XSeries-forum

Hi all,

Going to look at a few e53's this weekend. Is there much difference between the 2.9 / 3.0 diesels?

Early ones are 186bhp up to the facelift when they went to 218bhp.  1999-2003 5sp, late 2003 onwards (face lifted only) 6sp gearbox.  I think face lifts will be 2004 deliveries but there might be some pre-facelift that late on.  Orange indicator lenses and the quickest spot.

The engine is basically the same 1984ish or 1993 cc capacity.  Tuning is the big difference.

Go for the facelift 2004 on. Better gearbox  ( 6 speed, more reliable than pre facelift 5 speed )218 bhp 500 NM torque. Most are Sport models.
There's a lot of rough ones out there, walk away. Make sure you get it up to temperature and that the gearbox is smooth when changing.
Read the buyers guide in the E53 section, under forum tab . On the sticky posts.
Good luck.

http://xdrivers.co.uk/forum/index.php/t ... html#msg85

Completely agree with Horizon, get a facelift if possible.

There are a lot of rough ones out there, and E53's are now in the price bracket where people can afford the car but not the required maintenance cost, but there are also some gems out there if you can find one of them.

Check all electrics work properly, and usual things liker uneven tire wear. Before it is started, check distance between rear wheel and arch to see if any issue with self levelling suspension.

Good luck, likely to be the best car you've ever owned if you get a good one.

I disagree get the best deal look for service history and overall condition if you shop around parts can be found cheap I've just bought 8 new parking sensors off eBay and all plastics to house them from BMW 12 pieces all in 203 quid that's not bad you can do a coil conversion for 200 quid then sell compressor etc for at least 120 keep an open mind if a private sale see how the guy talks about the car you will know if he's cared for it by his manner good luck mate there a great car enjoy