Thoughts on getting a 540iA

[kingQong]

I would love your input on this. I have a '91 Q45t w/ 116,000 and have an opportunity to get a 2000 BMW 540iA sport w/ 85K for $10,500. Condition is good on the car.

Does this sound like a decent deal? What probs should I look for on the 540? What do you think my Q is worth? It is in good shape with the NICO chip (one step below mad max), adjustable upper control arms, sp brake rotors, hawk pads, front strut tower brace, '93 TCU, 245/45 17 Dunlops on 1999 Q45t five spoke wheels. Also have set of 15 wheels and california custom springs (not installed). Negative is that I do not know if the guides have been done.

[maxnix]

No guides is not good for value as a buyer has to assume that they are bad and car cannot be driven home.

If you want the smaller BMW, look for a 540i Sport with the 6MT unless you drive commmuting rush hours.

[Jesda]

Only E39 weak points I know of are some of the large, easy-access coolant hoses. It seems like a few know-nothing drivers let them leak, overheat, and kill the motor. Thats why so many E39s you see for sale have new engines.

Otherwise, there's no reason not to buy it.

Your Q is worth nothing as a trade. If you sell it on NICO you might find someone who appreciates the upgrades. Like Brian said, if guides are original then no one "in the know" will buy it.

Craigslist, maybe 2000-2700 if it presents well and you're patient.

[ScottJackson]

I haven't driven an E39 540iA, but my '95 with auto trans kinda sucks. It's a fine car, but the 6 speed would be SOOOOO much better.

[elwesso]

BMW's with AT's never really made a lot of sense to me. personally, i wouldnt trade a Q for a 540 with an auto... I dont really think its a huge upgrade.

The E39s are pretty reliable but will easily cost you the same amount as money if not more to maintain to as new specs, despite its much higher initial cost!

The good news its 8 years newer than your Q, so many of the age related issues we see on Qs have no reared their ugly head.