2002 BMW 540 Review

nzl8dc
11/9/2007

Ownership Status: I own this vehicle.
Recommendation: I recommend this vehicle.

Pros Power/Transmission- torque feels like it's a direct connection to gas pedal Handling - best "non-electronic" handling balance Reliability - 1 cupholder and 1 seat motor replacement are only repairs Steptronic works great in Auto Mode, holds gears when it should, etc. Climate control - 100% effective - set at 70 degrees and never change it.

Cons Could be roomier Cupholder is unbelievably ineffective Steptronic is useless for actually shifting yourself

Bought the vehicle new August 2002. Currently 42,000 miles. Is the Sport Model - with Steptronic, M-suspension,



Stealthy - i think it's classic

Clean, but a bit spartan

Front air spoiler in front has a tendency to find curbs

Except cupholder

excellent!

feels like you can out-handle a corvette

Good highway - abysmal (but fun) in town

did not get navigation, not sure how it works

For the type car, it has been exceptional... tires a bit pricy - definately need winter tires/rims in North US

Keep looking to trade it in on another car, but i don't see anything that isn's so "electronic oriented" in performance... dont see why company's are trying to emulate the handkling of this car with Electronics?



The handling of this particular model is in my estimation the perfect balance of Sport and Luxury... You are directly connected to the experience, minimal electronic interface to the Drive. More grunt from the lower rear end ratio on the Steptronic makes driving in Auto mode as good as i have experienced... the entire adjustment of gas pedal engagement/gear selection/handling is exceptional - the highlight of the car. Has been exceptionally reliable, has not used a SINGLE quart of oil (other than Oil Changes), gas mileage in town is bad, but highway is 25...