I am a Mercedes enthusiast man whose daily drive is a BMW 530d (E39 and E60)
IMHO, my 2001 E39 530d Auto (Exclusive Pack) is one of the best decisions that I have ever made in life.
Issues: Injectors, Failed secondary fuel pump, lcm, turbo, thermostat, water hoses, expansion tank, fan resistor, battery, some globes. Now I have a lazy a/c compressor bearing.
Strengths: An astounding car with plenty of torque (still have a speed camera photo of a trailer - being towed by my E39 - clocked at 187 km/h - This was in 2003.). Excellent ergonomics,, convenience features, luxury, innovation. The E39's (especially the 530d) were streets ahead of the competition