2003 BMW 5-Series

Sedan

V8

Manual

WBADN53413GF71099

Clear

Listed is my 2003 BMW 540 M Sport 6 speed in Sterling Gray metallic over black leather. I have owned the car just over one year. Previous owner from 2013 - 2017 added 90,000 miles daily commuting on the PA turnpike - highway miles. Service records are limited to the noted replacement clutch kit, flywheel and rear main seal completed in 2017 at 185,000 miles. Recent service at 192,800 miles included new front Ate rotors, fresh synthetic oil/filter change, new cabin filters, and driver's airbag replacement done under factory recall. As noted in the Carfax the previous owner was involved in an accident resulting in damage to the front spoiler and hood which was repaired through his insurance in 2013. Cosmetically, the paint is overall in good, presentable condition. There are two small areas of rust showing which are shown in the pictures. The passenger side rear quarter panel above the bumper surround has a rust spot blistering as well as on the driver's side front rocker panel (approx. quarter sized). There are a couple of very minor door and 1 trunk lid dings that could be removed with pdr. A new, sealed aerosol can of matching touch up paint from Bavarian is included. The front of the hood and front spoiler suffer from road rash and would benefit from a respray which is what I had planned if keeping the car. The glass, brightwork/shadowline trim and seals are clean and presentable. The driver's door mirror glass is beginning to delaminate around the edges. Clean undercarriage. The 18" M Parallel staggered wheels are in very presentable condition with one front showing only minor outer lip scuffing. See pics for close ups. Tires are recently installed Continental DWS's with excellent tread life - 10/32, 265/35/18 rear, and 7/32, 235/40/18 front. Interior condition is very nice overall. Very clean headliner, rear shelf, carpet, BMW floor mats, dash, door cards, M sills, and gauges. Leather surfaces of front and rear (split fold down option) seats also in excellent condition. Outer bolster of driver's seat is worn as seen in close up picture. Passenger seat twist on passenger side recline but otherwise adjust and operate properly. There is a DIY video on how to repair the seat twist which costs zero but requires a couple hours of time...which I do not have. All instruments, gauges, and controls (ie one touch windows, sunroof, locks) function properly with exception of FM radio and heated seats - do not warm. The FM antenna seems to be disconnected. AM and CD only. Mechanically the 540i runs very strong and quiet. No noise from engine (chain guides likely already done but no records to be certain), good, smooth shift/synchos and clutch engagement and a fun, fast, tight sedan to drive. A/C blows cold. New front brakes - stops quick, straight and smoothly. Engine appears dry with no signs of oil/fluid leaks. Synthetic Mobil I/Mann filter change just performed. I purchased the car and immediately stored it with the intention to refurbish it while driving over time. Remaining items on my checklist: Hood/spoiler respray, repair 2 small rust spots, new windshield gasket, repair driver's seat bolster and passenger recline cable and replace/repair trunk release. Overall, this M Sport 6 speed represents the best of the e39's and despite the miles, it presents as a good solid overall driver that could be taken up a level with some attention to the aforementioned paintwork and other minor needs (driver's seat side bolster) should the next owner choose to invest the time and $. As a critical judge of paint finish, I would categorize this M Sport as a presentable driver from a visual perspective and it runs and drives as if it has less than half the indicated mileage. If you are looking for a real deal e39 540i M Sport 6 speed in a desirable color for a bargain price, this might be your car. The reserve is realistically set to sell as I'm losing indoor storage for it and the 540 needs to move before winter. Intact tool kit, original spare, full factory issued owners manuals included. Please contact me with questions and I will do my best to quickly and accurately respond. I am hoping it will go to a fellow enthusiast ( I am a 25+ year BMWCCA member) who will have the time and interest in bringing this special 5'er back to its former glory. Clean PA title in my name ready to transfer.