E38 728i running problems

My car is a one owner '96 E38 728i with the m52 engine and the milage is 165000 with full BMW service history.

The problems started with minor 'hunting' when the car was cruising or at a constant speed, but fine while accelerating or under load. This became a little worse with time and when the car would come to a stand-still, the engine would struggle to keep running, usually worse when cold. This has become even worse, to the point where the car is now undriveable at any point as it won't keep it's revs, even under load.

Starting the car, keeping the throttle open to keep it running (if you can call it that) you can hear a 'sucking air' type noise (Psssssssshhhhhhhhhh) that happens then drops, happens then drops, etc. from around the inlet manifold area. I've tried looking for split pipes, but found none on my 'lay-mans' inspection.

Has anyone had a similar problem or could suggest a fault with this? I'm so dissapointed as I've only just bought the car... it's now lost it's sparkle.

Any info or help would be much appreciated.

Giles

Someone has told me it might be the MAF sensor. If I disconnect this sensor and the problem doesn't change, then I'm guessing that this is the culprit and it would need replacing...? Knocking on £300 for a newie! Ouch!

Good news... (well, sort of)

It's had a diagnostic check and it's brought up a faulty camshaft sensor. Good news is it's not a major headache to replace, but the part costs £58.30 + VAT, only available from the dealers. I suppose that's better than having to replace the MAF sensor though.

So, I'm a little bit happier now.