I find it hard to believe that the E34 540's were mostly auto. Have you checked all the auction websites as well as BMWUSA certified pre-owned inventory? In response to your question, look carefully at the maintenance records and have the car inspected before you buy. THere's no reason the 91 M5 is a lemon if it's been well maintained. I have a question that I have asked many about and gotten totaly different responses. I have a certain amount of money to spend on a car (Obviously), and I have been lookin at the 1995 BMW 540i 6 speed. The 540's of this time are mostly Automatic, very few are 6-speed. Keeping this in mind I took a look at the 1991 M5, (Because they are pretty similar cars - E34). I really don't want an automatic BMW, but I also don't want the high cost of repair for the 10 year old M5. What do you think? Is it worth the extra time in the shop for the manual or should I go with the auto? And which car do you think is better? Thanks