All advice needed! Want: BMW 1995-96 740i (iL)

[Carson777]

hey

I'm in love with the 1995-1996 BMW 740i's and 740iL's... the most affordable for the newer looking design.

I would really appreciate any comments or advice you have for me on buying my first car.

I want to know a few things...

Are there engine problems? How many miles do you think should be the limit put on the car I buy? I'm thinking nothing over 90k, especially 100k.

Where did you go to buy, or where would be a good place to buy an affordable 740?

The main thing to keep in mind is that I don't want/cant spend more than $20,000, and spending around $16,000 is pushing it... but will hopefully be able to. If I could get a good running one at $14,000 that would be great.

What's the best method to pay it off? For a $15,000 car at about %5.9 for three years I would be paying about $350 monthly.

What should I do to make sure it's a problem free car, at a good price?


I have been driving for around a year, I'm almost 17. I have driven my dads expedition everyday, so this monster bmw will be just right for me


I will be using this car throughout the rest of high school and through college. Plenty of upgrades will be coming..






Please let me hear your knowledge!






MUCH APPRECIATED!

[dNA3D]

These BMWs are great. They ain't as reliable as a Lexus, but nevertheless, still extremely reliable. The most important thing when buying a second hand car is to check the service record. Make sure it's filled with ticks, and make sure Inspections have been made at least every 20,000km.

[jayb79]

Try to find a 96, the 95s and the nikasil problem so watch out for cheap 95s. If the engine was changed under warranty then a 95 would be ok. If you find a 95 for a good price take it to the dealer for a leakdown test. See Roadfly.com for a more active 7series (e38) discusion. I have a 95 with the original engine and no problems and i got it for 17k, so they can be found just be carefull.