Which to buy - 1991 325i vs. 1990 525i - need opinions

Hi,

I'm very close to purchasing my first BMW, and am rather excited about it! I'll be going to see two cars tomorrow, and thought I'd check in here for some advice/opinions before I go.

The two BMWs I'll be looking at are:

1. 1991 325i - 180000 miles - $2750 - timing belt and clutch replaced about 2.5 - 3 years ago - brakes replaced about a year ago

2. 1990 525i - 192000 miles - $3000 - new timing belt, water pump, ignition components (plugs, wires, rotor, cap), vacuum hoses, valve clearance adjustment, all in the last few months

Does one of these models tend to be more mechanically sound than the other? Can I expect similar useful life expectancy, assuming similar treatment?

Is there anything in particular I should look for when looking either of these cars over?

Other than the obvious difference in size... is there any significant difference in handling? Power? etc.?

Thanks,
Scott

i would say that if your going to look for a 525i, i would get a 91 model with a M50 motor in it...the M20 in 1990 just isn't strong enough to pull that kind of weight...i know i had one

Originally Posted by SineMacula

Hi,

I'm very close to purchasing my first BMW, and am rather excited about it! I'll be going to see two cars tomorrow, and thought I'd check in here for some advice/opinions before I go.

The two BMWs I'll be looking at are:

1. 1991 325i - 180000 miles - $2750 - timing belt and clutch replaced about 2.5 - 3 years ago - brakes replaced about a year ago

2. 1990 525i - 192000 miles - $3000 - new timing belt, water pump, ignition components (plugs, wires, rotor, cap), vacuum hoses, valve clearance adjustment, all in the last few months

Does one of these models tend to be more mechanically sound than the other? Can I expect similar useful life expectancy, assuming similar treatment?

Is there anything in particular I should look for when looking either of these cars over?

Other than the obvious difference in size... is there any significant difference in handling? Power? etc.?

Thanks,
Scott

I can't comment on a reliability comparison, but I can tell you my Dad has a 90 E30 convertible with 120k on it and he has had very few problems with it. All things being equal, I'd buy the 325.

There's just something about the E30 that is so special.

Mechanically, these are pretty similar cars, same engine etc. It depends on what you're looking for, a larger 5 or a smaller 3? the 325 will be a pretty fun car, assuming it's not all worn out with that milage. The 525 will be a bit underpowered. I have heard of some cracked head issues with that engine if they overheat. If you really want a 525, i'd hold out to find a 91 or 92 with the M50 motor, a bit more power, and pretty sturdy.
Mike

Same engine, but two totally different cars. 3 series is smaller, sportier to drive, but lacking back seat room for adult passengers.

5-series has good rear seat room, but drives less sporty, as it's a bigger car.

Originally Posted by mottati

Mechanically, these are pretty similar cars, same engine etc. It depends on what you're looking for, a larger 5 or a smaller 3? the 325 will be a pretty fun car, assuming it's not all worn out with that milage. The 525 will be a bit underpowered. I have heard of some cracked head issues with that engine if they overheat. If you really want a 525, i'd hold out to find a 91 or 92 with the M50 motor, a bit more power, and pretty sturdy.
Mike

Still love that sig pic, it escapes me now, but name did you post under in RF?