Need opinions on this 535i/5

[jays325is]

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/cto/923378081.html

This is basically a 1 owner 177,000 km Black on Black leather 535i 5 spd. The asking price is $3000 cnd. Other than a few noted dings it looks to be in great shape, how does the price look?

I currently own a lowered 1991 e30 so i'm about to be car-less for the winter.
I've alway been more partial to the 5 series anyways.... i'm just looking for ways to justify a second car.

[zubbie]

Pretty good find, particulary with the 5-speed. If the engine and tranny are tight (watch the syncros) it's a good buy. Offer $2500 and you are golden. Check for records and get a PPI for sure up front but that engine will go to 400K if maintained properly.

[HausBimmer]

Wow, thats really low miles, if correct. Sounds basically one owner - does it have service records to back up the mileage? With service records, I'd jump all over it.

[ross1]

If not a rot box do your best to get the price down and jump on it. You have a very good chance for LSD in that combo so with some deep tread she'll be a good snow car.
That driveline is as close to bullet proof as it gets. Keep oil in it, watch the valve lash and banjo bolts and it's good for a very long enjoyable time. Not as tossable as your E30 but this car will quickly grow on you.

[Travis R]

Nice find, do it!

[oakman]

Wow, I payed slightly less for mine but I also had to put another $800 CDN into it. I really doubt you'll find an E34 for less in Canada. Side note, be prepared for terrible fuel mileage during winter, I knew it would be bad but it is driving a V8 pickup bad. On my current tank I am seeing 14mpg on the OBC with city driving (with some aggresive driving).

[jays325is]

Hey guys thanks for your feedback so far. I checked with the owner and there are no service records. I guess the original owner didn't keep any records or at least the current owner hasn't seen them yet.

He's going to double check for them and he's checking to see if it has an LSD. I asked about rust as well, and he said he thinks there is a bit under the passenger side door.

What are some other area's prone to rust? I really don't like seeing any rust, but i guess some area's are much worse than others... plus it would only really be a winter car for now.

With the missing documentation and a few dings and a rust spot, how much under the asking price do you think it's worth?

[kipwinger]

If its just the door you can grab a new one for under $200. I'd probably offer 2k and be pleased at 2.5k.

[e34moneypit]

Rust is common under/at the base of the doors.

Sell me your e30.

[jays325is]

I'm in way too deep into my E30 to get out of it. I would probably be better to save my money and finish working on my car. I'll still probably look at the E34, at least so I know for the future.

[moroza]

Bought this summer, flipping now, no service records? The ad makes it sound pretty kosher, but that's not a good combination.

[Went4it]

There are lots of clues here that the car has issues. Notice there is no mention of the status of the engine or transmission. He only mentions the bad things you won't fail to see, anyway.

Beware the seller who talks up the good and ignores the bad. He wants his $1500 car to be a $3000 car.

[zumir]

It has a new shifter knob.