BMW 5-Series Touring (1997 - 2004) 530d Sport 5d Auto (2003/03) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
I have always wanted to have a BMW since I was 14 years and visiting Munich every summer at the time and salivating for a long time at BMW's main showroom in the centre of the capital of Bayern. It is expensive to buy even used and expensive to own/maintain which you have to accept.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
One neighbour has a bigger BMW, the other two MB's. I fit in that neighbourhood with my car.
Would you buy this car again and why?
I would buy the latest version of the very same car at about 3-4 years old.
What are you likely to buy next?
See answer above. The reason is this is an evolutionary car in any of its guises. It has been refined 20+ years and it feels you are driving a revolutionary car.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£12,500
When did you buy the car?
May 2008
Did you get a good deal and why?
I should have knock £500 off the price.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Large, heavy and still has that BMW driving quality.
What was the dealer like?
The car was presented in a dark barn or hangar right after polishing. That was a mistake since I left myself in a position where it was impossibel to notice a few minor cosmetic damages.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
It's an automatic with 3 liter turbodiesel engine well matched to the profile of the car. I come from Europe so I can drive it in 30cm of snow on a summer tyre. However I suggest to consider having winter tyres on when it is cold and frosty outside. This will put the car into a different league.
What's it like to park?
Can be difficult due to lenght. You have to be prepared to search for longer to find a suitable space.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
In two weeks after colllection the turbo failed of which the dealer had to pay for. Apart from this 2x diesel injectors, 4x rear subframe bushes, complete self levelling air suspension, diesel pump, front left wheel bearing, front catalyst.
What's most practical about your car?
It does satisfy the requirements of a large family estate and also capable of putting a grin on your face whenever you wanted.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Bluetooth mobile connection still very usable onboard navigation system.
