Anyone got/owned a E34 540i/6 speed manual? Need some advise

[bmwsport]

Got my eye on one at the minute

From your experiences what are the pro's and con's of these cars in terms of running costs (parts, fuel consumption etc), common reliability issues, specifications etc. Is there anything in particular to look out for and what year did they stop producing the 540i's without the nikasil bore lining? Would a '95 car still be in danger of not having the revised Alusil version of this engine?

Wikipedia states the max fuel consumption is just under 30mpg on a run which would make it about as economical as my sport

Is this true!? If so that is fantastic considering it is about as quick as the E34 3.6 M5 without the price tag, fuel consumption, insurance and running costs.

Thanks

[Morat]

Our E39 540i 6 speed touring has managed an average of 24.9 mph according to the OBC since it was bought (three weeks ago). We live out in the country and it has been used for (very) short commutes twice a day, long motorway thrashes and A road sweepers. It isn't getting ragged - because you need an autobahn for that. I'd say consumption isn't much different to an E30 325i. I know you're not asking about the E39 but I doubt there's much in it.

However, if you DO start driving it really hard you can get through a serious amount of fuel. The little fuel economy gauge swings to 10mpg with the slightest prod of the loud pedal.

[nickso]

watch out for the manual box. if its stuffed so are you.

mine did 20-24 mpg and it didnt seem to matter how much i ragged it.....er until i blew the head gasket