BMW 5-Series Saloon (1996 - 2003) 528i SE 4d Auto Owner Review

I bought my 1997 528i SE about a month ago and have covered about 500 miles of mixed driving since getting the car. It has put a smile on my face from the day I bought it and attracted more attention and compliments than the £40k Mercedes I had before it.
It is a very low mileage car but is astonishingly well preserved for 25 years old and EVERYTHING on the car works perfectly.
I had the car inspected by a local german car specialist and he too was astonished at it's condition recommending only a couple of relatively minor items to attend to; brake fluid flush, and some worn rear bushes.
The E39 is a joy to drive, perfectly balanced and more than capable in modern traffic, it is comfortable and quiet and adequately powerful. A perfect grand tourer.
My advice to those looking to buy one of these iconic vehicles is do so IF you can afford to properly maintain it, I plan to have mine looked after by a highly rated local indepentent german car specialist, using OEM parts. Also be picky and wait for the right car. You wont regret it.