1985 735i se

just recently picked up one for 96,500 miles and was wondering what potential problems, historically these beasts can develop.

aside from a faulty wiring issue which was resolved shortly after i picked it up, it's running quite nice.

Here is an e24 site with lots of information.

http://normgrills.net/bcg/

Later,

thanks. i think though that the e24 was the newer style whereas i have the e23 -- i'm pretty sure anyways.

The e23 has got some pretty common problems. The most common amonst them are vacuum and electrical issues with the HVAC system. Next would be problems with the instrument cluster and after that problems with clogged drains that casue the interior of the car to get wet. Here is a link for checking out and e28 (5-series) that will also for the most part be a great check for your e23. With the mileage your car has, you may be on the leading edge of some of these problems. Good luck with the car, they are great fun and kind of a secret right now as most folks are more interested in the e24 (6-series) and e28 (5-series) body styles.

http://bimmer.roadfly.org/e23/messages/archive/msgsy2002w11/25654.html

Another resource for you is the e23 forum at roadfly.org.