525i?!?

[ThunderChicken]

I know this may not be the appropriate place for this post, but most of the 5-series posts were about newer issues, while this forum is mid-80s focused.

I'm looking into buying an '88 525i 5-speed....is there anything I should be looking out for?! (that a 325e owner wouldn't know to look for)

My trusty eta is unfortunately in need of some SEVERE body repair (left side crushed). Not sure how much that's going to be, or if it's even possible. At the very least, it's still a prime MotoX candidate. On that note, does anyone know what the laws are regarding driving an auto with no doors? Is there a minimum clearance? Could I just weld a couple support bars on?

ARGH

by the way, they're asking 3,400 for the 525i, and it's around 150k. I think I can get lower though.

 

[Doughnut]

If your planing on spending $3,400, (or even around that) you may as well sink it into reparing the eta.

Lol, you sound like a redneck, driving with no doors is crazy, even with supporting bars.
Save that for the demolition derby!

As far as what to look for with the 5'er, rust, oil leaks, tyres, engine noise(rev it to limiter briefly and see what noises it makes afterwards )
and get the price lower.
good luck, peace.

 

[E30m42cab]

I paid $3800 for my 1992 525i 5 speed, and that has the M50 in it. If the body is in nice shape, and the engine doesn't burn a gallon of oil a week, it should be okay. You can always do better on the price. Save your eta engine just in case. Buying an 88 525i is pretty much going to be the same as buying a E30... except the exhaust is in the middle (sweet!). Don't get rid of the 325e until you strip the hell out of it.

Only buy it if its black!