Buying a 1997 528i Sport/Premium

[maddon]

Getting a great deal on a 1997 528i Sport/Premium with only 36K miles on it. First timer with BMWs. Anyone out there with advice (positive or negative) on this car? Reliable? Expensive to maintain? Anything would help.

[ctoro]

I'd say go ahead and get it. I just got a '99 also with the Sport Package and I only regret not getting the Premium Package. The car runs great and it's surprinsingly powerful for a 2.8 with the 5SPD. (se my prevous post). I was so happy with my purchase that I told the wife this is the last car I'll own (we'll see), but as far as maintenance is concern, I had a '95 318i purchased bran new and stayed cleared off Dealerships since they are so expensive, owned it for 3 years and never needed anything more thang oil changes and wiper blades. The Fiver won't visit the dealer either, there are too many shops out there that will do quality work for half the price. (Oil changes and brakes are done in my garage).

[maddon]

Thanks for the info. The one I am thinking of purchasing is a 1997 Sport/Premium 5sp 36K miles; there is another one that caught my eye and thats a 1998 Sport/Premium Auto with 65K miles. Anyone out there have an opinion on manual 5sp vs Auto on the 528's? I know its a no brainer with the 540's.

[Wgosma]

I am shopping for a used 528i also; driven both 5 spd and auto trans cars.....the 5 spd is my choice as it really improves performance by enalbling you to get the most out of the 6 cyl engine. I'd only go w/auto trans if were going to do A LOT of stop-go driving in traffic.

[RanGer498]

i have the auto its a nice car but for more fun and all get the 5sped im sure it will be more fun the auto just glides along !