I have a 1999 528i that seems to be eating transmissions. It has 170,000 miles and has been maintained by the book since new. The previous owner replaced the transmission with a new unit at about 90,000. At 165,000, the torque converter started to slip, which triggered a check engine light. That one cost me $2,400.

As I understand it, my transmission started life as a GM unit intended for use in the Chevette and some Izusu models. Need I say more?

I'm told that some E39s have a different automatic tranny, which might be fine.

I am also having some random electrical issues - the current problem being either a wheel speed sensor or an ABS module.

Despite those two rather major complaints, I would take the BMW over the Benz. The in-line six has just the right amount of power and torque. Very smooth and driveable (if that's a word). The build quality on the car is stellar.