Re: '88 M5 (archive)

I'm looking to buy an '88 M5 for $10k. It has 99k miles, looks great, all original, and well maintained. In addition to getting it checked out by my mechanic, will you M5-philes and hobbiests please give me the good, the bad, and the ugly about this one(what to look closely for). Also, is this a good price if it checks out?
I currently own an '88 535i and I love it.
Thanks.

Check out the attached link, it was very helpful to me during my search for the one I bought in November. Other than that, there were things I learned before buying by reading this board and others I learned after that I wish I had known before. Two big things to check are when was the timing chain replaced, if ever? Many say after 100,000 miles you are driving on borrowed time if it has not been replaced. Mine has 106,000 and I have not replaced it yet. It is on my list. The other is the self-leveling suspension in the rear. It doesnt last and is expensive to replace. Most install Bilsteins in the back instead of replacing the stock system. Besides that, anything I wish I had known about before buying are not specific to the M5 but are more general to the E28, so you are probably familiar with them already. Little things, like sub-frame bushings, wheel bearings, axle boots, etc. They all add up if they need replacing, believe me, I know from personal experience.

Despite all the unexpected $$$ I have had to put into it though in the first 3 months of ownership, there is no other car I would rather own that matches it's performance capabilities, and I only use it as a daily driver.

$10k would be a steal if it is in good condition and the maintenance has not been neglected and is backed up with receipts.

Hope this helps,
Brian
'88 M5

http://www.m5springboard.com/Info/BuyersGuide.htm

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