Which E28?

[detomaso]

I am considering buying an old e28 5-series, but am unsure which is the best model to start with. I want pace and the nice sound of a straight 6 engine, so am considering either a 525e, 528i or 535i. The 525e seems the best all rounder, but do you think I will be dissapointed with the performance? Has anybody got any of these and can shed some light?

cheers

[silverback mike]

I used to own a 528i. An excellent all rounder. I must admit, when I drove a 525e there was a marked difference. In my humble opinion it was nowhere near the car that the 528i was.
My 528i wasn't that bad on petrol considering its engine size, and certainly went well when giving it some beans.
I had a complete hoot with the 528. It had a dogleg box, lsd, sport interior and went like a train. Funny thing is that I saw the same car for sale in ebay last week, it went for £410. That is ridiculous value as it was immaculate, I was tempted to re-buy it!
Go for a 528i, or even a 535i for even more grunt.
The 525e really is a different ball game.
Hope it helps a bit.
Mike.

[sohlman]

If you can afford it buy the M5 there were only 187 imported into the uk market and it's the rarest and one of the best M cars. These cost between 6-10k. If this is over the price range then buy a m535. This has all the toys, LSD, bodykit, sports seats, leather etc and find one with the manual box. The 535 shares many parts with newer 5 series cars, 6 series as well as other engine variations of the E28 and so parts will be most readily available. Prices range from 1000-4000. From 528 - M5 all cars need to be watched in the wet as very arsy. All prone to tin worm so look for a cherished car that has been coseted by there owner. Performance figures as a guide 525e (2.7 low compression engine) 0-60 12.2, max speed 114, power 129bhp. 528i 0-60 8.4 max speed 134 power 184bhp. 535i/m535 0-60 7.2/7.0 max speed 143 power 218bhp. M5 0-60 6.5 max speed 152 power 286bhp. Look at the bmwccgb.org web site for the best cars.Hope this helps.

[detomaso]

I would love an M5, but I just don't have the beans, I'm looking for quick BMW motoring on the cheap. I got smitten with the e28 when i had a lift in my friends mums(!) M5 in malachite green with black leather, one of only 2 in the UK, I just love the shape, the shark nose and how they are so discreet. I really want a comfortable big car that's also fun and a bit old school, old money.
I reckon the 528 is the one for me, thanks for your input guys, if anybody ese has got any experiences don't hesitate to post

[silverback mike]

Good choice, my 528i was a hoot.