I've had the E39,same engine as the E46. Enjoyed every moment of the 8years I had it. Bought it with 90K on the clock. Be prepared to spend roughly 20k on spare parts. The parts I changed were:
Ignition coils
Radiator
Radiator fan clutch
lower and upper suspension arms
ABS sensors
Door lock mechanisms
Shock absorbers
Brake discs
Steering rack

If I can remember, round $300+ for each,maybe a bit more. I've moved on to Peugeot for a year now,so can't remember the exact price. You can get OEM parts from Germany,Taiwan or China from Stuttgart Motors in PJ.

I've not tried BA,bought most of myE39 parts from Stuttgart Motors in PJ. Are BA cheaper than Stuttgart M?

Time to replace my E39 and will be looking at a used X1 next year. Thats when i'll be looking for replacement parts. Tks!

This post has been edited by SKYjack: Mar 16 2013, 01:50 PM

I want an SUV that is not too big. X5 too big,X3 not bad, X1 perfect size for me. Anyone can't tell why 2nd hand price of X1 is so bad, 100K drop in just 2 years! Price drop is great news for me,but worry if there's something seriously wrong!

Tks for the advise. Any reputable one is PJ area?

Tks for the info.

That used to happen to my E39. Mine would drop down half way during driving. After a while the auto wind mechanism gives trouble,rather expensive as the whole mechanism have to change. Door also does not unlock. Have to change door lock mechanism. Sorry to say la but expected better quality from the Germans. This is almost like Proton quality.

Power is the same as both are 2.2 L. E90 will accelerate a little faster cos of lighter body. I had the E39 2.2L engine. Maintenance will be high on a used BMW. You must set aside $20K on top of sale price, if you want your Bimer to run like one!

IMO for that kind of money you are better of with a brand new 408 or Jetta. These cars come with 5year warranty. If you do the math, at the end of 5 years the Bimer would have cost a lot more, cos of yearly high maintenance. Whilst you don't spend a cent on spares with these new cars cos of 5 year warranty.

Another very big factor is performance and driving dynamics. Both these cars, although smaller engines, will blow away the Bimers, due to their high tech engines. Their turbo engines produce more power, full torque at low end which will smoke the Bimers on acceleration.

Sports tune suspension and steering feedback on the Pug is at another level, you feel like driving a sports car. Even the F30 steering feedback is not as good as the Pugs! The Jetta's steering is slighter lighter and a bit of body roll,but certainly a whole lot better than Bimers. E90 has very poor steering feedback!

In the end, you have a fantastic ride with lower maintenance. In 5 years definitely not a hole in your pocket! Just my 2cents worth. Happy hunting!

This post has been edited by SKYjack: Aug 6 2015, 10:58 PM

I guess if you must have a BMW,than there is nothing more to discuss. Both the Bimers of your choice are good, E60 for class, E90 for driving pleasure. Be prepared for high yearly maintenance.

For today, both are considered underpowered. That's why I suggested the Jetta or Peugeot, for about the same budget. Both these cars have better driving dynamics.

However ppl like my brother must have a Bimer,no matter what! He's moved from E90 to F30 (328i).

What i've said so far is only IMO. I've read extensively, before putting my money down and signed the dotted line. Before making that final decision, I've test driven 7 cars that were on my list and short listed Jetta and 408.

You are probably thinking how could VW & Pugs being much cheaper have better steering systems than the Bimer. Just to read writeups and comment is easy. Real value is when one can match what is written to real experience. A very important factor in my statement is, not only having researched the technical aspects of the cars on my list,but also experience of having owned models form the brands.

My former car was E39. The E90 in the family has been upgraded to F30. E39 and E90 are old technology.The steering systems were good during it's time,but better ones have come about now. You can read BMW forums and you'll see many unhappy about the F30's steering feel and feedback. I know exactly what they mean, as I have one in the house to have hands on experience.

Whilst I'm very sure, again this is only IMHO. Please feel free to make your own choice!

This post has been edited by SKYjack: Aug 9 2015, 05:30 PM

To be correct, it's hydro-electric. You are right, get what feels right for you.

Have to agree with you,that is certainly the case. These days I've decided to let ppl be happy with what they say. Gets you nowhere trying to prove a point.

On another note. I see your interest in the F30. Are you getting one? Phenomenal power for a 2liter engine. I may go for used F10 diesel in a years time. Can't afford a new one!

Tks for the info. For me it's not just about power.

Which center? Does the offer include 520d?

Tks mate,I'll pop over when free. If I can find a 520d with cinnamon brown interior on offer, it's a definite sale!

There was an unsold 2014 unit with this interior for $265 in Melaka. I drove down last week,but was sold just recently!

I'd go for F10,if you want modern technology & electronics. If you are ok with NA engine, then E60.

Long term maintenance on E60 may be lower, not having to deal with turbo issues! But once you taste bimer turbo engines, it'll hard to turn back.

Sure you can. Most welcome!

Any advice on a 2006 e63. Am negotiating to get this. Will have it checked out by a BMW mechanic.

As this is a 10year old car, i'm sure there'll be a number of components to change. Anyone can suggest annual expense I need to put aside.

Tqvm!

This post has been edited by SKYjack: Dec 6 2016, 12:01 PM

328 is certainly a better choice, and as you found out RV is so low that it only cost a few K more than 320.

All Contis drop RV drastically. Cos all come with turbo where maintenance tends to be high after 5 years. Once all necessary parts are serviced/changed then the car is good for another cycle.

I'd still prefer a Conti then a boring Jap model.