BMW 5-Series Saloon 540i 4d Auto (96) (1998/R) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
I shopped around for a good spec, fully loaded, and it is a lot of car for the money. Problem is, the new one came out and I lost 33% in depreciation right there and then. Ouch.
Costs
Everything seems to cost hundreds if not thousands of pounds, and as for the MPG - I'm thinking of enroling it in the AA (...not for breakdown recovery - for its drink problem!).
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On the road
Driving
This car manages to grip and corner with the agility of something much smaller, but you can feel your wallet getting lighter every time it does (its hunger for new shoes is astounding, but then again, it is a fairly heavy beast!).
Performance
Phew! Fast? It's almost better just knowing that you can turn the XR3i next to you into a spec in the rear-view mirror, than actually doing it. Almost... And the look on their faces when you do priceless!
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Living with it
Reliability
Bullet proof mechanicals, the electronics, I'm not so sure about.
Image
Refined understated superiority. Much nicer to look at than the new ones!
Comfort
It's better than the best sofas I've sat on. DFS want to talk to their upholsterer...
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Security and Service
Security
Not tested so far (touch wood. -That's Walnut, BTW...)
Service
Main Dealers are very expensive, and busy branches can be worryingly non-commital about your business.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Other
Airbag system and Sat Nav don't work due to known electonic issues. The BMW Dealer want £80 before they'll even confirm the cost of repair! :(
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes