Re: Love my E34 V8! (long) (archive)

I have 120k on a '94 530i 5 speed I bought new. Block replaced with Alusil at 92k since it (barely) failed leakdown with one month left under the 6yr warranty (yipee!). Most solid, reliable car I've ever owned. Notable work done:

-brake pads/rotors just changed once in 120k miles
-clutch changed at 92k only because the engine was out; transmission shifts like the day it was new
-water pump changed just once; radiator original
-a/c condensor changed once (my bad; shorted out when I drove through a flooded street)
-radio out once for internal repair
-new front struts at 80k; rear struts original
-just replaced thrust arms / bushings and tie rods at 118k (elective - could have deferred another 20k)
-complete exhaust system, cats, oxy sensors, etc are all original
-inside and outside looks like a new car. No one can believe it has 120k miles.

You are wise to go for a 5 speed; obviously more fun, with the benefit of being far more reliable than the automatics for the long haul. If you find an Alusil 8 in good shape, go for it! The nice thing about them compared with 535i's with similar mileage, is that the engines will typically have a lot less wear in them... a 535i with 120k miles has that much on the engine too, vs a car like mine with same indicated miles but only 28k on the engine. You'll be greatful at 200k...

Good luck!

Lou Almerini

We are considering purchase of a manual transmission 530 or 540. We have read mixed reviews regarding the reliability of the E34 V8's as compared to the E39 V8's and the 6 cylinder cars (E34 /E39). What is your experience? Also, how costly is maintence and how is fuel economy? Would appreciate any info. Thanks.

Steve
'98 528i Sport 5spd
'90 325i 5spd

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