Re: Newbie - Thinking of buying a 1988 M5 (archive)

I haven't seen the interior so I don't know what you plan to do to it, but be aware that if the dash and carpet need replacing due to cracking or wear you will easily spend more than your $1k budgeted. It is very easy to spend money on these cars.

Before you buy it be sure you have your mechanic pressure test the radiator - they are made of gold plated platinum and priced to match. :-)) Also check the front rotors, which are pretty pricey also. If the car shimmys under breaking ask the mechanic if the previous owner had heavy duty thrust rod bushings installed. It is a common fix.

Lastly, find out if the cam chain has been serviced or replaced yet. If not I think that service (a major service) is due at 120,000. Someone please correct me if I'm wrong here.

Good luck Matt. Sell that Volvo and you can have more fun with the //M!

Jeff

P.S.
Let us know where the car is if you don't buy it.

I figure drive the Volvo in traffic until the wheels fall off, and drive the //M on those weekend trips.

As to the interior, dash is in good shape, carpet needs a good cleaning. The real work is the leather in the front. Not torn, but so worn in some places I'm not even sure dye will help. A buddy of mine found some leather (yes, leather)seat covers for his 5 series. I can't tell they're covers.

I test drove the car last week, and pushed it VERY hard, including the brakes. No shimmy or vibration at all. I will have my guy check the radiator and chain.

Thanks for the help. I'll keep you posted on purchase status, with location if no deal.

Follow Ups:

Re: Newbie - Thinking of buying a 1988 M5 Neil Deshpande 22:39 12/17/2001 (1)
- Thanks - great information! MattR 07:35 12/18/2001 (0)

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