E39 M5 rust

[aph202]

Hi all,

I am looking at buying an E39 M5, (my sensible side is trying to steer me away to a MkV Golf GTi, any help with quietening it would be appreciated).

I looked at one on Saturday, 72k miles but the face lift model. Very nice condition all round, except that under the bonnet there was quite a bit of rust in the two holes on the bonnet slam pannel where the bonnet is actually secured down...

Is this common?

I also looked at a W plate (so pre-face lift) car which also had a prob, but I shall post this seperately as it's a completely different kind of problem. However, generally speaking is it worth going for a 72k face lift model or a 55k pre face lift model? Both cars are in great condition and both have full main dealer history having last had an Inspection II.

Thanks,

Adrian.

[E38]

No idea on the rust....

But if you say both are in great condition, then I would go for the later car. Mileage is a factor but condition is the most important, and the facelift one would have reduced thirst for expensive oil (thanks to better gaskets IIRC), a nicer set of lights at the front and back, a better wheel and a satnav that could be upgraded to the very latest software with just a cd off the net. Oh and it would be worth that little bit more if you sell on....

[belleair302]

Total BMW did a buyers guide last month, go and get a copy from their back issues department!

[Daggerpie]

Yeah, last months Total BMW made for an interesting read if in the market for M5. Interestingly, my old one (sold it last week) is in the latest mag on page 57! Gutted

[rassi]

Known E39 rust issues are: Bootlid (near the rearlights), around the fuel filler (mine is booked to be done next week for the second time) and bubbling window trim (they are aluminium, so not actually rust but some kind of chemical reaction)