2003 BMW 525i Reviews

Possibly the nicest looking car on the road.

The BMW E39 chassis (5-series, 1997-2003 models) were some of the best cars of their time, and highly respected among enthusiasts.

Ranging from the "economical" 6-cylinder models: the 2.5L 528i / 525i (1997-2000 / 2001-2003, respectively), the well-balanced 3.0L 530i (2001+)...to the powerful V8 models (292-HP 540i, and 400 HP M5)...these cars are very rewarding to drive.

The 525i is a bit lacking in the power department; but (M5 excluded), handles the best due to it's fiairly light weight, well-engineered suspension, steering and brakes, and perfect 50/50 weight distribution.
V8 models are powerful, and a 6-speed manual transmission was available all model years.

Reliability isn't great, and these cars require a lot of attention....but you get it all back with a superior driving experience.
Suspension bushings, shock absorbers, and key cooling system components have a short lifespan (60,000mi), and brakes / tires wear out fast if driven hard. Rear wheels have negative camber, causing uneven wear (on the inside), but provide better handling.

Expect to pay between $2000 and $5000 in maintanance and repair per year / 12,000mi (without a warranty or maintenance plan).

its the bollocks top quality best bmw to date
£47500 car for what u get them for now its an unbelievable amount of car for the money you will pick one up for i suggest everyone get one but get th m5 if u can

I love the car but..,it has a gutless engine, still runs like a top though. Driving the car at 110 mph the other day and the car was still eagerly pulling (like it wanted to go faster) It still amazes me everyday even though the biggest dissapointment is its gutless engine.

I enjoy driving this car after hauling the kids around in a YukonXL.  It is nice to be able to fit into parking spots and zip around cars on the highway.....