Ahheck01

What makes it a plug? Do you have one for sale for some reason? Is it a trunk six disc, or a stock HU replacement front console six disc?

I can't agree with you on HPS's - I have experience with them in the BMW community.


I just test drove a '99 GLE.

The power was surprising. I'm quite certain that it's actually faster than my 528i 5-speed. Don't tell the bimmer guys I said that .

The brakes felt mushy. There was no ability to modulate near the breaking point whatsoever, but that may be something I give up when coming from BMW? Will HPS pads, SS Lines, and new fluid help at all, or do I have to resort to a BBK for linear and responsive braking?

The only other issue is headroom. I put the power leather seat all the way down and could sit straight up (the way I prefer to drive) without my hair in constant contact with the headliner. Not sure if there is any solution - perhaps custom seat brackets? Idk, open to ideas there.

Overall, for a FWD auto sedan, it's a fun car, and the amenities more than meet the needs. Room is decent enough aside from the aforementioned headroom issue. I also updated my OP based on all the awesome advice given since my last update! More input welcome!

-Evan

Tatanko

iTrader: (34)

My advice? Don't get a GLE if you're coming from a 5-speed 528i, get a fully loaded 5-speed SE.

95BLKMAX

iTrader: (10)

Yea I this idea big time, lol.

Blackmax1924

iTrader: (7)

for brakes my input is this, I have brembo slotted/cross drilled and hawk hps pads and just regular fluid and the stock calipers and my brakes stop on a dime, they are amazing. Unless you plan on doing auto-x with your maxima then I see no point to getting the special brake fluid, stainless steel brake lines, and BBK I personally believe it would be a waste of money and time. Just stick with stock calipers and change the rotors and pads and you'll be set.

Also for suspension I went from stock to tockiko ilumnias and I havwe absolutely no complaints they are perfect for my daily driver, when I want to go a bit nutty, and also when I go to the drag strip.

Exhaust I would say Cattman full exhaust headers-muffler if you have the money if not go another route.

Thats all I have for comments about the mods you are thinking about, if you need any more I will be glad to assist you.

Stephen

IlyaK

iTrader: (47)

Not done. I was going to take and re-do that site on my own server (and not allow people to edit it) because ALOT of that info on their has gotten wiped out by jackasses. That site USED to be a good source for info, not so much anymore.

Ahheck01

As mentioned a couple times, I have to buy an auto.

-Evan

edit: And as far as the break fluid everyone seems to be rooting against - it's $4 more per fillup, which is once a year max. Even if I'll see no gains, I like the peace of mind of getting the best of the best for a total premium of $4 a year.

MorpheusZero

iTrader: (10)

I would find a new female before I bought an auto.

Mushy brakes are a common problem on stock 4th gens, it is mostly the pads but the braking system in general will not be up to par with BMW's.

Ahheck01

Haha, I wouldn't do it for a woman. It's business related. Going to be doing a lot of late-night/early-morning long drives with other people who may or may not know how to drive stick. I pass out REALLY fast at 4am on an otherwise empty highway, so driving in shifts is a must. I feel more comfortable letting just anyone drive my car if it's an auto.

In a few years, I'll replace it with an '08 BMW M5 and make up for the 2-3 years of automatic. I'm sure that'll do the trick!

-Evan

MorpheusZero

iTrader: (10)

Not if you get the SMG model, and if you get the 6M they still probably won't let you deactivate the TCS/DSC.

You should still try to test drive a 5 speed, the shifter is really nice and direct (as long as all the bolts down there are tightened).

Ahheck01

It's official now - they can all disable TCS/DSC now

The auto thing is a final decision - believe me, I fought it for a good while, as after 6 BMW's and 7 cars - none of them auto's - I swore I'd never purchase an auto. I just love 5speed too much.

Nonetheless, my next car will be an auto.

-Evan

MorpheusZero

iTrader: (10)

Just make sure you have a 21 speed mountain bike or something to keep shifting in your blood.

Ahheck01

Yeah, my brother and I are working on putting an M50 (2.5L DOHC I6) in his 5-speed, modified 1987 325is. That's a fun car right there! Just gotta get'r'dun this spring.

-Evan

BluFlame

iTrader: (2)

there is no diff.fluid for auto tranny, you just saved $7.
stay away from oddball 99, get a 97SE fully loaded or 98GLE/SE,
steering rack makes the difference.