I'm coming up a bit empty, or just can't keep all the models in my head while I'm looking at Wikipedia's grids.
Was the 2003 - 2010 5 series the last generation that came as a wagon, naturally aspirated I6, manual, and AWD?
A 2006 530xi estate manual crossed my for sale feed yesterday, albeit with high mileage, and I suddenly have an interest in large out-of-warranty BMWs.
The 2003 model year was the last for the E39. E60 and E61 (the estate/wagon/Touring) sold 2004 to 2010. I know the M5 could be had with a manual shift. Not sure of other variants.
I would never call the 530i a large car. Very similar to a Honda Accord. To each his own, I suppose. I feel cramped in the 3-series.
The 5-er is the perfect size.
E61 AWD Manual is one car that could get me back to the dark side. All issues are well documented.
Dark side indeed! And if it were going to be something, it would be an AWD wagon with a manual trans. Somewhere I hear a BMW going "Muahhaahaahahaha."
I don't love the Bangle era styling, but with the right wheels, it can be good enough.
The e60 definitely got better looking after the LCI refresh especially with the m sport bumpers, the early I drive is a bit dated now as well. The 530 will get you the last na 6 bmw made that is fairly reliable. They do tend to leak oil though & x drive makes the oil pan alot more difficult to do. The latter 528's can be upgraded to 530 power with a 3 stage intake & a reflash, most of the x drive cars were n54 535's though.
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