The Near-M5 Sedan | 2001 BMW 540i M Sport Review

The E39 BMW 540i M Sport wasn't exclusive to the 2003 model year, at least if you lived outside of the US. Read our full review: goo.gl/ettmUK
BMW's top-end 540i came with the M Sport Package in the US for 2003 only, but the rest of the world got them in 2001. We're behind the wheel of this 2001 BMW 540i M Sport on TestDrive Spotlight. We go over all the features of this midsize luxury performance car, take it for a rip, and go over everything you need to know if you're in the market for an E39 V8.
We're proud to say that all of our videos are uniquely produced in the Niagara Region, Ontario, Canada.

[@propergarage4249]

Respect for not putting M5 badge

[@PRNTestDrive]

It would be against this show's ethics to film an episode with fake badges on it.

[@propergarage4249]

PRN_TestDrive My man!! 👊👊👊👊 Absolutely Respect that!!

[@NickelArcade123]

Still has an m badge on the back. I call those “Mposters” 😅

[@propergarage4249]

@@NickelArcade123 true that

[@PowerslideSWE]

@@NickelArcade123 Yup, that's gotta go too.

[@maumuse2211]

Every time I see positive reviews on the E39 540i, makes me just want to get in mine and drive it (':

[@PRNTestDrive]

Do it!

[@jxntxn1462]

Do you spend a lot on repairs?

[@maumuse2211]

@@jxntxn1462 kinda 540i e39s have premature timing guid failures thats like the most expensive thing other than that if your handy kinda guy its not to bad just hope you dont have gf because youll spend alot of timr with your e39 in the garadge

[@jxntxn1462]

@@maumuse2211 thanks

[@WhiteBoardFinance]

Love my 03 540i M Sport 6spd. 77k miles. Smells like new.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Very nice, hold onto it if you can!

[@E39Kai]

I have a 03 540i m sport thats been garage kept for years, it only has 7k miles on it, my brother also has the wagon version in the same color

[@ericu1196]

Has it been a reliable car? Looking at one soon.

[@E39Kai]

@@ericu1196 i would not recommend buying one. They are endless money pits especially the 540i's, and if you are getting the v8 version thats the worst engine ever made, plus all the other stuff that might be wrong with the car, like all the plastics cracking inside and in the engine bay. But of you are rich and you really want one, go ahead

[@troylogan3653]

Eric u if you can diy you cars then I would say go for it. They are definitely a constant maintenance vehicle, but he'll your not driving a chevy. They are awesome cars just find one with decent maintenance history.

[@WikedTechniQz]

i have a 2000 540i sport man i was waiting for that reaction when you floored it.

[@PRNTestDrive]

We really liked it, it was a surprise for sure! We drove a couple more AMGs this week and this 540i still gave us a bigger surprise than those.

[@abracadabra0974]

Naren Sookraj i have one too :o

[@xanthopoulos1825]

I miss my 540i/6 it was the most fun I've ever had, it has inspired me to want an M5 of a similar year

[@SL1CK14]

Try a 98 gs400, it’ll surprise you as well

[@5.0_Lex_]

Perpetual Radio Networks I had a 01 528i Msport with the 5speed manual, buttery smooth and the inline6 seems underated felt like it had plenty more power than advertised

[@jonathanedwards6366]

The 540iA sport has a 3.15 rear end that helps it off the line. It's really an underrated car. People dismiss it because it's an auto but that rear end makes up for any possible discriminations...

[@PRNTestDrive]

Very good point, I hate the discrimination a lot of people express towards automatics, considering both a manual and auto were available giving people choice.

[@ElvisCarReviews]

Not bad for a 16 years old car

[@PRNTestDrive]

Can't complain! It's in good shape given it's age, mileage, and use. This is a daily driver for the owner and living in Canada doesn't help when it comes to exterior condition. Our E38 740iL really shows it's age.

[@samting2009]

just gotta love the E39!!!!!!!!!

[@PRNTestDrive]

Can't go wrong with a good looking E39!

[@javanis5151]

@@PRNTestDrive Mine just hit 300K and going strong

[@tomasacevedo3932]

Javani S Everything aside from the cheap plastic timing guides and coolant issues the motor seems pretty solid as long as proper maintenance is taken into account.

[@josephnicoletti]

these cars are not for the Faint at Heart with no Balls!, .or People worried about Gas Mileage or Up-keep. Buy one and Drive the Hell out of it every day but keep it up and Take CARE of It,Before you "DIE" or you won't go to Heaven !

[@PRNTestDrive]

Well said!

[@josephnicoletti]

these are just wonderful cars, but people must keep them up, thank you !..

[@KMTVA757]

Love my e39 540i M Tech. Had it 6 years for now, garaged it for two and bringing it back out now and it puts the same look on my face every time I take it out.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Hold onto it if you can! These are some special cars and they're only going to continue to grow in demand & value.

[@paullarimore8598]

You are my brother! 99 Sport 6 speed. I smile every time I drive it! Even if it is just the 1.2 miles to work. It is an exciting 1.2 miles. Have a couple of other cars for daily drivers but the bimmer day is special. Hey man. Did we meet in an Atlanta airport? Dude knew when the county sheriff department had their shift change and would go road racing every Sunday morning.

[@tomallen100]

Recently bought a 01 740i m sport from the original owner, test drove a 03 540i 6spd m sport during my search, they do run well. Sadly it was in too poor of condition to purchase. Watching your videos intrigued me enough to look into the e38's, glad I did, at least at this early point.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Glad to hear it! We started filming these videos to help people who are interested in picking up these types of cars. Also because we want to buy these types of cars and can't find any videos about them!

[@bobblybob4351]

Great video, love to hear about the little details. Subscribed

[@PRNTestDrive]

Thanks! We try to be as thorough as possible, we can't think of anyone else who goes over everything.

[@oldsjunkie1]

Although I didn't get lucky enough to get an M sport, I have been daily driving a 540i automatic for a while now and you CAN NOT beat the price to performance on these cars. I flog my 540i daily and maintain it every weekend. Near perfect relationship.

[@PRNTestDrive]

That's great to hear! They're fantastic cars, don't let anyone tell you otherwise just because it's an automatic!

[@ShamTizzle]

Great video, appreciate the attention to the details in the interior

[@PRNTestDrive]

Thanks! We started off filming full tours of these older cars and wanted to continue to provide the same level of detail throughout.

[@maxthemaltesedog3597]

I had this exact car . Great drive . Can't go wrong but beware of the timing chain and coolant problems . Excellent review man

[@PRNTestDrive]

Glad you liked it, thanks! Coolant issues and timing chain guides are definitely things to look at fully when buying one.

[@richardprice7763]

The owner could have cleaned the interior, I would have done bearing in mind my car is being featured on a KZbin channel....

[@___OmerAJ___]

Love your vids.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Thanks! We're hoping to do more classics like this!

[@LuckyS8.]

I had a 2002 6speed manual 3years ago..I give my car to my friend to make a spin and he crashed it...I miss that car..But i have e38 740i 6speed manual so this is even better than e39..sry for my english...Btw Great rewiew as always 💪

[@PRNTestDrive]

That sucks about your E39, I'm sure they felt awful about crashing it. I know we're always very careful when taking out these cars, even more so when the owners give them to us for an extended period of time!

[@AdventureeX]

BMWE38 and he crashed it* 😂😘

[@kerbytheslayer6181]

He’s not your friend.

[@madmax3397]

Never

[@damianlugocantu9623]

Man you crazy!! I wouldn't let drive my BMW cars to no body except my mechanic!!

[@henzo7087]

Best sedan in the world, awesome machine

[@PRNTestDrive]

We agree, these are definitely great cars to own. We saw quite a few E39s this past weekend.

[@need4spe3dBeast]

I daily an 02 540i m sport and I love it so much!! Keeping it as long as I can!!

[@PRNTestDrive]

Glad to hear it! We agree, if you own one of these hold onto it.

[@kerbytheslayer6181]

Nice. I got a 98 528i with 175,000 miles 😎

[@salehbyatra4707]

Its So Beautiful

[@PRNTestDrive]

We love the look of it!

[@Andy-bm6zo]

absolutely best reviewer on youtube, at this point..... great vid

[@PRNTestDrive]

Thank you, we really appreciate that!

[@rosesmith5135]

Nice to see a great Ontario review!

[@PRNTestDrive]

Glad you enjoyed it! I was lucky to get a number of great cars to film when I was living there.

[@epicon6]

2:48 In 2001 (not early 2001) the gear switch direction was changed to backwards for upshifts and forwards for downshifts.

[@Gamer-lc4bg]

Have bought a Bmw 540i touring 1998, what a beast, you are right about that Beast With Wheels and it Goes.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Nice! Hold onto it if you can.

[@Gamer-lc4bg]

@@PRNTestDrive i will hold it till the end, best engineering of BMW e39

[@PHOTOCONVENTION]

You just convinced me. I've been eyeing one up and I'm going to put a deposit on it this week.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Congrats! We love hearing about new purchases for cars like this, more of them need to be saved.

[@erick2good]

Cash out pimp. Repairs are gonna be needed, well restoration.

[@kastewart1001]

So, this is a great video! Reactions are fantastic. I just bought 2 weeks ago a 1999 540i Steptronic. 196,000 K on it. Needs some care, but will be ready for the spring. Wasn't able to floor it as the car had been sitting a long time and front calipers almost seized. Motor sound great. M62TUB44. Paid $2250 as is, so little chance of buyers remorse. Looking forward to it. Driving a 1998 318i as my winter car. Fun to drive.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Very nice! The E36 is still one of the cars we haven't been able to feature yet but want to. Sounds like you got a pretty good deal on the E39, can't argue with that price!

[@davidg4026]

Hope you've got deep pockets man... My '00 540i 6spd cost me $10k over 5 years of ownership! And most of that money was in parts, as I'm a mechanic and I did most of the work myself. If you're on a tight budget, or can't do your own repairs, run away from that car as fast as you can!

[@c32amgftw]

Nice videos man! I am really enjoying your channel!

[@PRNTestDrive]

Thanks! We just filmed a C32 AMG yesterday by the way, looking to publish it mid-August.

[@c32amgftw]

PRN I no longer have mine, but it was a fun yet very unreliable car.

[@PRNTestDrive]

That's too bad! We haven't started our research yet on the C32 so we're going to have to look into the reliability issues when we get the video on it ready.

[@c32amgftw]

PRN to save you some time, the major issues are: supercharger bearing. Also there is the notorious intercooler leak that plagues the m112k and m113k and is a pita to fix, the intercooler is inside the V between the cylinders, and has the supercharger on top, so the component most responsible for keeping your engine cool is surrounded by heat, bad idea. The cats often fail. Window regulators. I remember when I sold it back in 09 after owning it for about 3 years the repairs totaled slightly north of $20k, and I did some of the maintenance myself.

[@tonystafford978]

Had an e39 530d m sport imola red how I miss that car so much :( Great review man the e39s are fantastic.

[@PRNTestDrive]

A diesel would be pretty great! It's too bad they never offered them over here. We're hoping to review some newer diesel offerings.

[@TitaniumCountess]

I used to daily drive a 2000 540i 6-speed manual. The M-Sport and regular genuine Sport Package cars have the same suspension. The only functional difference, at least with US versions, is the 17 inch versus 18 inch wheels. The rest is cosmetic. The 540i 6-speed was almost an M5 with 30% of the maintenance costs. It was a brilliant machine, fantastic steering, one of the best manual transmissions to daily drive. I drove a few automatics, and they are a tad slower, but it's not really noticeable from the butt dyno. You need to be counting tenths of a second to really see a difference. So, as far as I'm concerned, the 540i sport pack and M-sport cars are fantastic daily drivers. Decent fuel economy, and also a good deal faster than the 740i Sport Pack cars...

[@frederiquekruger4818]

I really wish I can find a 540i with the 6 speed manual. Where I am from, finding a 540i sport is rare and expensive enough.

[@uncivilizedracer]

I really miss mine and with upgrades the pill was unreal. If it wasn’t for a crack in the block I would have kept the car.

[@y0Special]

@@frederiquekruger4818 convert it man. Where I'm from they never made the manual either. I got the gearbox from germany, the driveshaft from brazil and i had the pedal box and coding stuff myself. It's not that hard to be fair. Just difficult finding the parts. Took me a year to find everything. But it's SO worth it

[@Bahjathaddad]

I owned a 540 M, aside from the few issues in the engine cooling system the car is a thrill to drive.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Glad to hear it! Engine cooling is certainly something that could have been improved on this era of BMW.

[@day2z]

Great review.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Thanks! We'd love to re-do this kind of car today with the format we've been working with for the show.

[@Divine_Serpent_Geh]

Hey Nile! Good to see you have more new material. Obviously they are very different cars, but would you say that the difference in speed/acceleration is great or very little compared to your 7 series? Also, I have to know how that L7 is going to turn out!

[@PRNTestDrive]

I'd say the acceleration feels a lot faster than the 7 Series, helps having a bit of extra power and less weight. The 540i lost traction on our launches, whereas the 7 only spins the wheels on wet road or with DSC disabled.

[@marklaw4435]

The E39 5 series was designed under the direction of Wolfgang Reitzle, but the actual design of the 5 series was penned by one Chris Bangle of E65 66 (7) series and E60 (5) series fame. Bangle didn't actually pen the E65/66 and E60, this was done by one Adrian Van Hooydonk, who was Bangles underling at that particular time. The E38 & E39 are the pinnacle of BMW design language, they are still very good looking cars even now 20 yrs on. Your comments about the steering is interesting, as the V8's were all recirculating ball and nut, which went through a specially designed channel through the sump. All other E39's had rack and pinion steering, which one would think would be the best in the road feel department. Anyway I really enjoyed this trip down memory lane. I purchased a black E39 540i executive trim model, it was a fantastic car. I changed the suspension over to the M Sport spec.....A truly magnificent car.

[@PRNTestDrive]

They really are! One of the best looking cars from the 90s. We still see lots of them on the road.

[@ubiased23]

Best looking bmw

[@PRNTestDrive]

Can't go wrong with BMW's design from the mid 90s, that's for sure.

[@kai-matthiasbast8612]

I just bought one of these 540i sport high tech(australia) absolutely inlove with it

[@PRNTestDrive]

Enjoy it!

[@EBO47]

Hey man I'm my area there is a 540i for sale 1500 only problems are pcv valve and knock sensor is that worth the buy

[@codycrawford2385]

I had a 1999 540i M Sport I loved this car

[@PRNTestDrive]

It really was a treat being able to drive this one and feature it!

[@paullarimore8598]

I smile every time I drive my 99 540i M Sport 6 speed. Did I say every time? Yes!

[@Skycrowe666]

I had one for years from nearly new. Biggest problem is the alternator reliability and the radiators don't last. Still a superb car.

[@PRNTestDrive]

There's certainly a lot that can go wrong, if the only major problem you had was the alternator than it's not bad at all!

[@GENTILJEN]

Hahaha! Love the opening and it's a great video :)

[@PRNTestDrive]

Boooo for editing your comment!

[@desierra99]

I have a 2002 540ia M sport but she needs a lot of TLC,...by which I mean money lol. I have already put in so much money but I can't get myself to sell it, it is such a beautiful car. When I finish school I'm thinking of restoring it. Thanks for the awesome video!

[@PRNTestDrive]

Glad to hear it! These cars are pretty great, and finding them is becoming difficult too. Hopefully you'll be able to put some time into yours the same way we hope for ours too.

[@bigmedge]

Great review, but how is the ride comfort ? Is it bumpy or rough , given the car's sport suspension & low profile tires?

[@PRNTestDrive]

Typical for other BMWs we've driven. I believe we spoke to the handling but might have missed on the suspension. It's firm overall, you definitely feel the road.

[@Studiosatoshi]

I own a 2001 540i with 270000 miles, drives amazing tough engine and still does 140+

[@PRNTestDrive]

Very nice! Glad to hear it's still performing great for you with 270k on the odometer, goes to show that these cars can last if you make them!

[@paullarimore8598]

I have a 99 540 M Sport 6 speed. Got it to 130 then lost my will :) 125,000 miles

[@Krezo200]

E38&E39 - best cars! I just bought my third E39

[@PRNTestDrive]

Yes they are!

[@raffiraffi788]

Brutal gut dieses Auto 👍

[@billyowusu48]

Please do a review on the w211 e55 amg or w211 e63 amg.

[@PRNTestDrive]

We've got them on our list! The W211 is an interesting car, we don't see many E55s of those on the road.

[@berrymucuckiner4890]

The 6sp manual really brings these cars to life

[@PRNTestDrive]

If you can find one that is. They're pretty hard to come by on the market.

[@e30yadig]

love my 540i 6 speed

[@PRNTestDrive]

We would too if we had one!

[@4syth]

The tight steering is a common thing, I have a 2000 528i M Sport and the steering has a heavy tight feel to it when driving and is nice and light when parking, just another reason why E39 is the best 5 series ever.

[@PRNTestDrive]

No doubt! We've got Servotronic steering on our E38 7 Series also.

[@leemurphy5253]

The e39 is such a clean car😍😍

[@PRNTestDrive]

We always get excited when we see one on the road.

[@leemurphy5253]

Perpetual Radio Networks unmistakable looks and brilliant value for money would love a 540i 😍

[@ANDYW031084]

Going to do timing guides tomorrow👍

[@PRNTestDrive]

Good luck, hopefully it works out!

[@jeredhelmbrecht6237]

About to pick up an 03 540i Msport this weekend. Its an automatic but looking to daily it seeing how i already own a 1992 Miata 5speed. Definitely excited to feel the difference in ride quality and hopefully some really good sound cancelation 🤙🔥

[@PRNTestDrive]

Very nice choice! Don't let the automatic get you down either, it's the one I'd go for too. Hopefully it works out for you!

[@jeredhelmbrecht6237]

@@PRNTestDrive Picked it up about 4 hours ago and it was in better condition than i thought 8/10. So far in love

[@hagakuru]

@@jeredhelmbrecht6237 Now how is it 9 months later? Have you loved those chain guides yet - and those Vanos seals are loveable as well?

[@alexwiuker359]

got a 99 540i 6 speed for 2k and a parts car for dirt cheap, the valve covers were off and the cams looked mint so i pulled the motor and am doing a full build. soon to go in my orient blau 540i

[@alexwiuker359]

looking at m60b40 heads for boost!

[@PRNTestDrive]

Nice! Can’t beat that price, hopefully the body is in decent shape. Good luck with the build!

[@Daness74]

You got a new Watcher and Im gonna ask myself:where you've been til today?I enjoy your style of moderating and in this case of the M5 here you were totaly right with: if you got a chance to buy one,buy one!!great Drivers Car!but unfortunately some of them are in real bad conditions - take a good look and better do it twice... Of course the biggest question is the Price,but better pay a few dollars more for shot one with good Substance!

[@PRNTestDrive]

That's definitely true, a lot of these older BMWs and Mercedes models are in very rough shape, we've spotted a few W210 E 55 AMGs on the road with significant rust issues, and this 540i also has some exterior troubles. We see a few E39s on the road from time to time, we'd love to buy one still despite it being a very similar experience to our E38.

[@derrickg5612]

I've got an 03 540 msport 6-SPEED! Just did a muffler delete, and the steering is tight. It's just like that.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Good to know!

[@RedstoneWolf531]

Derrick G muffler delete is so amazing

[@adominable1]

Derrick G post an exhaust video

[@derrickg5612]

Dominic rached, good idea

[@RedstoneWolf531]

How did you get the steering to be tight?

[@jamballkan5926]

I just got one love it

[@PRNTestDrive]

Congrats! Hopefully it treats you well, we really love the E39 especially in this trim/engine combo.

[@TheRafage]

Très bon véhicule 👍👍,nice car 👍👍🚘

[@PRNTestDrive]

Merci!

[@betotalancon8139]

Great review, E39 is the best looking 5 series made! Such a timeless design. Sidenote: it is only refered to "M Sport" within the car community for the '03 facelift. BMW never officially called it as that.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Glad you liked it, thanks.

[@diane4985]

I just picked up my first BMW for 2000 its a 1999 540i e39 automatic w/106k on it only 1 owner. It's stock but I am going to up grade it any recommendations besides a Dinan CAI & stage 2 tuning. I am eventually going to get the hi flow throtle body and try to find the intake manifold upgrade for good price. Any help with this id trully thankful for! Thanks for your time

[@PRNTestDrive]

Very nice! Can't go wrong with that price or mileage, congrats!

[@laplays6916]

Could you do a buyers guide on the e39 5 series v8 models?

[@PRNTestDrive]

If we can find another E39 to feature we'll try to make it happen!

[@BimmerM5e39]

How does this compare to the W210 E55 you drove earlier?

[@PRNTestDrive]

The E55 is definitely faster, the ride is better, and I feel like the seats were better also. The 540i surprised me more though, I wasn't expecting it to be as fast as it was. I think if we had the opportunity to put both on the track it would be a close race.

[@gidleyw]

Are those stock headlights? I didn't know halo lights went on the 2001 e39s

[@PRNTestDrive]

Might be, but at the very least they're off a 2003 and just retrofitted.

[@praneeith55]

When I see a Canadian video, I like

[@PRNTestDrive]

I’m the same way, thanks!

[@kerrynitzsche4841]

Love this car!!! Been looking for one around 7K based on kbb value. it’s so timeless in style and the engine! anyone here have an after market head unit and recommendations?

[@PRNTestDrive]

I’ve seen quite a few Android based units for sale that have a similar design style to the OEM widescreen navigation units. I’d definitely recommend looking into something like that!

[@YungTbroo]

Just gotta 01 540i/a m sport out here in sac for $2000 just needed a new expansion tank i got the m style 37s on mine though

[@PRNTestDrive]

Not bad at all!

[@bagato]

Man, I am undecided... since you drove both, I would like your opinion, I want another fast sedan and its either the GS400 or the 540i. I used to have an Alpina B10 4.6 and had to sell it due to finantial problems, and now its impossible to buy it back because of the market value on those. I like the looks of the e39 better, but then lexus reliability, they seem to be pretty even performance wise.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Performance would probably be pretty even, whether you're looking at two completely stock cars or what's available by boosting things in the aftermarket for either. It's true that the looks of the E39 are incredible, but the GS 400 is harder to find, I spot them maybe once or twice a year, I can count how many I've seen since I filmed the 98 a few years ago on one hand, whereas the E39 is a little more common. Personally if it were my money and both were available configured the way I'd want them and pricing was about the same, I'd take the Lexus.

[@RedstoneWolf531]

Are there different "m-sport levels"? I looked up the vin and it showed my options and showed the m-sport package, but my car doesn't have some things like the m trim under the doors. Got my 2001 540i 6 speed msport for $5,300 and did $600 in maintenance (on the engine, car was in great shape otherwise). Man do I love it

[@PRNTestDrive]

From the research we did a true M Sport should have all the options we listed off, as BMW also offered a regular Sport model for the E39 which might have technically added the 'M Sport' package. We didn't get a definitive answer though during our research, lots of conflicting data out there since these cars really came out before the internet was a big deal.

[@RedstoneWolf531]

PRN ok. Yeah I kinda came across the same thing. Just was wondering if some day I ever had to sell it (really hope I never have to) if I should list it as a m-sport. I guess I will because as you said it is in sorts a m-sport. Thanks!

[@mchai824]

if you live in states, all 2001 model calls sport only, if you want true M sport you will need to get the 2003 model instead, hope that answer your question

[@NearTheLimits]

the seats' leather upholstery has seen better days.

[@Santi_Mancini]

What are the pros and cons vs E39 M5 on reliability, performance and consumption? Is the M5 really worth it or is the 540i a good balance of these 3 items?

[@PRNTestDrive]

This one would likely be better for reliability, as the M5s or any older M Car is going to get pushed hard by previous owners.

[@troylogan3653]

Just bought a 03 540i msport automatic. I purchased it from the auction, it said it was running and when I won the bid I realized that it needed the timing chain repair. Over all the car cosmetically it's in decent shape. I ha e it at my buddy's garage and were in the process of doing the work. I'm planning on keeping it for a long time so I'm willing to put the work in. Alpine white grey interior

[@PRNTestDrive]

Hopefully you can get the chain job done easily enough and get it on the road to enjoy it! Sounds like a good deal on it, especially if you’re able to do as much of the work yourself as possible.

[@troylogan3653]

@@PRNTestDrive Thanks just ordered the parts, I will keep you posted

[@troylogan3653]

Just finished the chain guides and waterpump and other random things. Only thing is its idle isn't smooth I think the timing is off, I may have to take it to an indy shop since I dont have the bmw specific timing tools. V ed ry excited though, shes getting close hopefully I will be enjoying this car very soon.

[@troylogan3653]

Car is running great. Super excited

[@PRNTestDrive]

@@troylogan3653 glad to hear it!

[@diettmann88]

i really hope you get the opportunity to take an e39 m5 for a drive!

[@PRNTestDrive]

It's on our list to feature!

[@MWhite-dv1uu]

All aluminum CSF radiator was a God send

[@Greenlightdayglodist]

Loved it

[@PRNTestDrive]

Glad to hear it!

[@daniel.g1208]

buddy nice video respect !! salut

[@PRNTestDrive]

Glad you liked it, thanks! We love filming these classics.

[@kevinchiu627]

Wow~~it’s amazing that people still making comments on this review after a year and half later

[@PRNTestDrive]

Not to mention the views too! People are seriously interested still in these older German cars, we're happy that it remains one of the most popular episodes for us in 2018.

[@kevinchiu627]

Let me know when you are planning to come back to Toronto bro, got some cars here waiting for you~, and by the way happy new year and all the best

[@epicon6]

Kevin Chiu the intrest will only increase as good one get rare and more expensive

[@rockers2rockers616]

If you can get your mits on one of these then snag it! These cars are a real drivers machine and are a joy to drive even when driven to the edge. Get one asap!

[@PRNTestDrive]

Can't agree more!

[@rockers2rockers616]

When I look at European cars from this era I always search the price of the car at the time it was new. And with this motorcar the price is telling you that you are getting into one hell of motorcar. This is a true sports sedan and believe me when I say that they will never build such a motorcar again. Even the standard 540i is amazing. In Australia we supercharge them. I'm serious! These V8s are tough as and supercharged?! Forget about it!

[@ViperGTS737]

My dream car, I have a 2010 E90 330i but I always wanted a E39 540i, but I’m scared of the M52 chain guide woes

[@PRNTestDrive]

The job seems hard but apparently if you know what you're doing it's not that bad overall.

[@ViperGTS737]

@@PRNTestDrive sadly i dont know how ot replace them and its an expensive job to have it done

[@sonnyblack0870]

God that’s a beautiful car... I love the e60; however only with M package otherwise I hate its styling, and a mint 2010 e60 550i would have it’s desires over a mint 2002 540i, but I think the 540i would win me over in the end. Could be the best ever luxury sport sedan in it’s simplistic yet perfect execution of that formula.

[@PRNTestDrive]

I remember when the first 550i came out, I was in love.

[@trevorjermaine3511]

Would love to see a Lexus LS400 on this channel, i think it fits the criteria perfectly!!! Or LS430

[@PRNTestDrive]

We'd love to get Lexus on this Channel too! Finding the older one's isn't hard, since they last a lot longer than the Mercs or BMW, but most owners are original, and don't understand why we want to review their car :P

[@trevorjermaine3511]

Aww that makes sense, well keep up the good work!! I love seeing reviews on cars that myself and most people could actually afford.

[@samuelrolando7340]

I personally like the transmission used in the 97 model better that what I have but I had a 2000 and I just didn’t like how it wouldn’t stay in the gear

[@PRNTestDrive]

Fair enough!

[@SKATING4LIFE0000]

What's your thoughts on 540i vs w202 c43 amg?

[@PRNTestDrive]

It's hard to fully compare the two since they're different segments, the 540i being a larger car but both with similar engines. The C43 was a bigger surprise since it's size made the car feel faster. I'd probably take the Mercedes if both were available at the same price/condition.

[@EthanL21800]

The torque in this car is what reallt makes it haul ass

[@exque5305]

What's the highest mileage you'd consider acceptable to purchase this as a daily, looking at a 2003 540i M sport with 170k miles but dont want a reliability nightmare

[@PRNTestDrive]

High mileage isn't always a bad thing, but it's the service history that's the most important. A 20+ year old car with low mileage might not have had regular service, especially time-based critical maintenance done to it so you might end up spending more. 170k seems like an average amount of mileage, I'd strongly suggest having it looked at by a trusted mechanic no matter what.

[@rebmaster899]

whats the type of black used in your car? i love it and am planning to change mines color.

[@PRNTestDrive]

I believe both were Cosmos Black.

[@rebmaster899]

@@PRNTestDrive thanks alot bro.

[@pssangha1805]

I recognized those roads! Brampton? or like the Toronto area

[@PRNTestDrive]

Close! These shots were all filmed in Oakville.

[@sergiuluca3714]

540i M sport is different than a regular 540i or 740i: it has a lower axle ratio, high stall torque converter and transmission is programmed to shift late, among other things.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Some of the reasons why the M Sport is such a popular car for enthusiasts to find!

[@diane4985]

I have a 1999 540i w/ 106k has a automatic and am getting upgrades threw my local Dinan shop here in the bay area CA . was not familiar with the lower axle ratio or the converter . would you recomend I get those for my car ? Next week im getting the dinan cai and stage 2 software then the automatic trans software. Any recommendations would be helpful. Thank you

[@thetruth7633]

540i + LSD + HR + MT + Turbo and you are king

[@b33gft67]

I miss my old 1998 540i 6 speed. It did have the comfort seats though, which weren't my favorite.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Comfort seats aren't too bad, but getting some E38 seats in it would be better. We're still hoping to try the sport seats from an E38.

[@95steeptech]

PRN love your vids. I have an 01 740i sport in imola red. Would love to see a head to head comparison with a 540i sport

[@PRNTestDrive]

So would we!

[@WiZdOm17]

3:01... There is no storage under that arm rest buddy. I know... I've tugged on mine so often by mistake lol

[@mrmar6938]

I have a topaz blue with black interior 540i ///M package 6 speed manual bone stock with 87k on it love this car lots of power I wonder how rare are they now and what’s the going price is ???

[@PRNTestDrive]

Very nice! Prices are going up for cars like that, especially a manual, and especially with low mileage like that. BringATrailer.net is where most of these classics get sold now, they usually keep the historical sales data, and I know a number of these have passed through there.

[@mrmar6938]

Perpetual Radio Networks thank you for the info

[@colmfarrel4742]

what happened to the cruise stream yesterday?

[@PRNTestDrive]

We're not 100% sure, but we're extremely disappointed. The entire 20 minutes were narrated however our little Samsung didn't connect properly to our microphone. We had to delete the video as an audio-less tour was pretty useless. Hoping to run some tests and make the next one perfect!

[@colmfarrel4742]

PRN ah was looking forward to watching that no worries.

[@CreativeComander]

My First car was a 528i from 1999 it was so Hot with his 255/40r17 in the back and 235/45r17 in Front I Really Love car that have bigger backwhweels than Front Wheels!

[@PRNTestDrive]

So do we! Staggered setups are still a relatively uncommon thing to find these days.

[@yusufbrownhawkel4053]

I have a 540i with the sport package it's a touring that take off strong it's the 3:15 diff

[@PRNTestDrive]

Very nice! The diff certainly helps.

[@frankjamesbonarrigo7162]

What year did these start sucking? is a 2003 same as a 2001?

[@PRNTestDrive]

I think from an appearance perspective the 2003s were basically the same. They added the DVD navigation system in 2002 and tiny appearance changes in 2003.

[@realbadtech9318]

I just bought an E36 M3, how does the 540 compare as far as power and feel? Thinking about picking up a 540i wagon to daily

[@jtking4842]

Chris Fortney You can clearly tell it’s a bigger car. It just feels more solid, and you really feel it pull. I’ve never driven the wagon, so can’t really account for it exactly.

[@PRNTestDrive]

We still haven't had the pleasure of driving the E36 in any format, but like JT King mentioned it'll feel bigger, and likely a little more modern since the E36 was replaced halfway through the E39's life.

[@Kiwittgmail]

Can you do a E90 330i test drive with the N52 engine and not the direct injection N53? I have a 2006 BMW 330i M-Sport and feel it compares favorably with the 540i M-Sport, as the performance is similar.

[@PRNTestDrive]

We'd love to! We're working to find cars like this to feature on here. The E90 has been on our list for quite some time now.

[@Kiwittgmail]

Pity you can't come to New Zealand and see mine

[@PRNTestDrive]

Maybe one day!

[@elijahberezin7407]

how many miles does it have and do you know if it was reliable to the owner

[@mchai824]

hi, I'm the owner of this 540i M sport, car has over 250,000 km at the moment, car is relatively reliable, maintenance up to date, so far I just got the secondary air pump replaced, valve cover gasket and most importantly the timing chain rail guide replaced. Owning many BMWs from the past I would say this one is pretty reliable compare to a lot of newer models, especially to our E65 745li, that thing is a pain in the ass....

[@mickeycseki649]

Is there any manual in Canada ?

[@PRNTestDrive]

Absolutely!

[@billg2025]

I have an 01 540i with the six speed. Black on black. I'd kill for the black alcantara headliner.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Nice! Might be able to DIY it, probably easier to source than OEM.

[@iman-mpc6246]

Man that thing is slow I bought one last year but I love it

[@PRNTestDrive]

Any of these older German cars are painfully slow compared to their modern counterparts, the quest for more power has gone nuts in the past few years.

[@elementkx]

There are a hella lot of traffic on your "closed course" lol. Anyways, Iove my 540 touring (except when its in the shop).

[@PRNTestDrive]

Can't beat a V8 wagon!

[@elementkx]

@@PRNTestDrive Yes, and better weight distribution than the sedan.

[@gustavocobra77]

i have a black 525 wagon, best car ever. Simply not selling it for any reason

[@PRNTestDrive]

Glad to hear that! Keep it as long as you can.