Buying advice needed - 1991 BMW vs. 1991 Mercedes vs. 1990 BMW

[SineMacula]

Hi,

I'm looking to buy a new (to me) used car... I have my eye on three currently, and would welcome advice/opinions. The three (in no particular order) are:

1. 1990 BMW 325i 5spd - 180000 miles - $2750 - new timing belt and clutch about 2.5 yrs ago, new brakes about 1 yr ago

2. 1991 BMW 525i 5spd - 192000 miles - $3000 - new timing belt, water pump, ignition components (plugs, wires, rotor, cap), vacuum hoses, valve clearance adjustment, all in the last few months

3. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.6L 6cyl. Auto - 110000 miles - $3000 - new water pump and fan belt about 2 months ago, new brakes and tires about 6 months ago

I now these are quite different vehicles, but I would be interested in anyone's opinions about them... how much life can one expect from each, assuming reasonably good care? What about differences in handling? Differences in cost of ownership?

I'm going to try to see and test drive each car this weekend... so any advice on what to look for, and what to keep in mind, would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Scott

[YogsVR4]

I think all of them can have a lot of life left in them. In general though, when it comes to cars over ten years old, I think its better to go with the lower miles.

I'm sure the 5 series BMW will be more to insure then the others. Replacement parts are going to be a wash.

Its always a good idea to have a mechanic give a car the once over before making a purchase. While you're taking it for a test drive, make sure the car shifts easily, that there are no unusual sounds coming from the car under acceleration or braking and take a look at where the car has been parked to see if it looks like any leaks are occuring.

[crayzayjay]

Hey, have you chosen yet?

If not, I'd go for the Merc. A lot less miles than the other two and capable of doing a lot more. It won't handle as well as either of the other two, but it would be my choice.
Let us know

[SineMacula]

I ended up buying the 1991 190E... and so far, I'm loving it!

Of course, as seems to always be the case, the moment I handed over the $$ I started seeing things I hadn't seen earlier... so it does have some cosmetic work needed, which hopefully I'll be able to afford over the next year. But other than that, it's great!

[crayzayjay]

Glad you're happy with your choice

[crayzayjay]

Almost forgot, why not check out the Mercedes forum while you're here! It could prove a useful source of information