High mileage???

[jw513]

Hi,

Im looking to buy a used standard BMW (thought about a Jetta first, but heard too many problems about it). Ive seen a couple '95 and '96 BMW 320i's... for around 7k - 8k CDN (5k - 6k USD). My main concern is the mileage. The mileage on these cars were somwhere around 180 000 km to 200 000 km (I think thats about 120 000 - 130 000 miles). Im looking for a car that will be worth it in the long run. I dont want a car that I need to take to the repair shop all the time. So, do you guys think a 95 BMW with 200k km is too much? Or should I just look for other cars with less mileage? ... Thanks alot.

[hoodmeister]

having purchased many used cars, and sold as many, my response would be to look at each car individually. does the high mileage car look like the owner is meticulous? is there a complete set of documents to go with the car? frequent service intervals? lots of dealer work? highway miles? if not, does the car show signs of age that could reflect poor maintenance? signs of major body work? it's usually easy to spot a car that's been abused. sure, a low mileage car is better, but if the car has been well maintained, i'd say go for it. one caution: dealers and used car lots are terrific at detailing cars to make them look good!

good luck in your search

[zzpza]

my '89 318i has 200,000 miles on the clock (333,000kms) and is still going strong. it's got a couple of little faults, but nothing that couldn't be solved with a DIY service, it's just finding the time and the effort...

as said by hoodmeister, don't worry too much about the mileage, look at the general condition of the car.

j.

[beemer5]

I sold a 89' 325i 5sp with 369,000 mi could still smoke the wheels