E34 vs E39

[Anton CH.]

Ok I may have lied on the previous poll about how long will you keep a car for. The prices on e39s have really comed down. I just found a beutiful 98 black on back 5speed 528 w/ 102k mi for under 10k. I think some members here own one, how are e39s when it comes to maintance?

[winfred]

imho the e39 aint the car the e34 is by far

[Interceptor]

imho the e39 aint the car the e34 is by far

What about the mechanical quirks? Durability?

[winfred]

more computerized crap that's dieing, horible sound system, front suspension is not much of a improvment over the e34s, rear suspension is a couple steps backward from the e34s, the double vanos motor of 99 and up is a real bitch to work on compared to earlyer cars, same crappy auto tranny but with lifetime fluid, headlights fall apart internally (fixable varly cheep but a pain none the less), contacts suck on tail lights

What about the mechanical quirks? Durability?

[Robin-535im]

I can't comment on the durability like Winfred can but I've driven a few. At the end of the day, I still prefer the handling, feel and power of the 535im. The 540 6-speed is pretty darn fast, but feels heavier and more "squishy" - the two I've driven had a lot of slack in the drivetrain so if you floored it or let off suddenly, there was a lot of rocking. It's possible they were just thrashed a lot though!

The way I see it, I'll keep the current e34 until it dies for some reason, and see what the world of cars looks like then. E34's are getting pretty cheap too!

[stx133]

in aust, the e39 is still double the price of the e34. $40k+. it is not really an option here to discuss. i like the look of the 34 by far, the 39 is heavier but has more techno gadgets..

[Anton CH.]

Yeah but the e39 just looks so much more modern. It may be the new front grill. Let's face it, the e34 is not exactly the first thing that comes to mind when they think of a BMW. Just debating on whether I should make the switch.

[stx133]

a 'Smart' looks 'modern', but it would not interest me for a purchase

[bimmerd00d]

As an E39 owner, ex e34 owner, i think i can answer this.

-E39 lacks the feel of the E34, overall
-E39 is definitely faster
-The comfort level of the e39 is much higher (comfort seats at least)
-E34 is by far the better looking car
-Seems like the E39 has less little quirks than the E34 (subjective)
-Bottom line, I miss my e34 525i 5-spd. I will eventuall sell this and buy another E34 of some sorts.

[Jon K]

As an E39 owner, ex e34 owner, i think i can answer this.

-E39 lacks the feel of the E34, overall
-E39 is definitely faster
-The comfort level of the e39 is much higher (comfort seats at least)
-E34 is by far the better looking car
-Seems like the E39 has less little quirks than the E34 (subjective)
-Bottom line, I miss my e34 525i 5-spd. I will eventuall sell this and buy another E34 of some sorts.

Of course its faster... 4.4L vs 2.5.... i bet mine is just as fast tho