E34 525i vs. W124 300E

[csieminski]

I am curious if anyone has some input for a decision I am facing.

I a college student and currently drive a 1986 BMW 528eA that is in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition despite extremely high mileage. Recently I had the opportunity to drive a 1989 BMW 535iA and was very impressed with its power, interior size and solid construction relative to my car. As a result, I am contemplating the purchase of an earlier model year E34 525i.

However, I'm also considering a late '80's W124 Mercedes 300E 3.0. As I mentioned, I would really like a car with more solidity and power, but want to retain the great handling ability of my current car (w/16" wheels). I'd also like a car which is reasonably reliable (the 528e has been quite expensive to maintain--$2K+ in the 15 months I've owned it).

Could anyone who has significant experience with either an E34 (esp. 525i) or W124 (esp. 300E) write back and give me some insight as to the strengths and weaknesses of these models? I'd really appreciate hearing from you.

Thanks in advance,

Craig

[crayzayjay]

We used to have an E34 520i in the family and it was reliable as hell, it had maybe one minor glitch in 6 years or so, which didnt set us back a fortune to fix. My uncle had a 525 and it was exactly the same story. If the car has been treated well, it will not fail you.
As for the merc, another relative of mine had one and it was also extremely reliable, though handling had absolutely nothing on the BMW. Go for the Bee Em
Hope this has been of some use

cheers,
jay

[csieminski]

Thanks for the info. I'll let you know which car I ended up with when I get it.

Craig

[crayzayjay]

no problem. good luck