Re: Should I buy 87' 735i (archive)

Hi, I'm a current e23 owner and am looking to upgrade to a e32 87' 735i UK import. Thanks to a fellow board member for checking the car out, he found the following.
- The price is $2500 (New Zealand $ about $1000 USD)
- The head gasket needs repairing
- 17" front tires need replacing - resulting in vibration at 80km
- Needs a new water pump
- OBC display has been tampered with and is control unit
is missing buttons
- Front shocks feel a bit soft
Any thoughts? Should I stay away or is it worth fixing up? Will I notice much difference over my e23 in terms of power, performance etc.
Also has done 132miles, 17" alloys, alarm, cd players etc.
Here is the add site http://www.trademe.co.nz/structure/classified_detail.asp?id=74779
Thanks for any thoughts and opinions
Mike 1980, 732i

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought the e23 included the 1987 model year? If it's the e32, I would have a look at the electrical, problematic on the first couple of years for the e32. I would hang on to what you have - the money you save, throw in a new Blaupunkt stereo or whatever suits you. Best way to check it out - take her up to 100 mph and (if you don't loose control of the car), slam on the brakes. Then take a corner at about 40 mph and see how she drives. Front end suspension job is expensive. For comparison, a car like that as you describe would sell for no more than $500 CAD on the public auction block - that's about $300 USD, regardless of the age of the car ! Good luck.

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