E34 525i Vs E39 523i

[splower]

Hi,

I've currently got a 1992 uk spec 525i (M50) which I love. Recently browsing ebay and autotrader though I'm becoming increasingly tempted by the low prices of E39s and was wondering how the E34 525i compares with the E39 523i?

I know they are both 2.5l engines, do they perform similarly or should I go for the 528i?

cheers
-Simon

[Hypr5]

I would imagine that performance is pretty similar, but if you can, get the 528. The 528 has a lot more torque thats really noticeable than the 525... And it's engine is silky smoooth.

[Zeuk in Oz]

Hi,

I've currently got a 1992 uk spec 525i (M50) which I love. Recently browsing ebay and autotrader though I'm becoming increasingly tempted by the low prices of E39s and was wondering how the E34 525i compares with the E39 523i?

I know they are both 2.5l engines, do they perform similarly or should I go for the 528i?

cheers
-Simon
My understanding is that the 523i has slightly less power and torque than the M50 engine currently in your E34 525i. On this score the 528i might be a better bet, especially if you are looking at a manual gearbox. With the auto box there is very little difference in performance, I believe.

Being in the UK I think you also need to consider the Nikasil issue - buy a car manufactured after the 10th week of 1998 to avoid any problems - to find out more do a search on this forum. Had to do with sulphur content of fuel.

The E39 will also have lots of safety goodies not seen in the E34. ASC, lots of airbags etc.

My understanding, but not having owned an E39 I stand to be corrected, is that the suspension is so constructed on the E39 that the components don't need as frequent replacement as in the E34, however the E39 has many more computers and electronic systems that can be expensive when they fail. Do a search on this issue as well on this forum. I presume that most repairs on E39 are dearer than E34s.

Obviously I haven't talked about aesthetics, handling, however most would consider the E39 to have been an improvement over the E34 with respect to safety and roadholding etc.

[angrypancake]

i just walked in the house. was out driving the old mans e39 528. definitely an improvement, dont get a 523

[Hypr5]

The 528 is a LOT quicker and more powerful in all respects than the e34 525.

As for handling, it doesn't feel as tight, etc (even with sport pkg), but roadholding does seem to be improved. Then again, both of my e34s are lowered w/ aftermarket components - so thats a bad comparison.

The e34s are the fun cars, the e39s are the improved in many ways cruiser cars. I love both.
Oh - and although that rack and pinion in the e39 takes away a LOT of the sharp turning radius, it feels soo nice. ;)