BMW 530d

My second E39 5 series, and when I thought that my first 530 was good, it just keeps on getting better. I'm comparing a 530i to a 530d, and I'd never revert to petrol, this diesel combines the refinement of a petrol, the oomph of something much larger in the cube's, the torque unbelievably, and ironically leaves little to the imagination, despite it being as frugal (if you so wish) as old ebbenezer himself. Seating (sports option) gives a lovely wrapped around feel, not harsh, on long runs it rewards, leaving you feel surprisingly fresh, and comparable to others in the class, less fatigued ... more

I was lucky enough to drive a friend's 530d one Sunday afternoon and boy did I like it. It was much more of a car than I will be able to afford for a long time. The interior is so well crafted and is designed the way things should be. It was very comfortable and well appointed. Once driving, I was highly impressed by the refinement and the ride was much better than I expected over a terrible little local road I know. For such a big it handled very sharply and keenly, as if it were a small lithe hatche-back. The engine was still fresh at the time but it pulled strongly yet without letting on ... more