the 530d touring boot is MASSIVE

never driven a 3 series touring but they look quite a bit smaller.

also dont ONLY consider a sport, the main difference is the cosmetics but if you dont mind the looks of the SE it's more of a comfy ride

6k should buy you a MINT well specced e39 sport. there are quite a few on the autotrader.

common issues are well documented so read up and go prepared.

the one on pictonheads doesnt look too well specced but does have low mileage and look in ok condition. it MIGHT be worth 6k but it's probably nearer 5 if compared to other ones for sale.

deffo a buyers market, they dont seem to sell quickly, the one i bought had been for sale for months and was a good buy!

for 6k you can also consider the newer E61 but thats the low end of the price bracket for them.

as for the 530i vs 530d argument, its certainly true that the 530i is cheaper so you have to consider if you really need the diesel. i personally wanted the diesel as i wanted to get it remapped and get all that midrange torque