To Buy?

Doing my research right now before I purchase this project. Between a 1995 525i or 1995 540i.

The 525's engine is clean as heck but has the traction control light on and brake light circuit warning. Some neglect on the exterior and interior.

The 540's damaged to the left front from an accident a couple years back. The guy knows nothing about the car. Interior leather is pristine. Car would need a new bumper, fender, headlight, corner marker, and some unknowns. Wont let me start the car b/c damages.

525 price $1750
540 price $2500

Comments?

PS: 525 manual 540 Not

Open to any criticism

Thanks and Cheers

Anyone who won't let you start the car should not expect more than scrap value for it. This guy is kidding on that if he has actually put the car up for sale.

Make him a deal. Tell him that you'll pay him $3000 for the 540i, less any repairs that it requires (AFTER you start the engine and take it for a test drive). Provide proof in terms of receipts, and draw up a private contract. Give yourself 3 months to do the repairs. Pay him $1k down first, do the repairs, then pay him the balance after its left over. If he won't accept it and does not exhibit a willingness to negotiate based on an acceptance of the predicament that he is in, then he must remain stuck with it.

Too many questions on 540i, I would go with the cheaper 525i. The flaws can be fixed over time while you enjoy driving it. The manual is a plus, too. A wrecked car that I cannot start is a no-go for me.

I'd go 525, you don't want to buy someone else's problems with the 540. Also you might have trouble getting it insured....

Picked up the 525. Now time to start the projects!

Originally Posted by AlwaysSomething

Picked up the 525. Now time to start the projects!

What did you pay for it ? Did you knock the price down further ?

The first thing you must do is kill all of the E34's common no-start problems. They are the CPS, fuel pump, and the fuel pump relay. Replace all of these immediately even if the current ones are fine.. They will fail unexpectedly and leave you stranded somewhere. It has happened so often on these forums. Use only OEM items. Its worth paying for. Nothing else would be reliable. Sell the used ones on Ebay if you wish.

The maintenance threads at the top of this list has all the rest that you need. Good luck and do post some pictures soon when the exterior and interior has been done.

Fixing, wrenching and repairing gives you ownership - Good luck!