2000/2001 540/M5 steering changes

[bcbmw]

I'm currently looking to upgrade my 98' 528i sport manual to either a 01-03 540 6 speed or a 00 M5. I've been told that the 01 and later 540's have a steering upgrade (to rack and pinion which my 528i has now versus RCB). Does anyone know if this is fact and whether or not the 00' M5's have the rack and pinion? Also, if anyone has either car for sale please let me know.

[Fern]

To my knowledge the e39 does not have any steering upgrade.

The 540i has recirculating ball -type steering and the 528i has rack and pinion.

Drive cars with both types and you will see a big difference in each.

Personally I think the rack and pinion provides better handling response.

My understanding of recirculating ball on the M5 and 540i was due to added front end weight of the V8.

The recirculating ball in the V8 cars is not to be confused with an "upgraded" steering feel...

The primary changes in the e39 cars were in '99 where the engine was technically updated, hence the '99 cars have m52tu and m62tu designation vs. m52 and m62 prior to '99

Cheers,

Fern

[Slvr e39]

Also, if anyone has either car for sale please let me know.

Just curious if your going to be selling your 528i sport and if you are, for how much?

[bcbmw]

Thanks for the info. I drive 30 miles through the Santa Cruz mountains every day and guess I'll trade my 528's great steering for the HP.

[bcbmw]

The 528's a black on black sport with 115K on it (the original clutch is still in good shape) and will probably go for $14K to $15K.