1990 BMW 5 Series 535i review from North America

Replaced alternator.

Replaced front and back emblems.

A/C needs recharging.

Driver's seat is worn.

Windshield sprayers need replacing.

Needs new water pump.

Cruise control linkage is broken.

Car vibrates slightly @ around 63MPH, but stops around 70MPH.

I LOVE THIS CAR!! For being 17 years old, it was a steal! Of course it has a few dings and needs a little work, but nothing major. I purchased it last year for $3500 dollars and was lucky enough to get the 5-speed manual transmission. (I found out later that only 5% of E34s are manuals.) When you get it in fifth, it just keeps on accelerating! Great on long trips, you'll hit 85mph and not even know it. The gas mileage is not too bad. (17mpg around town, 24-26mpg freeway) Shifting to first gear is a bit clunky and difficult sometimes, but you get used to it. The suspension is excellent, it's difficult to lose traction. Parts are a bit pricey but not hard to find. It's fairly easy to work on. (Me, my boyfriend and my best friend do everything, no problem.) Mine still has the stock stereo, it's not so good with handling bass though. I LOVE the 10-way adjustable seats, power windows/mirrors/sunroof, among the other controls that tell you how much fuel is available, your average speed, the temperature outside, current mpg, and screw the little check engine light...it has a little strip underneath the gages that tells you exactly what is wrong with the car. The windows are nicely tinted. I think I'll be a fan forever! I can honestly say that I much prefer this older 5-series to the new ones. I'll be a fan forever! (My next car will be a 3-series convertible.)