The 1992-1996 BMW 540i Sedan (E34 chassis) is a durable, luxury performance sedan featuring a V8 engine. Enthusiasts often praise it as one of BMW's most reliable chassis, with the 540i/6 variant being highly sought after for its performance. It is infamous for common issues typical of aging BMWs, such as brittle plastic parts, failing window mechanisms, and maintenance around the V8, which is shoehorned into a chassis designed for an I6. However, it remains highly regarded as a perfect daily driver for those who appreciate late '90s luxury and performance without the complexity of later electrical systems, offering a good balance of power and smooth cruising.
Annual maintenance for a BMW 540i averages $798. Common issues include valve cover, intake manifold, and PCV plate oil leaks, as well as cooling system leaks. Insurance averages around $3,756/year for a BMW 540.
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