Buying an E34 5 Series

Stu · 2005-07-29T16:03:15+00:00

Decided I should start a new thread as the last one was about SAABs and became a BMW discussion.Although I haven't ruled out the SAAB, I've now had my interest swayed firmly in favour of the 5 series. It's something I hadn't considered as I've always thought of them as out of my league. I'm now looking for advice regarding what to look out for when buying one, as I've no experience of BMWs whatsoever.What I've learned so far is that the autos are relatively reliable. I'm still a bit apprehensive, though: I've always had a manual and I'm not sure I could grow to love an auto. I've also been advised to avoid the V8s because of the Nikasil issue (this is a real pity, it's just the model I fancied). Is that still likely to be a problem even on an engine that's already done high miles?Any other BMW quirks I should be aware of or does the normal car inspection stuff apply?BTW, there's a '96 525SE manual in autotrader 120k, SH described as 'good' at £2850. Is this too much or would it be worth it in the right condition?Sorry if I'm wearing everyone's patience thin, here ;-)

Jul 29, 2005 162 Replies

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Dave Plowman (News) 20 years ago

Sounds like it needed fixing.

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PC Paul 20 years ago

It was a hire car...

Seemed to be mostly dithering between kicking down one or two gears before it actually decided. I'm sure it changed three or four times... and I had my foot to the floor...

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Paul Cummins 20 years ago

This is the New Fiat Panda, not the old one...

It's a 'robotised' 5 speed box.

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