Hello to all

[nw bimmer]

I am considering purchasing a E 39 6 cylinder (hopefully manual) but if a good example auto comes my way no worries. Basides a car with service records and a PPI are there specific years I should avoid? The consumer type guides seem to prefer the 98, 99, 2001 years (Urban legend?).
Is the 2.5, 2.8 or 3.0 6 cylinder engine more desirable? (durability over power but not gutless) Are there specific issues with the e 39 I should look for? Is the E 39's somewhat owner mechanic friendly? (I can turn a wrench)
I am looking for a newer car i have two great vechicles (brand X on this forum) but both are 20+ years old. I'm looking for something newer.
Why a BMW?
1. I have previously owed a 320 I and a 318 IS they were both good cars.
2. Mercedes had issues in the 90's to mid 2000's. I know BMW had some issues too (not as many I think) so I need guidance.
3. Looking for something different. something comfortable, reliable, sporty (stick hopefully) and safe.
Sorry to talk your ears off. Thank all in advance for your comments and input.

[brettski]

As a general rule the later in the series you can get, the better, just allows for bugs to be ironed out earlier in the production life. As far as I know the inline 6 is a reliable workhorse, but I don't mind being corrected by others that know different.
Good luck and post some photos of what you are looking at.

[jimmythepie]

six is good,in threes anyway