Description:
Minor equipment shuffling is the main 2003 change of note as BMWs midrange line prepares for a model-year-2004 redesign. The 525i sedan and wagon use a 2.5-liter inline 6-cyl engine, the 530i sedan a 3.0 version. The 540i sedan and wagon have a 4.4-liter V8. The high-performance M5 sedan comes only with a 4.9-liter V8 and manual transmission. Other versions offer manual or automatic with standard or extra-cost manual shift gate, depending on model. All 5s include an antiskid system, front side airbags, and front head-protecting tubular side airbags. Rear torso and head-protecting side airbags are standard on the M5 and optional on other models. All 6-cyl models add a standard sunroof for 03. And now standard on the manual-transmission 540i sedan and optional on other 540i models is a new Sport Package with 18-inch wheels, front spoiler, and sport suspension.
2003 BMW 5 Series
Rating:
One of BMW's best, as long as it was serviced properly
pros: Excellent Handling Comfortable on long trips One of BMW's best engines
cons: Parts can be pricey Back seat not so roomy Cooling system replacement at 80k? Really?
Rating:
Simply Flawless
pros: Since April 2003 zero maintenance, no complaints! Six year warranty; free service during warranty.
cons: None.
Rating:
The 2003 BMW 530i in late 2005
pros: The 2003 BMW 530i is the finest car Consumer Reports has ever tested.
cons: I should have bought a new 2003 BMW 530i in 2003.
Rating:
BMW 5 series saftey(540i)
pros: KEPT US ALIVE
cons: umm.... BMWs cost alot to fix...even if insurance picks it up...
Rating:
Never thought I'd love the 530i more than my VW!
pros: Luxurious, accelerates with ease, lots of features/options, SUV type options, lots of cargo space, QUIET
cons: Poor interior storage, poorly marked interior controls, expensive to buy and keep up
Rating:
BMW 2003 530i vs. 540i (automatic transmission)
pros: 540i is tremendously faster than 530i, though 530i is still impressive.
cons: Sport seats matched with sport handling make for a rough ride. Comfort seats are preferable.
Rating:
The 2003 BMW 5 Series (530i): Avoid At All Costs Unless.....
pros: Fast, quiet, roomy, sound system, smooth, features galore
cons: Blind spots, not as comfortable as it should be
Rating:
BMW 530i (manual transmission)
pros: Classic styling, wonderful engine lineup, one of the finest manual trans.
cons: Classic (read old) styling, dated looking instrument cluster
