In the real world how thirsty are they? Anyone own one? I'm looking at a 2002 low mileage model for my brother in law

Cheers

 

My dad has the E60 version same engine though. Trip computer says around 22-23mpg in town. My dad also doesn't drive particularly economically. HTH

 

You would be better with the 525, the 520 is underpowered for the size of car. the 525 is the best entry-level engine for the car and in real terms returns better MPG than the 520 due to not having to be worked hard all the time.

IF you do go for the 520, avoid autoboxes on such a small engine as the en gine will be working hard all the time to keep you going, the 525 and autobox is tolerable with the 530 being the best compromise between autobox comfort and economy. The 525 being the best for manual gearbox and economy

 

Gracias...good info

 

Read my edit

If you want the daddy, the 540i Auto is awesome if you don't want an M5 - I speak from experience

 

Thats great info...thank you

 

Tbh mate the E60 is over 2 tonnes and the 170bhp 2.2 straight 6 doesn't really have a big problem in moving the car in my opinion. The E39 is lighter than the E60 as well. My dad really couldn't care less about speed though he just wanted a big comfortable car and the 2.2 engine does him fine. If I was to have one though I'd have a 525i or 530i or the 530d. If you are not bothered about anything else apart from to get around a 520i will be fine. It isn't going to break any speed records but it isn't a huge fat slob by any means.

 

my work mate has an old shape j reg 520 and that goes well enough even with 170k, so id imagine a newer shape one would be good enough for the job sounds too

 

I dont want to roll round in a +10 years old 130k plus miles Bmw pretenting i'm rich and sucessful in a worn out scrotter with chrome trim hiding the rusty arches tho like most of todays 'elitist' chavs.

Thanks for you input though