Re: New BMW (archive)

I bought my 89 525i for 5800 with tax....car had 210,000 miles but a new engine and tranny. With rims, tires, etc. Ive easily put $2,000-$2,500 into the car....mostly on extra stuff....but I probably spent $1200 fixing everything little that was wrong with the car as well as getting all new filters, pads, o2 sensor, etc. etc. I dont think you will need $2500 to fix it up, if so, I wouldnt buy the car. In other words, Id put aside maybe $1500 if your just putting aside for repairs and not rims, tires, etc. That would give you another $500-1000 to get an even better conditioned car. Agree with buying from a private owner and not dealer, as well as getting the car thoroughly checked at mechanic.

Look for an87-88 535I or 535IS...upgrade it with 16" wheels w/205.55.16. rubber....
Get a good BMW shop to do a pre-purchase inpection before you agree to buy and expect to put another 2-3000 into getting it into shape.
Good Luck,
Bahr
I picked up my 89 535i for 6400 w/tax. It needed rotors up front. So figure another 200 bucks for some nice ones so i was up to about 6600 total. The BMW mechanics said the cars engine was and is in great shape. I have 130k on it and they predict with proper mainenece I will be getting above 200k. now the adition of my turbo may creat a little bit extra wear. Overall my gass milage is about 20mpg so thats great in my book. The BMW computer seams to be a bit optimistic on mileage but still kinda close.
thats just my 2 cents.
If you want a nice nice car check out a 89 325is or a 88 535is both nice rides.
thanx,
josh

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