Matt,
The interior panels on my car are good as new and they feel..quality. The only problem I have is the wood trim along the dash, door and on the center console. The dash trims feel like they were attached with two-sided tape and the varnish is cracked in one piece. My leather is still good, but a bit dry, because I don't do anything to it. Some wear on the drivers left bolter, normal. Carpet is very nice. The headliner is not the greatest material, but I don't see it or feel it. I've taken one door apart to replace a busted window (Valentine 1 theft!) and the design made it very easy to do. The panel and trim fit right back into place like it was never undone. In some ways, better than Porsche quality.
The ride is wonderful with my M Sport suspension. There isn't a whole lot to dislike about the E39. I think they are the best 5 series. I'd like a 550i, but can't get over the interior design. I have grown to like the exterior design, but the interior isn't as about the driver as the E39. Paint is probably better on the E39 than on later models, not as orange peeled as the newer jobs. No creaks or rattles...10 years old and 115,000 miles. When I bought it 4 or 5 years ago, my father-in-law used it for a few days when he was in town, and he absolutely thought it was new. He was blown away when my wife told him I spent 1/2 of what he spent on his RAV4. LOL.
I kid about getting rid of it. I really can't see myself doing it. It's paid for and any repair to come is acceptable. It won't cost me more than a new car, and the quality, design and driver acommodation/synchronization can't be had for cheap with a newer car. I don't feel like I'm driving a 4 door but there is room for two car seats and a third child in the middle of the back seat. The trunk is more than I need day to day (I can get luggage and 3 golf bags in there!), and I get 25 MPG during my 75 mile a day commute. When I want to play, I just keep the rev up and it satisfies. I cruise comfortable at 70-80 mph without feeling unplanted nor unsafe if I have to react. Steering feel is great and sporty.
I'd recommend a Sport model. 5-speed Sports are not easy to find in good condition. I almost settled for an automatic, and I almost gave up my search for an E39. I really wanted a silver with black interior, but this Oriental Blue one I have has really maintained its appeal.
poor Iphone pic:
