Re: Hey Don, does your 2000 528i wagon...... (archive)

My 528iT is a Steptronic 5-speed Auto, and it is pretty nice, but obviously slower than the 540. The GM transmission isn't bad, but honestly I think the ZF 5-speed auto shifts smoother and more resonsively. The Steptronic is pretty much of a gimmick started by Porsche, and BMW had to offer it just to remain competitive. From what I understand, Steptronic had been developed by ZF for BMW a few years before Audi started offering Tiptronic, but BMW decided not to market it for whatever reason. Tiptronic was a hit, so off the shelf it came. It was available in Europe since the late '80s or early '90s I believe. The BMW 8 series was the first BMW to offer it in the US.

Regarding the 540i, it was a special order through some connections I have. Basically they ordered the Sport suspension. I did not get (or want) the sport seats. I probably should have waited another year, as my 540 did have its share of problems. If you are in the market for a used 540 or 528, I strongly suggest you look at a '98 or newer and don't even think of getting one without some sort of long-term warranty.

: : I have both a 540iA Sport ('97) and a 528iT ('00) If I only had one car, it would be the 540, hands down. The steering in the 528i is indeed more direct and I like it, but overall the 540's engine feels (and even sounds) so much better.

: : : I am looking at both the 1997 528 5 speed and the 540/6. the price gap is huge almost ten grand.

: : : anyone drive a 528 recently trade up to a 540 and was it worth it in dreve pleasure?

: Have a 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic or 5-speed steptronic automatic transmission? Also, how did you get a 1997 540i automatic sedan with the sport package? If I remember correctly, the only 1997 E39 5 Series that had the sport package was the 540i 6-speed sedan (where it was standard).

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