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My mates dad had a E39 528i in that nice dark green. Had it since new and did over 400,000 kilometres in it. He sold it last year after 3 years in a row of many $thousand services. Suspension parts, cooling system. Random electronic failures, window regulators etc. Funny thing is, doesn't turn me off at all. They still have huge appeal. My mates dad still misses the car but still has his 80 series LandCruiser to roll around. That's on 600,000 kays
TRA-
Had an E34, that went between a few friends. It had the manual 5 series 6 pot 2.5 pre vanos engine. Had the usual BMW overheating problems that were cured by a new radiator, water pump and thermos stat and viscous fan. All those bits, as each was replaced in turn but the problem went away with everything replaced.
But only ever serviced when I owned it. By service, I mean oil, oil filter and air filter. While the spark plugs were replaced once. Always started and so controllable to drift.
That car went through suspension rubber bits at every MOT. Not replaced by me but paid a garage to do the work. The quality of the replacement parts was questionable as some were replaced year on year.
Finally killed by having someone run in to the side and was an insurance write off as the a and b pillars were damaged as well as wheels and suspension. The engine and box went off in to a series race car that had some 'fame' while the interior and diff lived on in other cars.
lynx
I’ve spent this morning appreciating the aesthetics, the engineering etc too. 3000 miles in this now. I can’t really imagine how any car can be more comfortable and fit for purpose whilst being so engaging to drive.