540I question

[Jakers]

Hello, I am checking in from Georgia! I am a new member.

I am considering joining the BMW fraternity. I am considering a BMW 540i. Would love to hear input on this model. It is a 1997 with 95,000 miles. Car is very nice and has been a one "family" car. Mobil one since day one.

The car is so clean that I only have one burning question, the driver's seat does not appear to go back as far as the passenger seat. I suspect this is not normal.

Thanks!

[Jamison]

Is it possible that there is something stuck in the seat track?

[mdimbler]

To gain a few extra inches of drivers seat legroom, do the following:

1. move the drivers seat all the way forward
2. from the back seat, locate the clip attached to the right side drivers seat rail.
3. lift the clip up using a screw driver or pliers.

The clip is flexible metal and can be removed and replaced without harm.

[Eric S.]

Here's the deal: You need to get a 540 with the M-Sport package. How can you tell if it has this option? Well, if it has the 6-speed manual it has the Sport package because all manual 540s came with the sport package. If it has a slushbox, it's still easy because all Sport E39's except 1997 have the "shadowline" trim - black metal trim around the windows in lieu of stainless/chrome. Since the car you are looking at is a 1997, you'll need to check other features.

For more info, and info on "common problems" with the 540, check out www.540i6.com...

[///Matt]

Jakers, you've picked a great BMW to start on. I own a 97 540i with 180,000+ on the tach and I love it. I agree with Eric that the shadowline package is a nice touch, but even if the car you are considering doesnt have it, it isnt a major project to replace it. Also, with 95,000 you've car will still have a very long life ahead of it.

[///M Power]

Beauitufl car to go with.

[Jamison]

Matt your car has 180k miles on it?! wow it looks amazing. i know it was just repainted and updated but still. props

[Ivan]

e39 may very well be the sexiest bmw design ever

[Jakers]

Silver 97 with 94,750 on the odometer. Automatic. Garaged car owned by a 65 year old woamn who wanted to get a MB CLK 320 coupe. The interior is probably a solid 9 of 10 and the exterior is a good 9 of 10 as well. I am quite pleased. I offered the seller $12,000 and she took the offer. The deal is only contingent upon a mechanics inspection on Monday morning.

[saltshaker185]

congrats on the buy! youll love the car, its a real beast on the road... and its a beautiful one at that... yes its true, a beautiful beast.