Very good. Go for E34. (more) (archive)

About 2-1/2 years ago I skipped a generation and went from my 1978 E12 which I had from new to a used 1992 525iA with 78,000 miles. It lucked upon it. Got it for about $17,000 when they were going for about $22,000 in the SF Bay Area - prices tend to be higher here. So there are deals if one is patient.

I highly recommend the E34. More refinement, more current look, more body strength, better rust resistance, and less windnoise. There was a much bigger change between E28 to E34 than E12 to E28. They carried over the doors from the E12 to the E28 - one of the most expensive parts of the car to develop. I think if you really take your time shopping, you're be able to find a really good one at a good price.

Repairs aren't too bad if you're handy and willing to dig into it. Lots of good advice on this board. Parts prices are just as expensive on the older generations - BMW parts are BMW parts. Of course, the complexity of the creature comforts increase with each generation. Power headrest issues that some people experience, the difficult to change microfilter (but hey it filters out pollen!) I love the dual temperature climate control, one touch window and sunroom open feature, etc.

Cheers,
Larry

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