1994 BMW 5 Series 525it Touring review from North America
"Timeless Design, Reliable BMW"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Had to replace:
Battery ($120)
Brakes ($600)
Valve cover gasket ($250)
Inspection II ($600)
Other misc. preventive maintenance along the way.
General comments?
Bought this 525 Touring wagon used in 2005 for $6000. Transmission was replaced prior to my ownership at 112K miles and came with 3 yr warranty. E34 wagons are a bit rare and only built from 1992-1995 but can be found. So far this wagon has been the best vehicle I have ever owned. The E34 Vanos engine is so smooth. Timeless design, looks and handles like a much newer car. I am a musician and this wagon hauls quite a bit of gear thanks to the fold flat rear seats. Stereo is only so-so and being a 1994 car there are no cupholders, although lots of 3rd party options here. The V6 is a little sluggish off the line but it's a smooth powerband with plenty of passing power. AC blows nice and cold. Seats are so comfortable, especially on long trips. E34 BMWs reliability record is well documented. If you do the preventive maintenance and budget $1000-$1500 a year this car will keep going and going.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1994 |
| Year of manufacture | 1994 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5L V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 115000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 145000 miles |
| Previous car | Nissan Altima |
| Date of Entry | 20th August, 2008 |