The BMW E39 has now depreciated to the point where they are an entry level way of getting into  BMW ownership.  It gives you a bit more room than a 3 series, and a more capable car.  It also offers a better alternative to the W210 Mercedes E Class both in terms of looks, driving experience and quality.

The BMW E39 has crisp handling and steering and always feels poised when driving.    Despite the badge, the 523i is not actually a 2.3 liter car, it is a 2.5 liter in line 6.    The engine, being a BMW in line six is smooth and likes to rev, but is ultimately a little underpowered for the 5 series until you get to highway speed.   It also suffers from ‘lag’, presumably from the fly by wire system that exacerbates the lack of power.    The later 530i is apparently the better choice, although I have not driven one.

The interior is a little drab, but the seats are supportive and comfortable even on long distances.   Being a late 90’s car, it still has 90’s sound equipment like cassette players and CD-stackers.  These are integrated into the dashboard making replacement hard.    Also part of it’s 90s legacy is the aerodynamic body means it is hard to see the rear corners when reversing, and a reversing sensor was not standard equipment.

The particular car is owned by my brother and has driven has over 260,000 kms.  It still drives well and is quite economical to maintain, if taken to a good independent mechanic.   Some of the interior trim items are showing a bit of age, but overall it is still a good car for such a small amount of money, especially the 528i and 530i.

I would be happy to have a BMW E39 as a daily driver. I would choose one of the more powerful models instead of the 523i.

Update:  Sadly this car was later written off.   I eventually used the seat as my garage chair.  

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