BMW 540i 1999 vs 2000?

[daveyoder]

I'm considering buying a 540i 6-speed manual w/sport package. Question is, is there any real difference between a 1999 model and a 2000? Are there any documented problems with the '99 that we corrected with the '00 version?

[csieminski]

The only change I'm aware of is that xenon headlights, which had been optional on the 1999 540's, became standard on the 2000's. Also, I think the 2000's got optional 17" 5-parallel-spoke alloys. 17" 15-radial-spoke alloys were standard both years.

If you can, get a 2001--if you're unaware, those got the angel-eyes headlights and LED taillights with clear turn signals. Of course, if you buy a 2000, you can upgrade later--Bavarian Autosport carries that stuff.

Also, I have a 1999 BMW 5-Series brochure I got from the dealership (this was just before I bought my 1986 528e ) I REALLY LOVE the 1997-2003 5's, and the 540i 6-speeds are #1 on my most-coveted-somewhat-reasonable-car list. If you want it, I can send you my beloved brochure.

[hurley9192]

I got the 2000 540 and will upgrade the lights for much cheaper than buying the 2001 model. The difference in price is much more than the upgrades and the upgrades are pretty much plug and play.

[JSvenson]

Originally Posted by csieminski

The only change I'm aware of is that xenon headlights, which had been optional on the 1999 540's, became standard on the 2000's. Also, I think the 2000's got optional 17" 5-parallel-spoke alloys. 17" 15-radial-spoke alloys were standard both years.

Id love a brochure. Wasnt the bumper a little bit longer aswell? and i think the side skirts were a bit different. Maybe im just an idiot.

[csieminski]

I don't think the side skirts really changed, but the 2001's got body-colored instead of black plastic inserts in the front and rear bumpers, as well as along the "bump strips" on the sides of the car. The 2001 7-Series got body-colored rocker panels (side skirts) where there had been black plastic ones on the 1995-2000 versions.

I'm really not a fan of the black plastic stuff on any car. My 1990 Legend is white, and the black plastic stuff looks OK when it's shiny, but generally detracts from the appearance of the car. The redesigned 1991 and 1992 Legends retained the plastic inserts, but around 1993 Acura went to body-colored ones. BMW apparently didn't get the idea until 2001.