My plans are to run One Lap of America with it in 2003...plenty of time to get her in shape. This event (for 2002), as you probably know ,is basically 8 days long, 5000 total miles, and 17 different tracks for a few laps at each, so you need a vehicle that can handle the long road miles and also do short track events competitively.

Assuming almost everything needs to be repaired or replaced on this current beater M5 in order to be ready to participate in this event, I'd appreciate hearing from this board on what you would advise I should consider doing, using, etc? What mechanical things should be first priority, what should be replaced with stock parts, what upgrades work best, etc? I have a very modified E30 M3, but I'am not familiar with the E28 M5...so any recommendations you have on upgrading and restoring this M5 for my "1 Lap plan" would be most appreciated.

I have lined up a great co-driver, another M3 guy, who is also a top notch BMW mechanic/engine builder, together we'll piece this thing together over the next year...we hope!

I'll keep you all posted on the plans and progress as we start this journey toward "1 Lap". I'm sure I'll be asking questions and for advice from you experienced E28 M5 guys along the way. Glad to be a new E28 M5 guy!! Thanks again.