Hi everybody, I just registered and this is my first post.

I currently have a BMW 5-series (e39 chassis) that I like a lot.

I need another car and have been assuming that I would get a used e39, either a 530 or 540, maybe a 2003, as this is the last year of the e39.

I have begun to notice the TLs, and have heard great things about them, and there is nothing tying me to another BMW. Front wheel drive is fine with me, and the TL seems to have all the nice features and functions of the BMW. I think I can afford a 2004 or maybe a 2005 TL.

What I am wondering is if any of you have had an e39 BMW. If so, how would you compare your experience with your TL to your BMW? I don't drive a car real hard, but I do like the good performance of the BMW, as well as the high quality materials and workmanship, rock-solid feel, and precision . We do quite a lot of long, over-the-road trips, so comfortable seating is a big deal.

I would appreciate any comparisons you can provide.

Thanks,
BillK

 

you should pm ballinfizzle89 i believe he had an e39 5 series before he bought his TL

 

Welcome!!!

 

welcome to the forum - I think this should be in car talk

 

i have a 2004 bmw 530i also and i like the drive of the tl more. the bmw is really heavy.

 

I used to own an 2004 TL with A-spec (traded it at 45K miles for a 2007 BMW 550i) and an e39 540 (sold) so I can give you some comparisons:

TL:
Pros:
Good handling (for a front wheel drive)
Reliability
Ergonomic

Cons:
No low-end torque (after you hit 2500 rpm then it'll take off)
Nose heavy
Understeer (typical for front wheel drive)

BMW e39:
Pros:
Great handling, very precise with excellent feedback.
Power delivery is more linear (with either I-6 or V-8)
Weight distribution is more balance

Cons:
Reliability (mostly electrical problems)
Interior design seems like an afterthought.
Ergonomic

If I don't have the TL any more, why the heck am I here? Well, I bought a RDX as my "snowmobile" and stumbled across your post (on my way to RDX forum).

 

Forgot to mention that the TL has an excellent audio system and offer the best value for your money!

 

imo you will never get the same feeling as you will in a Brim Mwim Wakawak but atleast you know that you drive a car that will outlast many others on the road

 

Welcome. Try a search. This post will probably be locked pretty soon. You may get better answers in the Car Talk section.

 

I would get the 5 series sport edition ... but how much are u lookin to spend anyways??

 

In the spring of '05, my wife's '96 328i automatic blew a water pump (plastic impeller) and this was the last straw. That car seemed to love to go to the auto shops, to the tune of thousands of dollars in abnormal maintenance. So we got her an '05 TL automatic (I have an '04 manual). The difference is amazing. The TL handles better (yes, it really does quite better than her 328i), feels more solid, is quite a bit quicker, and its just better all around.

 

Please continue this discussion in Car Talk in the Off Topic section of the forum. Since we can't move threads there, feel free to restart the discussion.