Well, I spent months deciding what vehicle to buy after selling my '99 F150 SCab to my brother. I really wanted a new SCrew with a 6.5 bed, or fully opening doors on a SCab (like Nissan's Titan) Since neither of these will be available in the near future, I looked at cars. I'll buy an older (mid 90's) truck for haulin'.

I test drove a Chrysler 300C (with the hemi) and a couple used BMW 540's. I ended up buying an '02 540. Almost 300 horsepower with a 6 speed manual - fun to drive. Hopefully in a couple years, when I'm yearning for a new truck again, Ford will be ready.

 

Tpetty,
I did the oppisite, I was really looking hard at the BMW 545i, then I got impatient and had a hard time paying retail for a BMW since my brother works for Ford. The truck rides great, but it is not a BMW on the long trips and in the tight cities I regret not waiting, come fall during hunting season I will be ok with the truck

 

I was not looking for either. They were deals that I just couldn't pass up. I now have an 04 FX4 and an 03 530i. Very beautiful combination. I suggest you all complete it when you can. It feels very rewarding.
tpetty, how much fun is it having 282hp and 325ft-lbs torque at you disposal? I was so close in a 540i too, but was countered offer by some punk! I still love the 530i.

 

I have an 04 supercab lariat 4x4 and my wife has a 2000 323 I, man I am dying for a 540, those are great car, sedan/sports car

 

04 Lariat Screw & 325i here... best of both worlds...

 

Just curious, if you have come across any BMW on-line forums that provide useful informaiton and guidance such as FTE. If so, pls let me know the web-site?

 

I'm on http://www.hotbimmer.net/forum

Pretty good board... been a little slow lately, though. Mods are great and a number of folks know their stuff... but I mainly hang out in the E46 forums... not sure about you 5 series guys.

 

dmnj and dzervit,

When I used to own my X5, I found that the best online forums for BMW were at: http://www.roadfly.org/bmw/forums/

Sometimes, they can be a little childish, but LOADS of info.

Hope this helps,
Mike

 

Roadfly has a lot of posts, but the best forum I've found is bimmerfest.com
A lot of knowledgable guys, and the dealers that frequent the site will run Carfax VINs for you, etc. Just a lot of good info and helpful responses - much like this site

 

Oh, and they boosted the HP to 290. With the 6 speed manual - FUN & Responsive. (I chose the '02 over a new '04 not only for the $ savings, but I think they look better.)