'97 BMW 540i Manual
It's been a grand year spent behind the wheel of our long-term BMW 540i, from participating in the pick-it-up-at-the-factory tourist delivery program to 155-mph autobahn blitzes and fast-paced romps through local mountain ranges. Checking the calendar, we saw the return date for our beloved 540i was drawing near. Could we part so soon with what is arguably the best sport sedan in the world? After a diplomatic summit with BMW officials, we were granted another year in the all-black muscle sedan. Since our last update, the 540i's first scheduled service was performed and a few wear items corrected under warranty. Our previous months of hard driving had loosened the six-speed's shift knob. Attention was also given to a stubborn rear cupholder that refused to stay closed, a driver's door rattle, and a trunk seal that was interfering with the decklid release. Back in shape, the 540i remains in constant demand with its rare combination of stellar performance and luxury accoutrements. Fuel economy has ranged from 12 mpg in town to 26.5 mpg during a brisk 400-mile run to San Francisco.
| Base price | $52,350 |
| Price as tested | $58,145 |
| Body style | 4-door, 5-pass. |
| Engine size/type | 4.4-liter V-8 |
Transmission/driveline
configuration | 6-speed man./
front engine, rear drive |
| 0-60 mph, sec. | 5.6 |
| EPA mpg, city/highway | 15/24 |
| Total mileage | 9377 |
| Test mileage | 9367 |
| Fuel consumed, gal. | 643.9 |
| Fuel cost | $910.27 |
| Average mpg | 14.5 |
| Additional oil/cost | 1 qt/$2.15 |
| Routine maint. | $65.00 |
| Additional maint. | None |
| Previous maint. | None |
| Problem areas | Front windows |
| Total operating cost | $977.42 |
| Operating cost/mile | 10.4 |
'97 Cadillac Catera
Riding in the Catera is like taking a trip to Discovery Zone, with interesting features continually to be found. A favorite this summer was the air-conditioned glovebox, making it easier to get frozen yogurt to the MT staff meeting without melting. Driving through the star-studded Los Angeles and Beverly Hills area, we had expected our muted Catera to remain invisible, leaving us to luxuriate quietly in the sedan's opulent trappings. Despite our supposed stealthy appearance, people approached us regularly to inquire about the European styling, question the V-6 power, and interrogate us about the rumored Cindy Crawford option. As for the 3.0-liter/200-horsepower DOHC V-6, it capably propels the 3770-pound car from 0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds, but true enthusiasts do cry out for more power. So far, our Catera has been trouble-free and has consistently returned excellent fuel economy. As for Cindy, there is the rumor about a secret option code tied in with the leather package.
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