Re: Good cars or too costly?? (archive)

$18,500 is awful cheap for a 91 M5 with only 47k miles. If a CARFAX check on the VIN number comes back clean I would strongly suggest to see service records and have a reputable 3rd party do a complete mechanical inspection (compression, leakdown, etc.)

Just to give you perspective, I spent $19,500 for an M5 with 48,000 miles on it. I KNEW ahead of time that it had a salvaged title and needed some "fixer-upper" type work. After putting about $2,500 into it I would have broke even buying a 70K mile M5 with a squeaky clean title.

I love my M5 and pretty much got what I asked for. I would suggest that if you are serious about finding a well cared for M5 (at probably a higher price) check the BMWCCA member magazine ROUNDEL classified. These are usually well loved cars.

A well cared for and loved M5 will probably cost a little more than your average car for maintenance, tires, brakes, etc, but it will be a HELL of a lot more fun!

-Benster
1991 M5

My only experience with BMW was 323i and that proved expensive and frustrating - engine rebuilds, computer problems, etc. My boss recently sold his 740 - I remember the brake rotors need replacing after a nominal mileage.

So, you see that my perception of BMW's is somewhat tainted but - BMW's do get very good press and hence this post.

I'd love to get into a E34 M5. Past research has found gear box problems, engine rebuilds - all expensive stuff. Have I got a fair picture? Are these expensive to live with? I run a 93 Porshce 911 at the moment and apart from replacing a clutch ($1200) I haven't had one thing go wrong in 40,000 miles.

There's a 91 M5 with 47k miles for sale near me for $18.5k.

Thanks

Follow Ups:

[ Follow Ups ] [ M5 (E34) Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]

Questions, comments, or problems, please visit the Roadfly help desk.