1984 BMW 5 Series 528i 2.8L Six from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

Exceeded my expectations, will be with me for a long time

Faults:

Only issues;

Tailshaft center support bearing "clunking" due to being loose; easy to fix.

Bonnet gas struts shot.

General Comments:

Bought this as a daily driver to keep my heavily modified Volvo 740 Turbo safely out of traffic.

The BMW's seats aren't quite as comfy as the 740s, but they're not that bad at all. Much better than an equivalent Australian car's seats.

Having said that, everything else about the car is perfect; starts instantly, is smooth as silk even when cold, has plenty of torque for loping around town & in traffic, the interior is absolutely gorgeous - I couldn't be happier with my choice.

What really surprised my is the amount of power in the engine once the revs pass the 3500rpm mark. Definitely exceeded my expectations - doesn't use as much fuel as expected either, so I'm happy.

Love the simple engineering, it's just like working on a 1980s Volvo but with a little less space in the engine bay.

Overall, great stuff; but I don't think I'd recommend one to a person who doesn't take care of machinery properly. A perfect car for anyone who loves old European cars and wants a nice slusher to cruise around in, and is ready & able to do by-the-book maintenance.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 6th August, 2008

1984 BMW 5 Series 528e 2.7 liter from North America

Summary:

A fun reliable car with power to spare

Faults:

Changed the carrier bearing recently because of a burnout gone wrong.

Driver seat worn and rips holes in my pants.

General Comments:

This BMW is the first car I bought with my own money, and I will never regret it.

I drive it like I stole it, and sometimes I think I try to break something on it, but can't seem to do it.

The sunroof still works, and so do all the power windows.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 17th July, 2008

1984 BMW 5 Series 533i Straight 6 from North America

Summary:

Very well engineered, solid, fantastic car

Faults:

Fuel Pumps - did you know that there are two of them.

Air Conditioner - I am having it looked at next weekend.

Wiring - The previous owner had a stereo and alarm in the car. I am now trying to un-fix what he has done.

Back Windows - they seem to both be off track.

Auto lock & Unlock - This is a great feature, just the drivers door is not being cooperative.

Drivers seat - Previous owner must have been rather heavy, the drivers seat is broken down spring wise.

General Comments:

My Grandfather won this car in a raffle drawing. He gave it to my dad. My Father loved it, but the fuel pumps went out and he did not have the money to fix them. When he passed away in Sept. 07, I really did not want to spend the $1000. to fix.

However, after fixing it, WOW, I love it. Has lots of pep, handles great and feels rock solid. Seems so far I have made a very good investment. I have started driving in more than my new Tahoe. Going to have the front seats all redone and cushy, but other than that no complaints.

I would recommend anyone to a vintage car like this. I would choose this car over a payment for a newer one at any time.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 26th May, 2008

13th Sep 2009, 19:07

Thanks for the Pep-talk!

I acquired my '84 533i last month! (for $100)

I already have a '64 Corvair, but the 533 is a "Classic" Dream Machine!

I can't decide where to spend cash first!

Upgrade the wheels from TRX to 15"?

Or get into the Engine? (there are some probable valve issues).

Thanks for the "heads-up" on fuel pumps, Alternators seem needy also.

Mike.

1984 BMW 5 Series 533i 3.2L V6 from North America

Summary:

The ultimate driving machine

Faults:

So far very little. Had to replace fuel sending unit, and just recently, had a major tune-up and valve adjust.

Need to replace radiator soon because of leaking.

Otherwise, an excellent car, and purchase.

General Comments:

Sneaky fast, and handles like a sports car for a four door sedan.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 3rd March, 2008