Robstar
to add to Ians good advice have a look at http://www.autotrader.co.uk">www.autotrader.co.uk and see what options are available on UK Models for sale. Mine is 1995 and it didn't have cruise, it was an option then. I've approached BMW about having it retro fitted and drawn a blank. Better to wait and get what you want.
For the sort of money you are talking about you may still find one with BMW used car warranty. Mine has 115K on the clock and BM are still offering the warranty. I believe they will upto 165K (rumour has it) for 7's and 8's. I think its worth it and you'll get some piece of mind. Wouldn't touch anything without a full BM service history. Its a complex car.
I doubt that running costs are much more different than the 740 or 540. Servicing will be very similar I can imagine. I've had 27 MPG max on a run which isn't bad at all. Down the shops pretty grim 14-18mpg
This site should help you with what to look for before buying. http://membres.lycos.fr/technice31/prepurchase.php">http://membres.lycos.fr/technice31/prepurchase.php
As Ian pointed out you need to be aware of the Nikasil engine block issue. The bottom line is that high sulphur fuels sold in the past caused catastrophic failures in Nikasil block engines (Not just the M60). BMW were changing them out under warranty although its doubtful they would do that for an older car now.
Have a look at these sites.
http://www.lestac.co.uk/bmw/nikasil.htm#what_causes">http://www.lestac.co.uk/bmw/nikasil.htm#what_causes
http://www.koalamotorsport.com/">http://www.koalamotorsport.com/
Don't let it put you off buying one. Its a fantastic car. Look at http://www.e31.net">www.e31.net. Load up the 0-125 mph acceleration video, turn your speakers up......
Good luck
Phil
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1995 840Ci
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