I have read about the maintenance costs on the 740s, but I would like to give my buddy a more specific answer. Any ideas about what services are due in the near future and/or what is likely to fall apart ?
Here's the excerpt of the original email, privacy-protected.
-------------------------------- I'm thinking of buying a used 1997 BMW 740iL. I read that people really love to drive it, but that the reliablity on accessories is really really bad.
I found someone [close to the northern CA city I live in ] who is selling one with 65K on it for around 16,000. I can probably get him a little cheaper, but because the milage is so low it probably is not worth it.
I was thinking of making it a gift to [my girl] - she always wanted a car like this, and she has no clue that I am looking into this. I was going to sell my [current car] and replace it with a beemer. I figure it will last a long time, even though I know there will be problems with the accessories and electronics. What do you think? Is it even worth considerting, or should I look elsewhere? The seller says everything in the car works, but I was going to take it to a mechanic first and have them to a full check to see if this is true or not.
If you think that there are better models, let me know, but I like the size of the 740. Or, is there a better alternative with similar size/features that would be a little cheaper/more reliable after market. I know the BMW name carries a little more weight...
Let me know what you think!
I was also looking at a 1995 750iL - although it looks good, it has almost 100K on it. But, it has bullet proof glass - how cool (and useless) is that??? :-)
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