Have both. The 7 is a cruiser. Given proper maintenance, both are reliable. Agree about the heater on the 7. My climate control unit is out and having someone do the repair is over $1000. But, when I go on a road trip, I take the 7 over the 5 any time. I have 235K on my 82 e23 and still get 24 MPG, cruising at 75. Always travel and arrive in comfort. If I didn't use this car so much on the highway, I'd probably settle for the e28. They are distinctly different cars. How are you going to use it?