GO E34! I'll take Tim's first 2 arguments for the E34 - but

There is one counterbalance in favor of the new(est) e39's -

Enough talk about the Ellipsoids here on our e34's. Let's somebody try to get that excellent ringed-headlight effect!

Micah O'C
'92 525iT - Not even ellipsoids *snif*

You should buy an E34 because it is reached a point in the depreciation cycle where it is very affordable. In other words, they're a lot cheaper.

You should buy and E34 because it is better looking than an E39.

You should buy an E39 because it is a newer chassis, it is stiffer than the E34, and it has options that weren't available on E34s (navigation, sport packages on all models, sunshades, side air bags, and many more).

You should buy an E39 because the V8s don't have the Nikasil problem.

If you can afford either, the E39 really is an improved car. But it'll never be as handsome as the E34!

Tim T