USED BMW 5 Series Saloon (96 - 04)

My car

A great, great car. Now getting a little long in the tooth, but still miles better than most manufactuer's current offerings. The 528i is an excellent combination of performance, comfort and running costs.

I had 2 of these and really miss them. Dynamically the new 5 series appears to be a better car, but it is not one ounce a better car to drive.

Overall, still one of the best second hand buys on the market

My car

As no one else has reviewed the 525iSE manual - here goes. Mine was a 1 owner 2001 model bought with 41k and has now done 94k miles. On long runs I average 37mpg, around town 28-30mpg. (unsurprisingly, better figures than the auto version)

This is an eminently practical car; runs faultlessly, uses no oil. It is fast, quiet, smooth, comfortable,(space for 5 tall adults) handles impeccably with 17" wheels and tyres and IMHO looks much, much, more appealing than the newer replacement shape.

It is serviced at an independent BMW specialist when required at around half the cost of BMW main dealers. No expenses in 5 years other than routine service, tyres and windscreen wipers. Leather seats still in great condition, bodywork fine. I really can't fault this excellent car. Probably the best model in the range for all round versatility, taking into account BHP and running cost.

My car

I have had my 1999 523i SE Auto for almost 4 years. Overall it has been an enjoyable car. Servicing can be expensive from the 'stealer' therefore I have always used an independent. I was quoted £650 for an inspection 2 from the dealer but paid half of that at my independent. This car does tend to eat tyres.

This model suffers from many design faults which can be found reported by many drivers on the Internet. I have suffered from the following:

1) Dashboard pixel failure - new dash - £500 2) ABS Unit failure - new unit - £650 (I got mine rebuilt for £250) 3) Water in headlight - £200 (not got round to fixing this yet)

Overall a good car but I think I need a change now....

My car

If you have read previous reviews- you know how much I love this car! But I thought I would summarise how much you can get parts for on online auction sites & breakers; most parts are cheaper than a saxo!

New instrument panel £50 + £60 for dealers to code it. - (shame it cost someone else on here £500)

Headlights- £150 if that!

Shock absorbers front + rear including springs £200

Front & rear brake pads & discs & handbrake shoes £115!

Service kit- plugs, oil, filters etc £85

You can also get an eqiv. Inspection 2 in a national chain of garages for about £180- that's everything fluids, filters, labour