Quote:
Originally Posted by jyl
I've always admired E28s, both the M and the regular flavour. Questions for you who know them -
- are they pretty wrenchable, parts available, well made, fundamentally non-self destructing - sort of like a 911?
- what sort of performance from the different levels of E28 5 series, I don't mean specifically 0-60, but turning, stopping, ride, etc
- what sort of go-fast options if you live in a state that merely sniffs the tailpipe?
- would you get a 528/535 and apply the go-fast, or a M?
|
I've had a couple of E28s, including an 88 535is. They are very well made and generally nondestructing.
Skip the 528e. 120 hp just doesn't cut it, and the 535 isn't much more $$ these days.
Even the 535 isn't fast. Mine was a 5 speed with a Conforti chip, which supposedly gives 25 or so more hp. It isn't a rocketship by any means.
It uses Motronic injection like a Carrera, and the "go fast" options are similar. i.e., not much. A chip is really about it (and IMO not worth much).
Here's the biggest issue with any E28. They are now old. And while they don't completely destruct, they do wear more than a 911, IMO. Particularly the suspension. There's a lot more bushings etc on an E28 than a 911, and they wear more. The steering system, too.
Almost every E28 on the road is very "loose" now. Worn suspension bushings, driveshaft components, steering system components (idler arms, etc), control arms, rear console bushings, shocks, brake rotors, etc. These worn parts SERIOUSLY degrade from the goodness of the car. General vagueness, shimmies, loose feeling, etc.
To put one really "right" would cost a good % of the market value.
I put a lot of miles in E28, and really loved the cars, though. I sold my last one because, while it still looked great and drove nicely, it needed a full suspension going through to really be put right, and I just couldn't justify the cost.