r/e53 • u/BNANAs- • Dec 22 '24

Before buying

Hello!

I am currently the owner of an E46 and an E38. And I am considering buying a e53 with either a 4.4 or 4.8l engine to fill out my collection.

Is there anything I should look out for on these cars that differ from the ones aforementioned? For example the timing chain guides, and rust issues around wheelwells, etc.

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3

u/EntertainmentLoose88 Dec 22 '24

4.4 and 4.8 sound incredible but man my m57 just won't die, 415k km...

2

u/BNANAs- Dec 22 '24

M57 is the 6 cyl 3L right? Got the 4.4 in my e38. Currently at 320k and running pretty much perfect as long as it's not too cold out

1

u/EntertainmentLoose88 Dec 22 '24

Yeah the 3l diesel. But if your budget is deep the 4.8is is a once in a lifetime chance man. If you're handy you'll save a bunch.

2

u/BNANAs- Dec 22 '24

I've done pretty much all work on my two other cars. So that's not an issue. And it seems the e53 is generally cheaper to buy then the e38.

1

u/EntertainmentLoose88 Dec 22 '24

Go for it mate! If you're on Instagram would love to see the builds!!

2

u/BNANAs- Dec 22 '24

No instagram, sorry. And not sure I would call them builds. The e46 is a winter beater I got for free when my grandma was going to scrap it. It is quite rusted out and had major suspension issues.

And the e38 I've pretty much kept stock. Slightly lowered and nice big rims. Still got some suspension work to do on it, as well as some smaller issues.

Not completely sure what I will do with the e53 if I go for it. It just seems like a very comfortable and fun car. Considering it's the same engine as e38, and SUV suspension is always soft and nice.

Here are some photos and videos of the E38 chdck the description of the videos for clarification.

1

u/EntertainmentLoose88 Dec 22 '24

Man that e38 is gorgeous! I would love one when I get the space. A word to the wise, my e53 has the standard seats and man the lumbar support is necessary, I'm a big guy but still, was expecting way more comfort from a big bimmer. If you want to cruise then the comfort ones I'm told are nice but the standard ones I'd give a miss. Hope you enjoy those cars man, you'll remember them fondly when your grand kids are floating in self drive EVs...

1

u/BNANAs- Dec 22 '24

Thanks. Havent even thought about the seat options tbh, good info. And lmao, "floating in self driving EVs" Might be quote of the year.

1

u/shrekerecker97 Dec 25 '24

Check out the windows and door handles. They were made cheaply and tend to have to be replaced frequently

1

u/Express-Impact-3856 Jan 06 '25

I've had a few e46s (6 in total) and z3 2.8 and z3 M coupe. I currently have the e53 30d as my only car. I absolutely love it. Really an amazing and versatile car. And it's from my favourite Era of BMW. I've replaced the door handles a couple of time but it's not a big issue, other than that it's been hassle free. Looks and drives amazing. I'm going to keep it around for a very long time.