e38 v. e32

[dmw]

I've got a buddy who wants to buy a 740iL or 750iL. He is thinking of 94-96. Is one style more reliable than the other? Is the 740 more reliable than the 750? Any known problems (other than the 740 engines in 94-95)? Thanks for the help.

FWIW - It looks like the older body style (e32) is considerably cheaper than the e38. Just because of the body style?

Thanks

[The Beastmaster]

If you think the 740il is expen$ive to repair, stay away from the 750il!

[umnitza]

dmw - try, very hard to get him to go to the 96 and up 740 models.

The alusil nikasil is always a crapshoot, so don't get into it:)

It's not JUST the body style, the 7 series was a pinnacle of engineering and much of the designs from it have been transferred to just about EVERY model in the range.

[dmw]

What if the 94-95 engine has been replaced? Is it then okay? I know to keep him away from '40s during those years unless he can confirm with the dealer the engine was replaced. Thanks.

[umnitza]

if the engine is confirmed to be replaced, I'd still consider a 98, that was the first year of the improved torque on the engines:)
4.4 is different than 4.0:D

[dmw]

Unfortunately, cost is an issue. He wants to keep it $20k or under.

[umnitza]

ebay:)

[umnitza]

or wait until the 24th.
I'm going to be going to a DEALER auction, I'll be able to determine if you can purchase a NICE E38 for $20K at the wholesale auction (the price will include broker's fee, after market warrant - you purcahse yourself, and any other fees).

That means, that the purchase price of the E38 will be in the neighborhood of about $15K:)