The BMW 5 SERIES (1996-03) 540I 4DR SALOON 4.4 AUTO is a four-door executive saloon, offering a comfortable, premium alternative to family cars. It suits buyers wanting space and refinement. Its automatic gearbox and powerful 4.4-litre V8 give it a relaxed grand-tourer feel rather than that of a runabout. It competes with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Jaguar’s executive saloons, but the 540i stands out for smooth acceleration and an understated, driver-focused feel. Its roomy cabin suits couples or families, and its comfort makes longer commutes and motorway trips appealing. The large engine means fuel economy is unlikely to match smaller saloons, so budget for running costs as well as purchase price. Mycarcheck.com recorded 54 look-ups across 23 VINs, a snapshot rather than a full-market survey. Checks averaged £900 private-sale value, 119,000 miles, 5,000 miles annually and 4.3 previous keepers. Treat these figures as a guide; check each car’s history and condition.