So which is it?
Performance = V8
Reality = Diesel
Limited to BMW & Audi as they are about the only to make fast V8 diesels
Think it's been mentioned but dare I say 530/535d. Straight six, economical for its size and limited to 155. Don't know what budget or requirements are though. Trust me, you won't know you are in a diesel.
No idea on maintenance costs though so could be a nightmare.
I like 5s but as you say service costs will be high. Limited DIY base too.
With my decent tools these days, going classic route is valid option. Expensive to fuel, but cheap to service.
Trade BMW parts, cheap stuff, DIY on a 5 Series, easy stuff .
Are they similar to the e39 5 Del? Suspension joints, turbo, injectors, hedgehogs, swirl flaps, diesel pumps(x5?)...?
E60's are generally pretty good to be honest, injectors can be troublesome, turbos not as big of an issue, swirl flaps we're changed from 2005 onwards, still there as an issue, but not a big problem, diesel pumps not heard of an issue with one of those really
. BMW's are no better reliability wise than anything else I've got to say, however the engines are cracking, build quality is good, and they drive like a car should.