browsing for a new-to-me car.. recommendations?

[zilla]

I've been kicking the tires and shopping for a new-to-me car and I've managed to make a short list of 2 cars:

2001.5 Audi S5
1999-2000 BMW 540i

My basic requirements are: 4 doors, power, manual tranny (6 speed would be nice - dunno if this is an option on the 540i or only on the M5) and if possible under 30k. I don;'t know much about the 5 series, but is there any difference between the 540i and 528i besides engine size? is the 2.8 straight 6 powerful enough for a car of that size? am i missing any cars in this class? I'm not THAT keen on mercedes.

I know of the S4's issues with turbos blowing up due to owner negligence, but do the 540i's have any issues? how's the maintenance on them? What about tuning potential?

Thanks

Tim

[Tuna]

Re: browsing for a new-to-me car.. recommendations?

I'm pretty sure there is one major issue on the 540's, I believe it's headgasket, it's something cooling related anyway. Sorry I can't remember EXACTLY what the problem is but that should give you a start. I do know this is only on the 540's though (V8) and not the whole 5 series line.