Re: Should I buy an '88 M5? (archive)

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Test drive one and you'll immediately understand the attraction... one of the sweetest engines ever. The four valve head, individual throttle bodies and short stroke make it a powerful, high rev monster. The trick M5 suspension, brakes, interior, and cosmetics can pretty much be duplicated by adding these bits and pieces to a 535i or 535is. But, the M5 engine is just too cost restrictive.

That's where the maintenance costs really come in. The car's low production numbers (scarcity) and high performance nature make any significant mistake related to the unique drivetrain a costly one. An example being failure to change the chain tensioner and any worn guides at higher mileage... boom, bent valves or worse if the chain skips and an instant $3-5k for the head repair or replacement. In contrast, the same type of mistake/damage for a 535i/is engine is maybe $1,200-$1500.

The bottom line is that if you're willing to stay on top of it with all maintenance at recommended intervals, an M5 is as reliable as an i/is and there are few cars that will put as large a smile on your face on a daily basis. If you want a really enjoyable car but prefer the luxury of skipping a scheduled maintenance, not having to go to one of the top mechanics in your region, or allowing a few problems to collect until you have time to deal with them... the 535i/is will let you literally run it into the ground and rarely penalize you for it.

I've had both, currently have an M5, and have to say that if it was my primary commute car, even just for a summer, I'd likely have a 535is look-a-like with some mods.

I am looking for some advice from past and existing M5 owwners. I found an '88 M5 with approx 105k miles for $12.5k. It is all stock except for the radio and chip. I have been informed that it has been very well maintained by a well known mechanic in northeastern Pennsylvania.

From what I could tell from the pics, the car is straight and very nice looking. No rust. The car has not been repainted and the original paint still shines well. The interior is in good shape. The driver's seat shows normal wear for a 14 year old vehicle.

I plan to use the car as a daily driver only during nice weather. Otherwise it will be covered or placed in a garage.

What major repairs should I anticipate in the near future? Can I expect the engine to hold up to 200k miles? Will I have more problems with this vehicle than with my '87 735i? What should I look for specifically when I go to test drive the car? Thanks in advance

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