Buyer's Guide

Bargain Bavarians: Best BMWs for Under $5k

Georg Meier

Georg Meier

— 7 min read
Bargain Bavarians: Best BMWs for Under $5k

When you think of affordable cars, a BMW might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But fear not, Bimmer enthusiasts! There are some true gems hiding in the corners of the used-car market, just waiting for you to discover them. This is where the magic of depreciation really starts to show. So, grab your driving gloves, and let's go hunting for the best BMWs you can snag for under $5k – BIMMERIST style.

1999-2005 BMW E46 3 Series: The Gateway Bimmer

Ah, the E46 – that perfect blend of sporty handling, timeless design, and just enough technology to keep things interesting. If you're new to the world of BMW, this is the ideal place to start. This generation of the 3 Series offers a range of engines, from the fuel-sipping 318i to the punchy 330i. You'll likely find most examples in the 323i or 325i flavor, both of which offer plenty of performance for the price.

What's to love?

The E46's balance of power, handling, and comfort are still impressive today. And don't even get me started on the glorious inline-six engine noise!

Buyer's Beware

Cooling system issues are the Achilles' heel of the E46. Make sure you budget for a cooling system refresh if it hasn't been done recently.

Suggested Model: BMW 325i

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Why It Stands Out: The 325i hits the sweet spot in the E46 lineup, offering a harmonious balance of performance, efficiency, and reliability. Its M54 2.5-liter inline-six engine is smoother than a Sinatra serenade and packs enough punch to make every drive feel like an event. Plus, its relatively simple mechanics mean maintenance won't require a PhD in engineering.

1995-2001 BMW E38 7 Series: Baller on a Budget

If you want to cruise around town like James Bond, the E38 is your ticket to ride. With sleek lines, an opulent interior, and a choice of silky-smooth V8 or V12 engines, this 7 Series will have you feeling like royalty in no time.

What's to love?

The E38's ride quality is unparalleled, thanks to its double-wishbone suspension. And if you're lucky, you might even find one with the rare and delightful manual transmission.

Buyer's Beware

The electronics in these cars can be finicky, so make sure you test every switch and button. The cooling system is also a weak point, so keep an eye on the temperature gauge.

Suggested Model: BMW 740iL

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Why It Stands Out: Longer, lusher, and undeniably more luxe, the 740iL offers all the charms of the E38 with a bit more legroom. The M62 4.4-liter V8 under the hood is as refined as they come, delivering silky-smooth power right through the rev range. And while it's certainly not shy about drinking fuel, the driving experience is worth every drop.
a black car parked in front of a wind turbine
Photo by Kreit / Unsplash

2004-2010 BMW E60 5 Series: Sedan Swagger

The E60 is the ultimate sleeper – a wolf in sheep's clothing. Sure, it may not be the prettiest Bimmer on the block, but with the right engine and suspension setup, this 5 Series can be an absolute riot on a twisty road. Look for a 530i or 535i for the best bang for your buck.

What's to love?

The E60's performance chops are impressive, especially when equipped with the optional sport package. Plus, the interior is both spacious and comfortable, making it a fantastic daily driver.

Buyer's Beware

The infamous "VANOS" variable valve timing system can cause issues, so listen for any odd noises or rough idling. The iDrive infotainment system can also be finicky, so test it thoroughly.

Suggested Model: BMW 535i

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Why It Stands Out: A bit of a dark horse in the E60 stable, the 535i brings a near-perfect balance of performance and practicality. Its N54 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six is a technological marvel, offering up a hefty 300 horsepower while still returning respectable fuel economy. Plus, the E60's quirky Bangle-designed aesthetics have aged like a fine wine, standing out in a sea of sedate sedans.

1992-1998 BMW E36 3 Series: Classic Cool

The E36 is the ideal BMW for the budding enthusiast looking for a fun and engaging rear-wheel-drive experience. With its lightweight chassis, perfect 50/50 weight distribution, and rev-happy engines, the E36 is a true driver's car.

What's to love?

The E36's driving dynamics are still a benchmark for modern sports sedans, and its clean lineshave aged gracefully. Plus, with a massive aftermarket and enthusiast community, there's no shortage of support and modifications available.

Buyer's Beware

Rust can be a problem, particularly around the rear subframe mounting points, so check the underbody carefully. Also, the cooling system is a known weak point, so make sure it's been well-maintained.

Suggested Model: BMW 328i

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Why It Stands Out: The 328i is the E36 at its peak, a potent potpourri of power, poise, and driving pleasure. Its M52 2.8-liter inline-six is both zippy and zestful, delivering a driving experience that’s as engaging as it is effortless. Plus, its relative simplicity means you won’t need a master’s degree in mechanics to keep it running right.

1999-2006 BMW E53 X5: The Adventurous Bimmer

If your BMW cravings come with a side of off-road prowess, the E53 X5 is your perfect match. This first-generation X5 combines the driving dynamics BMW is known for with the versatility of an SUV. With a range of engines, from a frugal inline-six to a potent V8, the E53 is as at home on a twisty road as it is on a dirt trail.

What's to love?

The E53's all-wheel-drive system is surprisingly capable, making it a great choice for weekend adventures. And with its spacious, well-appointed interior, it's equally suited for family road trips.

Buyer's Beware

Keep an eye out for worn suspension components and potential transmission issues, particularly on higher-mileage examples. The cooling system should also be inspected and maintained regularly.

Suggested Model: BMW X5 3.0i

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Why It Stands Out: The 3.0i strikes a happy medium in the X5 lineup, offering a judicious mix of power, efficiency, and off-road prowess. Its M54 3.0-liter inline-six is both robust and reliable, providing ample oomph for both on-road romps and off-road romances. Plus, its spacious interior and commanding driving position mean you’ll be riding in comfort, regardless of where the road takes you.

1996-2002 BMW Z3: The Roadster for the Purist

For those who crave open-top motoring, the Z3 roadster is an affordable entry into the world of BMW convertibles. With its classic roadster proportions and a choice of punchy inline-four or silky-smooth inline-six engines, the Z3 offers a fun and engaging driving experience.

What's to love?

The Z3's compact size and nimble handling make it an absolute joy on twisty roads. The available M Sport package further sharpens the handling and adds a touch of visual flair.

Buyer's Beware

The rear subframe can suffer from cracking, so inspect this area carefully. Additionally, check the condition of the convertible top and its operation, as replacement can be costly.

Suggested Model: BMW Z3 2.8

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Why It Stands Out: With its larger M52 2.8-liter inline-six, the Z3 2.8 provides a perfect blend of power and poise, delivering a driving experience that’s as invigorating as it is intoxicating. Its sleek lines and compact dimensions make it a joy to throw around on twisty roads, while its relatively simple mechanics mean you won’t need a mechanic on speed dial.

Each of these models represents a high point in their respective lineups, offering a driving experience that’s as delightful as it is dependable. With any of these Bimmers, you’ll be getting a lot of car for your cash, proving that the Ultimate Driving Machine doesn’t have to come with an ultimate price tag.

Conclusion

Alright, gearheads and aficionados of fine German engineering, buckle up because we've just sifted through the treasure trove of BMW greatness, all while keeping our wallets firmly in check! Yes, you heard it right - the best BMWs out there for a meager $5k, and we’ve got something delectable for every palette.

From the snarling sports sedan enthusiast to the rugged off-road ranger, this is your golden ticket. A keen eye, a dollop of patience, and a penchant for adventure are all you need to unearth these automotive jewels.

Now, don’t be fooled by their age; these Bavarian beasts are like fine wine, getting better as the years roll by. With a bit of TLC and a sprinkle of maintenance magic, they’re ready to unleash miles and miles of unbridled joy and driving nirvana.

So what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of budget-friendly Bimmers, and let the hunt begin. Trust me, the roads are calling, and they’re itching for the unique roar and poise of a BMW. Happy hunting, fellow Bimmerists, and may the torque be with you!

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