Should I pull the trigger on a 1995 BMW 540i M-Sport?

[RS4Drew]

Hello E34 brothers-

I currently own a well sorted 1991 BMW 535i/5, but I have stumbled across 1 0f the 135 1995 BMW 540i M-Sport model 30 minutes away from me and I have always had a desire to own this rare BMW. I am well educated about the M60 engine issues and especially aware of the risks of the EDC suspension going bad.

This is a 4 owner Black over Parchment M-Sport with 122k miles. In the last 4 years, the last two owners combined put 17,000 miles on the car. The current owner has spent $12,000 to freshen the car up. Re-did the radiator and all hoses and elements for the cooling system. Fresh tune up and all gaskets, hoses, and fluids changed. New M5 clutch kit. New tires and brakes. EDC has been gone over and up to date maintenance to the tune of $3,000 dollars. The car has stainless steel brake lines and a new Billy Boat exhaust with new cats and 02 sensors.

The car has ZERO rust and the paint is well preserved for a 17 year old car. The body is straight and very clean.

Now the issues:

Driver's seat is worn for being 17 years, but the bolsters. especially the one on the seat belt side is rough. The driver's seat power function to raise or lower the seat is hit or miss. The transmission when put in reverse will pop out on occasion.

Going to do the PPI tomorrow. Current owner is looking for $8,000. I plan to use this as a weekend/Sunday fun car and probably will only put 1,500-2,000 miles a year on the car and the rest of the time it will be in my garage.

Is this a wise purchase knowing what the issues are and buying this to enjoy on the weekends and to preserve for years to come?

Experiences, insight, and thoughts welcome.

Thank you,

Drew

[Rudolph320i]

ahh your lookin at that thing huh? i wished i could get something like that. and i think you could enjoy it for a while. i mean yea the m30 is a little more of a dead reliable beast than the m60, but either will last a very long time if you just take care of them. and how much fun is a 540 msport? lots.

[K Fox]

OP, well worded post. From what you said, it seems that you're well informed about the car and it's situation, so at this point it's just a personal decision on your part as to whether or not it's worth the money. I love my 540i6, and I do drive it every day. I will say that for a weekend 'play' car, the lack of crazy power might be a downer, but it depends on how you want to play. I like driving through my mountains, so I don't miss any power, myself. You need to be honest with yourself on why you want this do really decide if it's worth it or not.

If you do really want to pick this up, do be aware that it's highly unlikely that it's going to gain any value in the foreseeable future - it's just not a collector yet, if it'll ever even be one. :( I'd love one myself, but it's just not worth the cost right now with my current 540i6 in my hands. That's my opinion, hope it helps you clear your thoughts.

Fox

[jehu]

I'm looking at grabbing a regular 540/6 for just under that with a few more miles on it...

The fact the seat is worn would be a question as The M Sports came with what I thohght I read was a higer quality leather.. was it Dakota? Thohght that was heavier..

That sounds like a reasonable price to me for what you'e looking at..

I'd have the clutch checked out at least..

[RS4Drew]

I love my 535i/5 and the WOW factor of the M-Sport and service history in the last 2 years makes it interesting. Definitely not looking store for financial appreciation, but looking for a a fun and unique BMW to have as my toy for weekend fun and to appreciate and preserve an awesome machine and not let it go to waste or get beat on by someone who would not value the E34 M-Sport.

I must sound like an old man, but I'm not. Its a debate to keep my M30 E34 or go to the dark side of the M60.

Hmm

Is it dakota or bison leather?

[thatonedood]

"Should I pull the trigger on a 1995 BMW 540i M-Sport?"

yes

[Leonator134]

Hello! My advice is go for it! $8,000 is a lot of money and you could probably pick up a mint 540i/6 for a few thousand less, but owning a truly rare car has got to be a really cool feeling. (I pretend I know something about owning a rare car as my 540i/6 is supposedly 1 of 20 in its color combination out of the ~1,500 that came to the U.S.)

My 540i/6 with the same drivetrain is SUCH a blast to drive and it never gets old. I have only been driving it for a month and a half now and it is simply a muscle-car-beast! It has a lot of power and the acceleration is wild. Definitely a really fun car, I say go for it!

Leo


"Should I pull the trigger on a 1995 BMW 540i M-Sport?"

yes

+1

[jehu]

I love my 535i/5 and the WOW factor of the M-Sport and service history in the last 2 years makes it interesting. Definitely not looking store for financial appreciation, but looking for a a fun and unique BMW to have as my toy for weekend fun and to appreciate and preserve an awesome machine and not let it go to waste or get beat on by someone who would not value the E34 M-Sport.

I must sound like an old man, but I'm not. Its a debate to keep my M30 E34 or go to the dark side of the M60.

Hmm

Is it dakota or bison leather?
Leder Bison (Water Buffalo) was standard on the regualr 540/6 the M Sports got an upgraded leather

Apparently Montana leather as per this site

http://www.kindel.com/bmw/m540_info.htm

[RS4Drew]

Thanks Jehu for the correction.

My only concern is will I regret selling and will I miss my 535i/5?

[longwayhome23]

Hey, I was out in your neck of the woods recently (relatively speaking; Doylstown and environs).

Do I understand you to be saying you'll have to get rid of your M30 if you acquire the 540i? Because I would want to keep both. DD the 535i and have the M60 as your weekend "even more fun" car. This lets you have your cake and eat it too, with an E34 daily driver as well as one that you are basically preserving. Given the reality of PA winters, that's a great situation.

If storage space or budget considerations prevent you keeping both cars, I'd stick with the 535i. That's just me. But I would find it frustrating to have a great car that I felt I shouldn't drive too much.

Why is current owner selling? This seems like a major change of mind for him. He buys this car, puts $12K into freshening it up, drives it hardly at all, and is now selling. Perhaps the car has already cost him more than he expected, and he now fears gearbox and EDC repair/replacement costs?

Still, if you can comfortably write the check and would get joy out of having the car -- my vote would be go for it.

EDIT: New posts since I started writing. I see you would definitely be losing the 535i. It's a known quantity, "well sorted," and probably good for 400K miles. So this changes my mind a bit. What you're doing is more like flirting with a gorgeous woman while your faithful wife is away for the weekend. Don't do it -- these things never work out! LOL

[RS4Drew]

sad, but true that I would have to sell my 535i/5 with 146k to acquire the M-sport. Current owner just doesn't have the space or storage and wants to see the car go to someone who can take care of, plus he bought a jet ski for the NJ shore.

In a perfect wolrd, i'd keep my M30 E34 and get the M-Sport, but that would be be practical.

[Shoomakan]

I really feel there is no comparison between a standard 535i and an actual M-Sport. You compare the latter with M5's, in my opinion. I'd go with the 540i. Way more power, much more fun. I made the jump from M30 to M60 and am more than happy with my choice.

[RS4Drew]

Perhaps, but the needs of the M-Sport to make it whole as a well-sorted car, is it worth the $8,000 price if the PPI checks out?

[jehu]

Perhaps, but the needs of the M-Sport to make it whole as a well-sorted car, is it worth the $8,000 price if the PPI checks out?
You said he sank $3k into the EDC/SLS didn't you? What is left to do ?


For $8 k it should probably need nothing at all and be in excellent condition.. are the SLS shocks leaking? is there an EDC fault message appearing on the Instument Cluster?

[RS4Drew]

EDC is not the issue.

The driver's seat electronics with going up and down, plus the issue of the driver's seat being well worn, especially in the area of the bolsters.

That and the fact the reverse gear in the tranny will pop out on occasion.

That's what I mean to make this a well-sorted M-Sport, to address the issues I have noted above.

[Baupfhor]

Go for it!

[RS4Drew]

Go for it? At $8,000, plus needing to address the previous mentioned issues???

I can certainly afford it, but isn't $8,000 a premium for this car minor flaws?

[Cheche]

if the only issues are the above mentioned I would say go for it! if the current owner can provide you all the receipts of the new parts ($$) it should be pretty solid.

a good gearbox would go for what... $400? or even less for a regular one plus labor cost
and seats would be a lot cheaper... :D

[jehu]

EDC is not the issue.

The driver's seat electronics with going up and down, plus the issue of the driver's seat being well worn, especially in the area of the bolsters.

That and the fact the reverse gear in the tranny will pop out on occasion.

That's what I mean to make this a well-sorted M-Sport, to address the issues I have noted above.


Seats can be repaired and re-upholstered.. the gears are probably worn. they can be replaced either as entire sets brand new or disassembled and the worn gears sourced and replaced... There are six sections to the seat coverings I've been quoted about $90.00 / section.

The gearbox popping out of reverse I would expect would disappear with a change of Fluid...
My last 540 popped out of Fourth virtually every time right from the first test drive.. I bought it anyway and changed the fluid... (Royal Purple Max Life ATF) and it has not popped out since...with perhaps 70,000 miles driven.

With so few miles I'd be hornswoggled if the Getrag gearbox was damaged.


For me the biggest matter is the potential lifespan of the Engine which with so few miles makes it very desirable..

[staystackin]

Fixing the seat is a simple DIY job.

The gearbox thing sounds a bit more involved, but in a worst case scenario, you can buy the gearbox of a standard 540 being parted and do a swap.

If the cosmetics of the car are up to par with the mechanicals (basically rust/paint condition) then I say absolutely.

I have a standard 540i/6 and love it. the m60 is one hell of an engine. If (when) you buy it... post pictures!

[WestSeattle]

Well I have taken 6 off the road.

[Baupfhor]

Go for it? At $8,000, plus needing to address the previous mentioned issues???

I can certainly afford it, but isn't $8,000 a premium for this car minor flaws?

Those issues are minor. Sounds like all the major stuff has been taken care of. Use the minor stuff to try and negotiate the price. You're probably not going to come across a better example for the price from what it sounds like.

[jehu]

Fixing the seat is a simple DIY job.

The gearbox thing sounds a bit more involved, but in a worst case scenario, you can buy the gearbox of a standard 540 being parted and do a swap.

If the cosmetics of the car are up to par with the mechanicals (basically rust/paint condition) then I say absolutely.

I have a standard 540i/6 and love it. the m60 is one hell of an engine. If (when) you buy it... post pictures!


There are two types of seat gearboxes in e34's I bought a pair from Blitzkrieg Bob in Hawaii but they did not bolt on.. when I searched I found bavarian Autosport and I can only assume other such outlets if not BMW Dealerships themselves still can get the gear boxes new... or NOS.. they just bolt to the fram rail but removing and partly disassembling the seat is required.. Pulling the seat back off .. removing the cables .. not terribly difficult .. both my 540s had this problem where the rear heignt adjust was worn.
I just hear loud clicking when I actuate the motor .. I tried lifting the rear of the seat when operating the button but that had only limited affect..

check this site out they appear to sell seat leather..ma not be cut but you can bring it to an upholsterer..

http://parts.bmwofsouthatlanta.com/showAssembly.aspx?ukey_assembly=259340&ukey_make=974&ukey_model=13457&modelYear=1995&ukey_category=17909&ukey_driveLine=6490


My last 540 popped out of Fourth virtually every time right from the first test drivehttp://www.hgniw.info/11a.jpg
is there an echo in here?


if the only issues are the above mentioned I would say go for it! if the current owner can provide you all the receipts of the new parts ($$) it should be pretty solid.

a good gearbox would go for what... $400? or even less for a regular one plus labor cost
and seats would be a lot cheaper... :D
Goog getrag 6 speeds seem to fetch closer to double that for a high mile example.. certified low miles would be over a grand easily.. at least up here... maybe over in Europe it;d be different.

[RS4Drew]

Guys- I certainly look into the trans options for a fix. I will certainly be in a better position tomorrow after the PPI to know what to expect as the next owner of this M-Sport. It would be my hope to buy the car for less than $8,000. My only concern is will I miss and regret moving on from my 1991 535i/5 ?

[jehu]

Well I have taken 6 off the road.
How ? Why? I lost one from a rear end frame bending impact...

[Aradaiel]

haha.. a 535 is a nice car, no doubt about it. A 540/6 is in a different league, let alone an m-sport.

[jehu]

Guys- I certainly look into the trans options for a fix. I will certainly be in a better position tomorrow after the PPI to know what to expect as the next owner of this M-Sport. It would be my hope to buy the car for less than $8,000. My only concern is will I miss and regret moving on from my 1991 535i/5 ?
If you find you dislike serious power at your disposal you may be disappointed.

[Leonator134]

Guys- I certainly look into the trans options for a fix. I will certainly be in a better position tomorrow after the PPI to know what to expect as the next owner of this M-Sport. It would be my hope to buy the car for less than $8,000. My only concern is will I miss and regret moving on from my 1991 535i/5 ?

Of course you'll miss it, but change is good! It's not the end of the world (yet) so they're likely be an opportunity in which you can have one again!

[K Fox]

a good gearbox would go for what... $400? or even less for a regular one plus labor cost

Sadly, you're dreaming. That 6 speed is much more expensive. Though it can be sourced from the E39 540's also, it's still not any cheaper for it. :(


Seats can be repaired and re-upholstered.. the gears are probably worn.

Eh, I betting he just has the standard seat twist issue - simply trimming the cable sheathes should take care of that in about 20 minutes.

OP - I didn't realize that your were going to sell your 535 to acquire the M sport. Knowing that, you need to really drive the car first - since it's someone you know, see if he'll let you trade cars for a day. Leave your 535 there and drive the 540, and see what you think. Then sleep on it, and drive your 535 again. After that, you'll know one way or the other. Trust me - it'll be crystal clear, too. You'll either not be able to get your mind off the 540, or you simply won't understand the fuss. Either way, you'll have the right answer for you.

Fox

P.S. Remember - if it's a 'weekend warrior' you want, a modified 535 could mop the floor with any standard 540 or M-sport. Sure you can mod them too, but the point is to decide what you want before dropping any money. If it's the smooth rumbly sounding V8 power, then there you go. If it's the raw raucous of the M30 with a turbo, then that's easily do-able. Turbo'd and coil-overed 535 is a beast of a car. Just ask RedFive. :D But an M-sport is a flavor all it's own - and I personally love the sound of the V8. I'ma leave a link below to a thread with the best exhaust I've heard on an E34 yet. No we can't buy them, but it's not hard to build yourself - it was all Magnaflow. ;)

Aureal sex... (http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1549125&highlight=miller+exhaust)

[RS4Drew]

I know I would not be disappointed with the power of the M-Sport, I'm looking down the road as to doing my best not to have worry about developing any issues from the notorious M60 engine.

I'm going to see if I can have my cake and eat it too by keeping my 535i/5 and having the M-Sport.

[longwayhome23]

I know I would not be disappointed with the power of the M-Sport, I'm looking down the road as to doing my best not to have worry about developing any issues from the notorious M60 engine.

I'm going to see if I can have my cake and eat it too by keeping my 535i/5 and having the M-Sport.

Amen to this!!!

[nonturbodan]

With worn seats and a bad transmission, I wouldn't go over about 4.5k, assuming the rest of the car is immaculate.

[RS4Drew]

And here is the debbie downer posts I have been waiting for.

1) The one seat is worn, not both.
2) The issue with reverse pooping out occasion has not been determined a deal breaker.

So, please do the others on here feel this is a $4.5K car tops and that I would be over-paying at $8,000 for 1 of 135 1995 BMW 540i/6 M-Sports?

That's why I'd like to get honest opinions here to make sure others given similar circumstances would or would not purchase this particular care if they were me

[ross1]

EDC is not the issue.

The driver's seat electronics with going up and down, plus the issue of the driver's seat being well worn, especially in the area of the bolsters.

That and the fact the reverse gear in the tranny will pop out on occasion.

That's what I mean to make this a well-sorted M-Sport, to address the issues I have noted above.

janders211(?)had a gearbox with the same issue, he could perhaps give you some info.
It's my understaning that those boxes suffer from a dearth of replacement parts so usually considered disposable. Add ~$1K for good used to your budget, or grab your ankles for a new one.

[RS4Drew]

Ross-

Thanks for the information. I'll certainly reach out to JSanders!

Drew

I also confirmed that the car has the original engine and has not been replaced, but running very well and strong at 122K miles

[TGreene]

I have daily driven a 535i, 525i, M5 and 540i. My brother has an M-Sport. It is amazing how the M-Sport feels like it is a generation newer than the 535i and M5. I love my M5 to death but on paper the M60 drivetrain is better IMO. I don't think you will miss your 535i at all. Once you have driven the 540i you will want to sell the 535i and consolidate all of your resources into that one car. The M30 is a great engine but is more of a throw-back to old BMW. The M60 is a real competitor and so far, aside from the Nikasil problems, has proven to be as reliable as the old I6s. The only real downside is the lack of room in the engine bay.

$8,000 seems to be a high price for a car with transmission issues. Even if you are ready to spend $1,000 on a replacement, finding one might be tough and then you always have to install it.

The maintenance done by the previous owners could end up saving you a lot of money in the first years of ownership though so who knows. There are not many cars around to choose from with good paint, no rust, and a detailed history. The more time I spend around these cars, the more I am willing to pay up front for those qualities. I don't think that $8,000 is unreasonable.

[RS4Drew]

T-

$8,000 is not unreasonable, but i don't want to get burned either. if I could get it at $7,500 I would feel good if it passes the PPI today with flying colors.

[gixxerboy63]

I love my Msport!

There were only about 204 originally produced ....and thanks to WestSeattle and normal attrition, they will become more rare and difficult to find. Yes, there are a few around now, but try to find one in another ten years!

Although I have EDC delete in mine, I am quite happy with the Vogtland/Koni setup (Who knows? Maybe I will start collecting the EDC parts I need and reinstall it one day...).

Mine still has the M mirrors, front spoiler, side sills and rear apron, M door seal covers, M stripe illuminated shift knob, M tri-stitched steering wheel and Bigger 315mmx28 M5 brakes + higher rev limit and higher top speed (155mph). In all, this was about an $8000 package on top of the regular 540i price back in '95....

All of these things can be added/upgraded to a std. 540i/6, but pricey add on's can quickly exceed the current price difference between the two cars. The biggest advantage is that the one you are considering has an operational EDC system! I don't remember your mention of what wheels were on the car and their condition, but the Throwing stars are way cool and an improvement over the std. wheels. You can alway opt for 18" M parallels if you want to remain "period correct"

In all, I feel like $8000 is a good buy in this car considering the said appearance, maintenance history and functioning EDC.

Once you are riding around in a well appointed V8 powered version of the e34, I doubt that you will miss the 535i much... The Msport is one heck of a car.

[RS4Drew]

It has the T-Stars.Minor curb rash on one or two:mad

[jehu]

T-

$8,000 is not unreasonable, but i don't want to get burned either. if I could get it at $7,500 I would feel good if it passes the PPI today with flying colors.


Ask him to change the Tranny Fluid and see if that fixes the issue..

[RS4Drew]

I'll see when it was last done before I do that.

And if I do that and it fixes the issue, he may want more or I can sleep easy that that was a nice way to resolve the issue.

Curious, not that I am totally clueless, but by changing the tranny fluid, how might that resolve the issue with reverse not staying when engaged?

[E34nication]

Sounds like the same problem my transmission was having... I replaced it to get rid of the issue.

[RS4Drew]

Not sure I want to go replacing the transmission at this time...

[jehu]

As I mentioned the last one I bought which had 175,000 on the odo popped out fof Fourth until I changed the Fluid.. perhaps someone used an unapproved fluid before..

I am unaware how Reverse might be any different than any of the forward gears so I offered my experience..

[RS4Drew]

Jehu-

I appreciate your input and contributions to my thread

Drew

[jehu]

Jehu-

I appreciate your input and contributions to my thread

Drew
No problems.. if I were the seller changing the fluid would be no problem.. if it fixes the issue I'd see no basis to raise my price... even the cost the fluid but that's just me. I like to work with people that way when its within my power to do so..

While a transmission swap isn't really all that difficult a job If a fluid change was not to fix the popping out issue and you still wanted it I'd say at least $2k would have to come off the price..

I also have an original never replaced Nikasil M60B40 now with over 230,000 miles on it and while I only paid $2,300 for the car despite my concerns it runs as new even now..

I can see over 25MPG on the On Board Computer driving at 60 MPH on reasonably flat surfaces in sixth gear which suggests to me the engine is not worn and the Nikasil Sulfur issue never impacted this block..

Maybe it helped the car went to Florida where the gas was better refined than other areas where more engines went bad..

The consensus is if the engine hasn't started showing the clear signs of degradation by now it won't .

The seller of the car I"m looking at believes fuels were all being refined by 1996 to eliminate the high Sulfur .. it may be that an owner used only the highest grades of Top Tier fuels also even in areas where Sulfur was higher while driving it relatively infrequently ..

My concern was Chemistry is Chemistry and any engine run on any fuel with high enough sulfur content had to experience some adverse interaction.

My present engine evidently escaped unscathed.. the problem never arose in Europe.. so its not as though the Nik design is somehow fatally flawed and they're all ticking time bombs..

Have you considered doing a Leak Down and Compression tests ? Those would at least show you just where the engine is ..

I would prefer if spending this much not to need to do anything other than turn the key and floor the accelerator pedal but I really enjoy these models so much I think some effort is justified to achieve owning one .. at least for a little while..


I had an opportunity to own a Black on black M Sport locally. I test drove it and loved it but I was spooked by an EDC warning on the console fearing the possible $8,000 parts alone hit to replace the system or making the choice to replace it with a standard suspension which also entails some particular modifications such as replacing the Power Steering Pump and the stigma of being that guy who butchered an M Sport...:)

[Sneezy]

Maybe it helped the car went to Florida where the gas was better refined than other areas where more engines went bad..

Mine started life in Florida and had the engine replaced at <30K...

[RS4Drew]

I'm certainly considering a leak-down test. I want the car, but don't want to pay a premium for a premium car with possible future headaches, but that is the cost of ownership!

[Sneezy]

Rest assured there will be future headaches, it is inevitable.

[jehu]

Mine started life in Florida and had the engine replaced at <30K...
Hmmm... e34croak checked the service history for me on this car and it had been checked at the dealer in 2000 and passed, no action needed..

Maybe just down to which fuels were coming out of the pump ?

Did it get an Alusil or another Nik? How's the replacement running?

[Sneezy]

You know, I have no idea. I just assumed it was the Alusil but I suppose if it was early enough it could have gotten a Nik.

Regardless, it runs well so is fine either way.

[staystackin]

If you don't end up buying the car (definitely a bad idea, buy it) then please pass the sellers info along to the MANY board members who would gladly buy it if you don't/can't.

Again, I still say go for it. It's worth whatever issues you'll deal with because you'll likely deal with many of them on your 535i at some point as well.

[RS4Drew]

My 535i/5 is pretty solid. I've addressed all its issues. That's why I'd like to keep it as well.

[M540fella]

Sadly, you're dreaming. That 6 speed is much more expensive. Though it can be sourced from the E39 540's also, it's still not any cheaper for it. :(

It's actually that's pretty close to what they're going for. I've started looking into a swap for my auto msport.
Here's one for $400 http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1929876

[RS4Drew]

Interesting information.

Thxs

[jehu]

It's actually that's pretty close to what they're going for. I've started looking into a swap for my auto msport.
Here's one for $400 http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1929876
grab it... that guy is high on shine..

[FoxCruiser]

This sounds like a huge dilemma. I was originally looking for a 535i/5, ended up with a 540i/6 without even test-driving the big 6.

I think your only real concern at this point should be the EDC. If you've got records for all the major stuff like the water pump, valley pan, power steering and other related mechanicals you should be fine. Engine mounts are another thing you should have them check as they can cause all sorts of wonky when they fail(ask me how I know). That shouldn't be a deal breaker as you're looking at about $160 in parts for engine/trans mounts and it's relatively easy to get done(my indy charged me $430 labor for the engine/trans mounts as well as the guibo and CSB).

If the EDC doesn't seem like it's giving you any issues and you understand that an M-Sport does require some decent upkeep, I'm all for you getting it. I missed out on one that was being offered a month after I picked up my 540i/6, though it had issues and I was likely much better off sticking with what I have. While I do get frustrated with the gripey little issues I'm dealing with now the 540i/6 has been a good car. Wonderful autobahn stormer and surprisingly comfortable. I've got 202K on mine and no real issues other than fixing up some neglect, wear, and tear over the years.

To get slightly off topic: K Fox, do you have any particulars on how to build a similar exhaust to the one you linked us to? Even if it's not SS if I could make my car sound like that rather than deal with the frustrating 'there's a V8 in there somewhere' stock exhaust note I'd be in heaven.

[staystackin]

To get slightly off topic: K Fox, do you have any particulars on how to build a similar exhaust to the one you linked us to? Even if it's not SS if I could make my car sound like that rather than deal with the frustrating 'there's a V8 in there somewhere' stock exhaust note I'd be in heaven.

All I did was have an exhaust shop remove the resonator and muffler, and then run a regular pipe from the cats to the magnaflow. Sounds great and totally legal.

[RS4Drew]

So I just finished the ppi. Minor leak from the valve cover gaskets. Not hitting the floor all. Little bit of fluid on tranny and tiny bit on the power steering pump. Underneath is clean and solid with all new tires exhaust billy boat and the EDC is solid and intact.

Both seats have the dreaded seat twist if you adjust them, but they are in the right position.

My mechanic BMW master tech told me its turn key and will not need anything mechanically for a long time at 122k if plan on driving it just on Sundays. I drove the car and it is S E X.

Guys still think I should pull the trigger at $8,000? It comes with a folder full of reciets going back to 2006 totaling over $15,000 in maintenance.

O boy!!!

[gixxerboy63]

It's obvious that you are excited about it. $8000 still seems like a good buy considering the condition and maintenance records....Why not? What would keep you from buying it?

+ you could contribute to NikosX's thread once you buy it ....and the total count of Msports living in our sub-forum would reach a total of 17 cars!http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1760155

[RS4Drew]

I'm Also excited about my dinner at a Brazilian steakhouse at 7pm, but will i regret stuffing myself on tasty food offerings. So I want to be smart and not stupid on my decision.

[Mapearso]

Guys still think I should pull the trigger at $8,000?



Yes.

It sounds like it is/has all you could ask for if you're in the market for a 540i M-Sport. The price is fair. You might find another one and maybe do a little better but it will likely have its own issues

IMO simply comes down to whether you want one of these. Good luck and please share if you decide to buy

[Cheche]

It's actually that's pretty close to what they're going for. I've started looking into a swap for my auto msport.
Here's one for $400 http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1929876

Do want!! damn if I hadnt need new cats and 02 sensors :mad I would get this right away!

[M540fella]

You and me both my friend. I just spent a ton of money on my coilovers.

[jehu]

So I just finished the ppi. Minor leak from the valve cover gaskets. Not hitting the floor all. Little bit of fluid on tranny and tiny bit on the power steering pump. Underneath is clean and solid with all new tires exhaust billy boat and the EDC is solid and intact.

Both seats have the dreaded seat twist if you adjust them, but they are in the right position.

My mechanic BMW master tech told me its turn key and will not need anything mechanically for a long time at 122k if plan on driving it just on Sundays. I drove the car and it is S E X.

Guys still think I should pull the trigger at $8,000? It comes with a folder full of reciets going back to 2006 totaling over $15,000 in maintenance.

O boy!!!
I think so... The seat twist is a simple fix with tons of DIY's w/ pictures on line.. almost everyone here has done it at least once..

maybe just wait till after 12-21-2012 to be sure you'll actually be able to enjoy it...

[K Fox]

Guys still think I should pull the trigger at $8,000? It comes with a folder full of reciets going back to 2006 totaling over $15,000 in maintenance.

O boy!!!

Well, I'll just say this. You drove it and you love it, you've always wanted one you said, and it checked out healthy. So yeah, it sounds like you should go ahead and pick it up. As for the 'is it worth it' question, it's not up to us. If you're comfortable writing the check and you know you're going to enjoy the car, then it should be an easy decision. Don't rely on us to tell you it's worth it or not - that's a decision for the buyer to make on any purchase. Hell, I'd likely pay more than that for a car that knocked my socks off (if I wore any, that is), but I'd also do it knowing that the cost only mattered to me - that's why I brought up the 'collector' status in my first post - it means that the value of the car is not more important than what it's worth to YOU. No-one else matters. Write your check and enjoy your car. ;) A clean PPI is a rarity nowadays.



maybe just wait till after 12-21-2012 to be sure you'll actually be able to enjoy it...

P.S. It wouldn't really matter anyway - what good is the money gonna do him??!? And really??!?!

Fox

[RS4Drew]

Spoke to my wife last night and this morning regarding the M-sport and will be contacting the seller today!!!

[Almighty Wez]

Spoke to my wife last night and this morning regarding the M-sport and will be contacting the seller today!!!

Hopefully you get it, would be nice to know there's one around the area as I'm pretty local to you :D

[RS4Drew]

Nice, I'm like 15-20 minutes away!

So, even though the car passed the PPI with flying colors, I ran a carfax and the car was in an accident in 2005, but no report as to the extent of damage or point of impact.

So, should I worry or still go for it?

[hammy35]

Check the vin tags. Personally I wouldn't worry about it, but that's really your call. If the title is clean, then the accident couldn't have been too bad since it happened in 05. It doesn't take much to total these things out.

sent from a chalupa

[Leonator134]

Yep make sure title is good, then go for it!

[RS4Drew]

Think I'm buying me an M-Sport, Y'ALL

[longwayhome23]

Congrats! Post pics, please.

[RS4Drew]

Once I gets it home, but not today or this week.

[gixxerboy63]

You will be happy that you bought it!
:cool

[RS4Drew]

Then why am I starting to miss my 535i/5?

[K Fox]

Then why am I starting to miss my 535i/5?

Murphy's law - and it's normal human nature. Rose colored glasses and all that...but that's why I said to drive your 535 after testing the M-sport - that should've made it obvious which one you wanted more. So if you're missing the 535, go drive the M-sport. :D You shouldn't miss the 535 anymore.

Fox

[jehu]

Well, I'll just say this. You drove it and you love it, you've always wanted one you said, and it checked out healthy. So yeah, it sounds like you should go ahead and pick it up. As for the 'is it worth it' question, it's not up to us. If you're comfortable writing the check and you know you're going to enjoy the car, then it should be an easy decision. Don't rely on us to tell you it's worth it or not - that's a decision for the buyer to make on any purchase. Hell, I'd likely pay more than that for a car that knocked my socks off (if I wore any, that is), but I'd also do it knowing that the cost only mattered to me - that's why I brought up the 'collector' status in my first post - it means that the value of the car is not more important than what it's worth to YOU. No-one else matters. Write your check and enjoy your car. ;) A clean PPI is a rarity nowadays.




P.S. It wouldn't really matter anyway - what good is the money gonna do him??!? And really??!?!

Fox


Juts making sport of the whole thing... I'll stick to truth and reality from now on.. sorry..

OP... good luck.. and keep your head.

[RS4Drew]

I always do!

Well-

I sent a deposit to the owner of the M-Sport and plan on picking up next Saturday as I am spending this weekend with my In-Laws in the Harrisburg, PA area to celebrate Christmas. So I will have a little wait, but hopefully a present well worth waiting for!

Sorry fellas, but I need to vent here. As I indicated earlier, I sent the current owner of the M-Sport a deposit of $500 to hold the car until we can finalize the deal next weekend due the holiday's and work, etc...He asks me to send the deposit via paypal and send the deposit as a gift to avoid any fees, which I did. However Paypal asked me for an additional $15 to send my own money to a guy who is getting $500 now and the another $7,500 next week for a total of $8,000 for a clean and well sorted, but not a MINT M-Sport.

He sends me a text asking for the $15 fee to be built in to the balance due, so instead of $7,500 he was going to write up the bill of sale for $8.015-$500. And he says i am getting a steal at $8,000, so I ask you was I out of line not to pay the $15 fee? Not looking to point fingers or blame, but if someone was giving me $8,000, i would not be-grudge them $15, especially when it was because of a 3rd party matter like Paypal.

[FoxCruiser]

Hm... I've never dealt with Paypal issues like this personally, but in all honesty if I was in the seller's position I really wouldn't care about a $15.00 fee when it comes to be sitting on a car I know I'm going to be getting $8K for. I'd chalk it up as the cost of doing business and move on.

Especially when this is a deposit to hold the car and as such that money(at least in my opinion) shouldn't even be looked at funny until the car is either sold and they get the balance, or you decide to not get the car and the balance is refunded to you.

[njg86]

I'll side with the seller as this just happened to me with a steering wheel I sold. The buyer wasnt aware that the seller is not suppose to pick up the Paypal fees unless ofcourse the seller says "dont worry about the paypal fees". He's asking a certain amount for the car which he is entitled to standing by.

Kinda like buying something at the store and expecting the store to pay the taxes on it. I wouldn't fret over the $15 especially if you are getting a good deal.

-I'm in for pics of this vehicle too-

[rivalschools]

Hm... I've never dealt with Paypal issues like this personally, but in all honesty if I was in the seller's position I really wouldn't care about a $15.00 fee when it comes to be sitting on a car I know I'm going to be getting $8K for. I'd chalk it up as the cost of doing business and move on.

Yeah, this. Was he not aware that Paypal clips a percentage?

I use it as my last resort when getting paid by clients, but at the end of the day the convenience is worth not having to hound people to save that 2.5-3%.

[Leonator134]

I hope he doesn't turn out to be a shyster.

Can't wait to see it though! Glad to you bought it!

[jehu]

While I probably wouldn't back out over it my position is The one who asks to use Paypal should pay the fees or offer to split them if there is another means to transact which doesn't charge one.... ultimately $15 is nothing when you;re dealing with $8k so unless you're willing to escalate the issue pay it and get back to enjoyign the Holiday and anticipating the car..



I always do!

Well-

I sent a deposit to the owner of the M-Sport and plan on picking up next Saturday as I am spending this weekend with my In-Laws in the Harrisburg, PA area to celebrate Christmas. So I will have a little wait, but hopefully a present well worth waiting for!

Sorry fellas, but I need to vent here. As I indicated earlier, I sent the current owner of the M-Sport a deposit of $500 to hold the car until we can finalize the deal next weekend due the holiday's and work, etc...He asks me to send the deposit via paypal and send the deposit as a gift to avoid any fees, which I did. However Paypal asked me for an additional $15 to send my own money to a guy who is getting $500 now and the another $7,500 next week for a total of $8,000 for a clean and well sorted, but not a MINT M-Sport.

He sends me a text asking for the $15 fee to be built in to the balance due, so instead of $7,500 he was going to write up the bill of sale for $8.015-$500. And he says i am getting a steal at $8,000, so I ask you was I out of line not to pay the $15 fee? Not looking to point fingers or blame, but if someone was giving me $8,000, i would not be-grudge them $15, especially when it was because of a 3rd party matter like Paypal.

[RS4Drew]

It's done and we spoke about it. We're all like fonzi know, cool!

Jehu so cannot wait to get it home and detail the piss out of it and slap it in the garage.

[Jbmw540]

Go for it.
Once you drive the V8 with the 6 speed your 535 will make you
unhappy.

I got my E34 540-6 with a million headaches but whenever I drive it
it puts a smile on my face.
I have a perfected 540iA that I put a lot of $$ into and it doesn't
even compare.

[RS4Drew]

Duh, I do have pictures! These are picture the current owner sent me before we met. Enjoy!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/91304044@N05/

[Leonator134]

Hey, I saw that car on craigslist a few months back! Glad someone here bought it! Looks great!

[RS4Drew]

Really, the owner put it up on CL? Thought he just did it on the bfc?

hmmm

[shaytanabyad]

Car looks great. I love mine. Good luck!

[RS4Drew]

To add to my dilemma, here is my 1991 BMW 535i/5 with 146K. When I bought it in June 2009, it had 136K on it. I've done Inspection II, new HD Billy's on all 4 corners, Cat-Back Remus exhaust, Water pump, hoses, belts, etc... Euro Smiley's after this picture was taken...

I can afford the M-Sport and the maintenance, but still worry about the EDC and it being an M60 engine, but with risk comes reward as well.

I just hate having to sell "Goldie" to move up to the M-Sport. I can offered M-Sport and not having to sell my 1991 E34, but my wife would kill me if I had 2 manual transmission cars she could not drive...

[Mapearso]

If/when the EDC craps out just switch out to a set of non-EDC shocks/springs of your liking. That's what I'll do if/when I have to cross that bridge. Others here have done the same. Search Gixxer's build thread

[RS4Drew]

Depends if you feel keeping the EDC will preserve the value if the car since the EDC is what separates this E34 along with the other options with the $8000 M-Sport option

[Mapearso]

Spending a fortune to keep the EDC is an interesting way of "preserving value".

It would preserve the originality of course. But the "value", I'm not so sure if you'd come out ahead on that one.

Depends on you preferences, plans and depth of pockets I guess. I own one and I think you see where I come out.

[gixxerboy63]

So.... is the car in your possession yet? Let us know; We need to add you to the Msport owner's list here;
http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1760155&page=4 (http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1760155&page=4)


Spending a fortune to keep the EDC is an interesting way of "preserving value".

It would preserve the originality of course. But the "value", I'm not so sure if you'd come out ahead on that one.

Depends on you preferences, plans and depth of pockets I guess. I own one and I think you see where I come out.


My EDC Story;
I really wanted to keep my EDC to preserve the originallity of my car, but it basically came down to this; I was looking at over $4000 for a proper rebuild and for that amount of coin, I felt that I owed it to myself to explore an alternative solution.

After weighing my options, I decided on a Vogtland/Koni package for about a 1/4 of the price. In some ways, I may have failed to preserve my car, but I am extremely pleased with the new setup. My car has a betterstance, is very compliant, yet stiffens up quikly and tracks like a dream when driven aggressively. I cannot imagine that the EDC system would have offered any advantage other than keeping the originallity of the car intact.

A purist wouldn't like my car anyway... I have changed too many things that suggests my own agenda; wheels, suspension, interior, exhaust and the driveline have all been altered to my liking. The Msport only remains in it's identifying VIN#.

In retrospect, it only has to make one person happy;
ME!
:cool

[darknezz7]

yea did ya get it? 8k seems a bit high to me with it being a little rough but they are very rare. Id want black int if paying that though.

also to everyone saying the 420g is so expensive

I just got mine for $400 local its got around 150k out of a driving car. Though I realize they are fairly rare, and NEVER around my area, I jumped on it the same day it was posted on clist.

[RS4Drew]

I am picking up the M-Sport this coming Saturday. While I feel and understand that $8,000 might seem a bit much for a clean and well sorted car with $12,000 worth of maintennce in the last 3 years, there is an M-Sport on Colorado with 140,000 miles and the owner is asking $14,000, so I'd say $8,000 is pretty good for a car that had only 200 models produced.

[Leonator134]

I am picking up the M-Sport this coming Saturday. While I feel and understand that $8,000 might seem a bit much for a clean and well sorted car with $12,000 worth of maintennce in the last 3 years, there is an M-Sport on Colorado with 140,000 miles and the owner is asking $14,000, so I'd say $8,000 is pretty good for a car that had only 200 models produced.

You did very well, and that's the final say :stickoutt

[bubba966]

I am picking up the M-Sport this coming Saturday. While I feel and understand that $8,000 might seem a bit much for a clean and well sorted car with $12,000 worth of maintennce in the last 3 years, there is an M-Sport on Colorado with 140,000 miles and the owner is asking $14,000, so I'd say $8,000 is pretty good for a car that had only 200 models produced.

$8k isn't bad at all for that car in good condition. I'd say that's the lower end of pricing on a good condition M-Sport manual. FWIW I bought mine for $12k w/149k miles. But it was very well kept and had brand new set of PS2's on it ($1k right there) I looked every day or two all over the entire country for mine for 2 1/2 years. Have never regretted buying it. It's so very nice to drive.

Oh, and my front EDC's died around 175k, rears are still good with 190k on them. Treat the car right and things last quite a while. Don't treat it well and things will need replacing more frequently.

And keep the EDC. You know it's what makes an M-Sport an M-sport. No EDC = 540 w/M-Tech appearance package IMO. It's just not the same...

[RS4Drew]

I hear that Bubba. It has a new set of Michelin Sport's with like a 1,000 miles and the only thing keeping the car from being a 10 instead of an 8 is the driver's seat needing TLC and a re-spray of the front air dam.

[bubba966]

Mine is going to need some new tires soon so it'll get Pilot Super Sports since the PS2 is discontinued. Those two issues you listed are very common on sport seats & front bumpers. And not too hard to take care of.

I was very lucky in how well the PO kept up the one I bought. I had a very high end detailer go over it after I bought it and he thought the entire interior had be re-done. But it was all original, just well kept by the PO. And he was always careful how he got in and out of the drivers seat so as to keep wear on the side bolster to a minimum. And now at 190k it just barely starting to show wear there. Gotta love a nice interior.... :D

[RS4Drew]

Yep, the 2 po's before the guy owned a detail shop, so the car is in real good shape.

[bubba966]

I don't think you'll miss your M30 too much after you've spent some time behind the wheel of your M-Sport. Especially after you've got it sorted out to your liking.

Talk to DUDMD about one of his chips for your car. They're even more fun to drive with good engine software like he can burn you.

[FoxCruiser]

I don't think you'll miss your M30 too much after you've spent some time behind the wheel of your M-Sport. Especially after you've got it sorted out to your liking.

Talk to DUDMD about one of his chips for your car. They're even more fun to drive with good engine software like he can burn you.

Agreed. I haven't driven another E34 except my 540, but there is definitely some major fun factor there.

[gixxerboy63]

Well.....
Did you get the car?

[RS4Drew]

No, I decided to pass on the M-Sport at $8,000. I could accept the follow issues with the car at $8,000:

1) 122,500 on original Niskal motor
2) Leak from valve cover gasket
3) Leak from power steering unit
4) Both front seats had seat twist (Easy DIY fix)
5) Driver's seat had the entire leather very worn and needed to be re-upholstered
6) 1 0f the 4 PO's cut the springs to lower the stance, why I have no idea
7) Outside temperature readout on OBC not functioning correctly
8) Carfax report has a reported accident from 2005 (Fine, no biggie as car was very clean and straight)
9) Front air-dam due for a re-spray
10) Need to spend $500 for my Saturn SL1 beater car and $400 on my iX between state inspection and fixing a leaky rear diff

What issues I could not accept for the $8,000:

1) The reverse gear in the transmission popping out a couple of times before staying when engaged (Happens on a regular basis). A known issue by the last 2 PO's.

2) The current owner telling me repeatedly that the car is a steal for $8,000 and how he could be getting more for this car in its current condition (Like he is doing me a huge favor after the car being for sale since September 24, 2012 at an asking prince of $8,500)

So I decided to walk away and say F that noise. For my $8,000, I can wait for a better opportunity. I still have my 535i/5 and my E30 325iX. Not like I am hurting to own another car right now:shifty

[Leonator134]

Too bad :(

[RS4Drew]

I hear you, but I know I did the right thing at the end of the day. As much as I wanted to the car and I did, badly, I needed to make a logical decision and not an emotional one.

[Leonator134]

True. A nice 540/6 will come up for way less money.

[RS4Drew]

My thoughts exactly!

[TGreene]

We will be disapointed that we won't get a bunch of pictures and won't see the car here in the forums, but it sounds like you made the right choice. If there is any doubt, there is no doubt.

I also get bothered when sellers tell me what a great deal something is. I wanted to walk away from a deal once. The seller glared at me when I came to pick up the car and sign the paperwork. He told me that I was getting the car for a steal. It was very tempting to walk away and teach him a lesson in the true market value of old beat up BMWs.

[gixxerboy63]

Disappointed that you didn't save this one, but hopefully you will find one that fits you better.

[RS4Drew]

I completely agree with you, T. The fact of the matter is that the car shows well for being 18 years old, but if you polish a turd, it is still a turd. very nice looking, but not for my hard earned money. And if the car was such a deal and a steal, why has no one else even sniffed it after 3 months and I come with $8,000 cash and it's a steal, heck no! I drove straight to the bank and re-deposited my money.

I hope so G. I really do. I walked around the car and looked everything over and all the mental gymnastics in my head, but knew I'd feel like I just overpaid for a car I could not justify spending the coin on.

I'll sleep better at night with the $8,000 in the bank and the M-Sport not in my driveway!

[Sneezy]

Most likely made the right call, if you didn't fall in love with it you would have ended up with the buyers remorse thingy later.

Go buy one for cheaps that needs everything. By the time you are done you will have $30K in a $10K car, but you will know exactly what you have...a bronzed turd.

[RS4Drew]

Sneezy-

Perhaps. Perhaps not. Time will tell. I did fall in love with it, very hard and fast and got seduced by the V8 and exhaust note and rarity, but in the end I love doing the right thing more than doing something off of an emotional decision.

[RS4Drew]

So the M-Sport is back up for sale locally to me, as previously, but now the owner seems humbled by the $7,000 obo price, but admits it will need the EDC re-freshed, valve covers replaced, badly worn drivers seat and both front seats still with the seat twist issue.

Thought i'd contact him and offer $6,000.

[T444E]

$6,000 is too much IMO.

[FoxCruiser]

^Agreed. Not worth that for what you'll have to sink into it. A while back I saw one in similar shape to my 540/6(at the time of its purchase) with blown EDC for about $3K.

[RS4Drew]

It did have a solid PPI back in December, but I don't totally disagree with anyone

[atl530i]

I paid $5300 for mine which already had a lot of stuff done to it and also came with a 2" binder of records dating back to 12/1996 (my car is a 10/1995 prod car). It had a 9/10 interior, some shimmy in the front end (expected), no rust, and some rock chips on the front of the car when I first looked at it. I ended up putting another $500 in intake, cooling, and tune up parts to make it run right so I'm still under 6k. Haggle the guy more is my point...

[Psykick5]

Yeah I've seen this one for sale in the classifieds section. Offer him $5500. EDC is a HUGE issue because of the cost of parts involved.

[gixxerboy63]

I paid $4000 for mine; all original with blown EDC. Paint 9/10, Interior 9/10, strong motor, few leaks underneath that needed addressing but otherwise very clean. It was a good candidate for my intentions.

[ShapeShifter]

No new baby???

[RS4Drew]

Pat-

Please do not mix my personal life in my thread regarding a passing comment I made about a car I looked at 6 months ago.

[T444E]

Lul oh snap.
Sent from my HTC6990LVW using Board Express

[Elekta]

Rear EDC is $2900 for all bits and boodles. $2800 for the front. Not including 2 accumulators, the 2 hoses, the proportioning valve and cans of Pentosin.

Installation is not included.

That said, the car would last another 100k on the new suspension, and you'd get better market value for it if you decided to sell.

But with 4 blown EDC, I'd say $6k is too much also...unless seats, engine, brakes, clutch, gb and paint were near minter

[PorscheH6]

$6k is rediculous...and the the guy who said offer $5500...stop giving advice :rofl :rofl

[K Fox]

$6k is rediculous...and the the guy who said offer $5500...stop giving advice :rofl :rofl

Wait, wut??!? Nothing is enough for you, is it?? :shifty

OP - is this the same Black on Parchment from the first post? I just went and re-read it to remember, but you said everything was decent, including the EDC?? Even if it's tired, you might have a little time before replacing it, meaning maybe you can do one end at a time instead of all at once. But if the car is clean I say it's worth a $5500 offer. How worn was the bolster on the seat?? Can a filler and dye job get a few more years out of it, or was it cracked through in places? My thinking here is that even with the EDC refresh if you can have a well sorted M-sport for under $10k I think it's very worth it, and at $5500 that seems pretty close. And if you did a proper PPI and it came out mostly clean, that's a very nice place to start from to have a nice end product car. Just tally up the known issues, and figure out how much it'd be to take care of them, then subtract from his $6k - and if you lay it out to the seller that way, you're much more likely to have him accept the offer. Just my $.02

Fox

[gixxerboy63]

My original intention was to keep my car totally original, but the idea was forever changed by the challenges of the blown EDC... $6000 to refresh the system only to realize a $1500 increase in market value made no sense to me.

....so I made better use of the proposed $6k; I bought a Koni/Vogtland suspension, new Mpars, accomplished tons of preventative maintenance, added some nice performance goodies and the Vortech Supercharger was also purchased (for about the same amount of coin).

I am pretty sure that my car is far more interesting now than it would have been had I kept it stock... Is is worth more/less? Who cares!!! I didn't build it to resale.
;)

[RS4Drew]

It is the same car from my original post. Drivers seat is worn and old beyond patina. Bolsters have holes in them as well. During the PPI in December my mechanic could not tell if the EDC were original of replaced but he did they that they were not blown or going bad...

[K Fox]

It is the same car from my original post. Drivers seat is worn and old beyond patina. Bolsters have holes in them as well. During the PPI in December my mechanic could not tell if the EDC were original of replaced but he did they that they were not blown or going bad...

Have you driven the car yourself? How did the suspension feel to you? Blown shocks are obvious, and if those are still tight, you might have some decent mileage left in them before you'd need to drop the coin on the pricey replacement. That does make the car worth more than if they were in need of replacement now, as some of the guys here are implying. Just because it's expensive to replace EDC hardware, doesn't automatically mean the car is worthless - if there's still a fair amount of mileage left in them then enjoy that while planning on the eventual refurb. In other words, if I were looking at it, I'd probably get it - just base how much to take off on how tight the shocks are (meaning estimate how much life is left in them). Half worn?? Half off. You get the idea. Again, my $.02

Fox

[BigM62]

I love my 535i/5 and the WOW factor of the M-Sport and service history in the last 2 years makes it interesting. Definitely not looking store for financial appreciation, but looking for a a fun and unique BMW to have as my toy for weekend fun and to appreciate and preserve an awesome machine and not let it go to waste or get beat on by someone who would not value the E34 M-Sport.

I must sound like an old man, but I'm not. Its a debate to keep my M30 E34 or go to the dark side of the M60.

Hmm

Is it dakota or bison leather?

I have both. If I had to do it over again, just upgrade the suspension and get a Miller Performance War Chip+ Miller MAF.