and had started going my hunting across Klang Valley for it.

My experience are really on Asian cars mainly Proton, Perodua, Kia and Toyota.

I had my various viewing on the car first thing I noticed are the engine compartment and the interior mechanics are totally alien to me.
I dont even know what is where and having problem even finding the central locking button. I know it boils down to getting used in a matter of time.

I will also be getting my regular mechanic for the inspection - but unsure whether he's familiar with continental car. But I believe my mechanic will be able to check the maintenance of the car and whether the car been in accident/flood.

However my concern is and if there is someone in the forum who can assists me in:
i) e39 specifics on what to look out during inspection.
ii) how do I know whether the parts (engine and body) are not modified. I prefer it retains the original out-of-shop condition and if it's changed.. why? I rather not buy a engine modified for performance and the maintenance will sky rocket.

Others:
i) With my limited knowledge, is it advisable for me to venture into BMW?
ii) Are there different facelift for e39 520i 2003 model? who about m-sport version? I've seen different varieties in terms of skirting, signal colors, slightly lowered, different bumper, etc

Please advice accordingly or point out if I'm overthinking it.

Thanks very much

 

[moots]

nah bro....read all about it...

http://www.bmwclubmalaysia.com/newforums/index.php?/topic/32190-e39-523i-1997-model-common-problems-owners-faced/

and I suggest you at least get a 2.5 or above.....

 

[calvinthen]

Thanks moots.

Read the thread. Quite a hueg detail to go through during inspection.

Any advice on why 2.5 above intead of 2.2?

 

[556129]

Thanks moots.

Read the thread. Quite a hueg detail to go through during inspection.

Any advice on why 2.5 above intead of 2.2?

2.2 works fine and is very economical. Its more a cruiser though so dont expect to beat anyone at the lights. I had 3 e39s, 2 520i's and a 530i. They were all good strong and comfortable cars. I would say most modern e class or bmws still lose out in terms of build quality and feeling of solidness conveyed during the drive. I would buy them again if i had the chance to find a nice one.

 

[seewai]

I'm planning to sell off my 520i converted 3.0L 5sp manual if you're keen we can come out for a TT

 

[e.dayanan]

Hey, Calvin,

I'm D and I was on the same hunt as well. Managed to find my beauty.

2003 model E39 520i. 72,000 km on the clock, completely factory stock. Owner is a always missing expat, and I have just paid the deposit.

Hope you're as lucky as I got when I was hunting. Please enjoy the photos of the car I have purchased.

DMann.

 

[antiquer]

Congratulations D..
Enjoy your new car..

 

[wgh939]

Wow, pristine condition!!!

 

[556129]

Hey, Calvin,

I'm D and I was on the same hunt as well. Managed to find my beauty.

2003 model E39 520i. 72,000 km on the clock, completely factory stock. Owner is a always missing expat, and I have just paid the deposit.

Hope you're as lucky as I got when I was hunting. Please enjoy the photos of the car I have purchased.

DMann.

Wow beautiful, this is exactly what i am looking for. If u want to flip it for a gain, pls pm me

 

[e.dayanan]

S'up everyone,

Antiquer & WGH939, thanks for the welcome. Not 100% pristine la. Small issues like a missing fibre engine guard, missing locking wheel nut tool and t-bar from toolkit and i think the angel-wings in the rear lamps got problem a bit.Have to fix.

566129 - not selling yet. Ambik next month only. Heeheh

 

[anakin]

If you don't mind... how much you paid fr the beauty? I could use it as a guideline/ benchmark..of how much one expected to pay for such a beauty as she....

 

[e.dayanan]

Anakin,

PM sent.

DMann