[5String43]

We had ours from new in 2003 until last year. Put 140,000 miles on it. That proved to be too many, as in spite of careful maintenance and upkeep, it began deteriorating under us. It was a magnificent car until then, however, very comfortable and a joy to drive. Handling and feel were both brilliant. So was the quality of both exterior and interior finish. Stereo was terrible. The damned thing thought it was a sports car, as it had the M-sport option - along with wide tires, which became very noisy as they wore. But it was very expensive to maintain. At 60,000 miles the front suspension bushings needed to be replaced, and from that point, the hits just kept on happening. Idler on the serpentine belt system went south, doing collateral damage. Couple of thou to fix all that. Brakes were about 1,200 a hit, just for the fronts, and that happened every 30,000 miles or so. Mind you, we had this car serviced at the dealer, having had a belly full of dishonest independent wrenches. I suppose an independent might have been somewhat less expensive. Still, overall, wifey and I both think it was the best car we've ever owned. Traded it for a new 3-series sedan she calls "the magic carpet." But given what we spent over the years on the E39, this one we're leasing. We shall see whether that was a wise move.