New guy FAQ - looking at first BMW, a '95 540 (archive)

I am considering the purchase of a '95 540 Automatic with 92K miles. One owner, engine replacement done ~8k miles ago. Claims meticulous maintenance with all records kept and available for my perusal when I come see it this weeked. Asking $~17k. It seems like a good deal to me, especially given the new short block, but I have a few reservations.

Therefore, I respectfully solicit advice and opinions from folks with experience with E34's in general and the 540 in particular:

1) A sense of what specifics to look for, both on the car itself and in the service records, on my initial once-over.

2) Are there weak points that on high milage examples of these cars would preclude me from using it for a reliable daily commuter? How well does the transmission, running gear, electrical system, etc, etc, hold up past 100k?

I enjoy and plan to do my own work as much as possible barring huge jobs, so how difficult are these to work on?

I have never had a BMW myself, but have always loved how they drive whenever I have had the priviledge, and am hoping to find this one a sound example.

I thank everyone in advance for their knowledge and opinions.

Andy
'93 Nissan(not for long...)
'73 Triumph

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