e28 5 series - a classic?
Printed From: Bavarian-Board.co.uk - BMW Owners Discussion Forum
Category: Technical & Model Specific Forums
Forum Name: BMW 5 Series
Forum Discription: This forum will deal with any issues on the BMW 5 Series (E12, E28, E34, E39, E60 & E61)
URL: http://www.bavarian-board.co.uk/forum_posts.asp?TID=26948
Printed Date: 29-April-2024 at 04:35
Topic: e28 5 series - a classic?
Posted By: Starrchild
Subject: e28 5 series - a classic?
Date Posted: 07-February-2006 at 14:02
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I just sold my e39. I'm after a short term replacement .... something with a little more 'cool'. I've been looking at a e28 lux. does anyone have any buying advise? what should i look out for? how much should I be paying for a car cirra 1985? any help would be great.  Thanks ------------- 520i E28 1986 528iSE E39 1996 |
Replies:
Posted By: 540 V8
Date Posted: 07-February-2006 at 14:17
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I had an e28 525e '84 model. Real chrome bumpers an all! A very basic car but also very simple. No electrics, but less to go wrong. She was mint and I loved her and now I'm gutted I ever got rid. She'd have made a good runabout to work and was always a pleasure to drive. I can't really tell you what to look out for because in the two years I had mine, I only put a water pump on which cost me about £35 from beemers! Mine did have a cambelt though so look out for that, best replacing it anyway just to be sure. Good luck with your pending purchase! Regards Mike ------------- 
Current:E34 540i Touring 6 speed manual(Mpower bodykit & suspension)& Chrysler Voyager 3.3 V6 auto Previous:E34 530iSE AC Schnitzer suspension. E28 525e auto-Standard |
Posted By: whitey
Date Posted: 07-February-2006 at 15:29
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IMO it's absolutely 100% a classic with classic BMW shark nosed looks. Yes the 528 Lux is a nice car but also keep an eye out for the M535i as these are fantastic cars. Not exactly a true e28 M5 but the forerunner, a lot cheaper, the first M badged road car AND very worthy of the badge. I used to look after a very rare Agate green 85 'B' plate one and it was a brilliant car. Often mistaken for an M5, the body kit was more aggresive on the M535i and it came with the unburstable M30 3.5 which (if my memory serves me right, correct me if I'm wrong) approx. 220bhp. Not being the M5 lump, servicing is a piece of p*** and a fraction on the cost. Pay as much as you are willing to pay for a good one. What may seem OTT to others will pay dividends in the end. They are bullit proof (unlike the e39 so I'm certian your going in the right direction) but one thing that is for sure, pay heed to Mikes advice on the cambelt and while they are in there, get them to replace the front cam oil seal which is a weak point. Keep an eye on eBay as a few really nice ones have gone through here and also see the 80's Emporium at http://www.the80semporium.co.uk/forsale/ - http://www.the80semporium.co.uk/forsale/ as he's had a couple of peaches go through as well. Good luck.
------------- 2000 e39 523i with full factory sport kit. 1989 e30 325i Convertible 1999 Golf GTI 1.8T |
Posted By: Doive
Date Posted: 07-February-2006 at 15:56
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I ve had a couple of e28s, both 525e Lux models, and have to say they
really are superb cars. My latest car has over 192k on the clock, but
still drives like new and is as tight as a drum. They just keep going!
Looking underneath shows no sign of any of those miles. As has already been said, watch for the cambelt on the M20 (520i and 525e) engine, water pumps can give up occasionally. Being quite a heavy car, they tend to be hard on the suspension bushes (as are e34 and e39s I believe), but they tend to be most fond of the rear axle beam bushes, so have a look at those. Any clonking from the rear under acceleration will likely be a set that aren't there any more. Take a good look at the floorpan in front of the raer axle mounting points and the back of the sills, I've seen cars like butter here. Any e28 by now is liable to have either rust lurking in the bumper fillets, or stonking great holes in the bumpers (mine has both). It's an easy enough fix, with new sections available for not too much cash. Metal sunroofs may well be showing bubbles on the surface as well. If you find a car with a moon roof (glass sunroof), it's more desirable than the metal alternative. Avoid any rim with the size r390 - metric tyres are stupidly expensive, and handle as if the road were resurfaced with Cookeen. Personally I'm very taken with the eta models, the last of the line Lux versions are well equipped and comfortable long distance cruisers, while still managing 40mpg on a run. The smaller engined cars tend to be a little underpowered for the size, with the 518i being rather slow. Best all round would probably be the 525i, with the 528i and 535i being more powerful but very fond of the go-juice. The M535i is fast, but just not my cup of tea. [anorak on] The e28 M535i wasn't the first BMW saloon to display the M badge, that was the e12 M535i of 1980 odd. Although I suppose to be exact the first car to display it was the M1 supercar. Anyway. [anorak off] ------------- 1987 BMW 525e Lux Auto (sadly deceased) http://www.getfirefox.com - Get Firefox - Ditch Hopeless Inertnet Exploder http://www.doive.co.uk - www.doive.co.uk 
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Posted By: whitey
Date Posted: 07-February-2006 at 17:15
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Anorak or no anorak your absolutely right, the e12 was the first M badged production car readily available to the buying public. The M1 was the first M car but was not really readily available. However, as you say a lot of e28's are getting a little rusty now.......but nowhere near as bad as the e12's. Can't remember the last time I saw any e12 let alone an M535 one. on the note of e28 M535's, I spotted one the other day, tucked away. I was down at my local breakers (scouring for e30 parts) and sitting in the "awaiting clearance" yard is a diamond (?) Black M535i. From what I can see it's very original , still on it's bespoke metrics, and fairly straight. Not sure if manual or auto (a lot were autos) but I might pop down and enquire as I got really attached to the green one I used to look after and now the e30's virtually finished, I could do with another project! ------------- 2000 e39 523i with full factory sport kit. 1989 e30 325i Convertible 1999 Golf GTI 1.8T |
Doive wrote:Posted By: Doive
Date Posted: 07-February-2006 at 18:00
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Go for it whitey, even if it does turn out to be a heap you can always scrap it again! My last 525e was a scrapyard find, 150 quid for a 73k car, full history until 2003, totally spotless in every way. Only scrapped because they believed the head gasket had gone, which it hadn't. Bargain! There is a very nice e12 on ebay at the minute, if I had a bit of space I'd be tempted, not sure why but I quite like these. There was a VERY rusty M535 e12 on a few months ago, but it really was a basket case as most e12s seem to be now. I probably like them because a friend of the family had a really nice X reg 528 in metallic gold, it was the first automatic car I'd ever seen and it fascinated me! We were looking for one up here in the scottish section a few months back to do a feature for the 5 series register, sort of a first to latest photo shoot, but had to give up when we couldn't find one anywhere. Shame really. There used to be a lime green T reg 520 in Edinburgh a couple of years ago, but it must have got scrapped. ------------- 1987 BMW 525e Lux Auto (sadly deceased) http://www.getfirefox.com - Get Firefox - Ditch Hopeless Inertnet Exploder http://www.doive.co.uk - www.doive.co.uk
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Posted By: Starrchild
Date Posted: 08-February-2006 at 05:02
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wow.!!
Thanks for the response everyone. Judging by the glowing words of praise for the E28, I must be on to winner. I'll take your advise and put it to good use. BTW, my e39 was a great car to drive and it still looks the bizzo, but it did have a few gremlins...such as the electrics and the power drain on the whole system when left idle for a while. Apart from that I highly rate them. Long live the E39. Oh, thanks for the link to the 80's car emporium. that guy should be praised for his fine efforts in keeping some of the best cars ever made alive. Cheers. ------------- 520i E28 1986 528iSE E39 1996 |
Posted By: eta.
Date Posted: 08-February-2006 at 05:39
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The 518i should not be discounted. OK it will not set the world on fire, but has the cheapest to maintain, most reliable engine (M10) of the lot.
The 520i is a slug especially in auto form.Heavy on juice too. At this age sh and body condition are very important. The 525e is just fantastic. 2K rpm = 70 mph. A late LUX one will not disappoint. Only available (in the UK) in auto form. High compression engine, so fuel Ron is more critical. The 525i (not e)/528/535 have the 'big six' M30 engine which can do starship mileages if well maintained, especially the cooling system. Last but by no means least is the M5 which was BMW's first true 'Q' car. Very highly spec'd in the UK but only available as a manual, still reckoned to be the best 'M' road car for driving feedback. When in production was the worlds fastest 4 door saloon. |
Posted By: Drew540i
Date Posted: 08-February-2006 at 18:17
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I saw a 1974 525 on Tuesday morning coming out of
Derby on the A38. Verona red and looking very tired, but still going! Also saw a lime green (disgusting Snot green) T plated E12 in Edinburgh last year (Hogmanay 2004 going into 2005). Looked like a 520. |
Posted By: Doive
Date Posted: 08-February-2006 at 19:38
Where did you see it? There can't be too many T plated mushy pea green e12s in Edinburgh! Was it running at the time? It used to live down the road from my mate in Colinton mains, looked decidedly rough then, and all of a sudden it disappeared. I assumed it was scrapped, but perhaps it survived? I'd love to come across it again, it was a couple of years ago I saw it and didn't really appreciate then what it was. ------------- 1987 BMW 525e Lux Auto (sadly deceased) http://www.getfirefox.com - Get Firefox - Ditch Hopeless Inertnet Exploder http://www.doive.co.uk - www.doive.co.uk
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Posted By: wattsmonkey
Date Posted: 01-May-2006 at 17:08
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Hello! I am now on my third E28: the first was a 528i in straight black (i.e. non-metallic, and the best possible colour for one of these cars in my humble opinion. The second was a ropey 518i mot failure with perfect wings and doors (intended to replace dodgy doors on the six-cylinder), then the third came up for sale: an 85 B plate M535i in Agate Green Metallic. All of them have confirmed the fundamental quality and integrity of the car: the 518i hadn't been started for a month, but with only a charged battery it started first time. The other big point is that all of them have been very, very cool in a nicely unassuming way: you aren't making a big "Look at me" statement in one of these! From my own experience, the 528i makes sense in terms of lower purchase price, but mine was MUCH thirstier than the M535i, although it was much more relaxing to drive (the bigger car makes the best noise). I hated the body kit at first, but it has really grown on me. Just be sure not to buy a rust bucket! Rob |
Posted By: PaulS
Date Posted: 01-May-2006 at 17:14
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I saw an e12 for only the second time (was a rather nice M535i) at our last meet and looked lovely
http://www.bmwcarclubforum.co.uk/javascript%20;" target=_blank onclick="MM_openBrWindow'displayimage.php?pid=1606&fullsize=1','1408660405444d05b7bbff2','scrollbars=yes,toolbar=yes,status=yes,resizable=yes,width=1296,height=976'"> Paul -------------  95 E34 530i V8 Auto Maldives Blue |
Posted By: nick_e28
Date Posted: 02-May-2006 at 18:29
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joined the site today...getting happier by the minute. last week i bought a 1984 e28 528i SE....all the mods for a fair price can you put a price on a 22 year old 16500 mile car? upon purchas only 3 things are wrong...i have a slight leak from the exhaust, i dont really see this as a great problem. i also have seepage from a component from the power steering. im not sure what this entails or whether i should do something about it or not? i also have a tiny dent in the boot and it bugs me. does anyone know any good stockists for exhausts? i know itllbe expensive but f**k it! nick |
Posted By: PaulS
Date Posted: 03-May-2006 at 07:17
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Hi Nick, I sold my e28 528i mainly because I couldn't find an exhaust for love nor money. If you're prepared to pay for it I'd go to the stealers - £300+ but will last years. You may be lucky and drop onto one, but GSF and ECP stopped making exhausts for the e28 528 a year and a half ago. HTH Paul
------------- 95 E34 530i V8 Auto Maldives Blue |
Posted By: nick_e28
Date Posted: 03-May-2006 at 07:45
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Thanks Paul, ill probably try and get a quick fix for the moment and then try to replace when i win the lottery. Rob, my 528 doesnt appear to be all that thirsty at all, but then i have an astra to compare it to .
As for the e28's looks, they are modest but very stylish. With 528
written on the back, noone really doubts it at all. They may be old,
but command respect.------> How do I attach a photo to my signiture. And is the only way to add a photo by prividing a link? Regards, Nick -------------  1985 e28 528i SE - 16500 miles
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Posted By: PaulS
Date Posted: 03-May-2006 at 07:57
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Nick, If you have a picture uploaded onto the net, in your signature you need {img} then the link to your photo then {/IMG} ( use [] rather than {} - I used them to show you what you need to type in) eg.: {img} http://www.bmwmovies.net/albums/userpics/10011/sig_pic2.JPG - http://www.bmwmovies.net/albums/userpics/10011/sig_pic2.JPG {/img} Paul ------------- 95 E34 530i V8 Auto Maldives Blue |
Posted By: nick_e28
Date Posted: 03-May-2006 at 08:01
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Thanks Paul, very helpful, ill try and get a photo uploaded . Have you only lowered the front on your E34? Regards Nick ------------- 1985 e28 528i SE - 16500 miles
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Posted By: fozzymandeus
Date Posted: 03-May-2006 at 08:59
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I'm looking for a mid-sized 80s saloon at the moment myself, but can't seem to find any e28s kicking around within my budget. I do however keep seeing lots of W123 mercs... were they built better than e28s or did Mercedes just sell plenty of them back in the day? I might end up with one of those for a bit of wafting around in at low speed... I can't help thinking that my E36 'vert is a little too bling... Oh yeah and yes, I definitely think the E28 is a classic!! |
Posted By: nick_e28
Date Posted: 03-May-2006 at 09:17
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Well fozzymandeus, There are plenty of E28's out there, i found that many were hidden and you dont see many in the usual auto trader and exchange and marts. most have big miles, but as long as they are looked after then they should be okay. As for build quality, ill be biased and say that the BMW E28 is a notoriously well made car, especially the larger engines. i have a 1984 model and everything still works, even the air con (although i am too scared of using it) Dare i say that the W123's scream 80's a little more than the E28's? i think the BMW is a perfectly rounded car, and although not huge, is very roomy ad smooth. I dont know how the ride compares. if my memory serves me correct the post '78 280's are the most powerful and compare to the 528's. i think (although im not sure) the BMW is more efficient with power and speed although they both kick out the same BHP. All round, a very comparable car i think, if i didnt buy a BMW, then a W123 would be top on my list. Regards, Nick ------------- 1985 e28 528i SE - 16500 miles
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Posted By: fozzymandeus
Date Posted: 03-May-2006 at 09:36
Thanks Nick... I think I'll just get whichever one I find thats in the nicest condition, either would be fun to own.  And since I don't want to get rid of my BMW either way, I don't need this project to be sporty in the slightest, so a 518 or W123 200 would do I think... Gonna sit and have a think now... |
Posted By: PaulS
Date Posted: 04-May-2006 at 05:02
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Yes nick, when I fitted the M-Parallels and M5 bilstein inserts, the ride height was raised and cut out the outside tread of £250 worth of front tyres in 3 1/2 months. Was warned about it but didn't take advice as the last car I lowered, the lower spring cup rotted and gave way whilst travelling at 65mph which wasn't a pleasant experience. These were fine with the e34. My e28:- javascript ;" target=_blank onclick="MM_openBrWindow'displayimage.php?pid=690&fullsize=1','17207455794459c2dfa178a','scrollbars=yes,toolbar=yes,status=yes,resizable=yes,width=1296,height=976'"> was lowered by 35mm apex springs and Jamex sport shocks but probably went down more likely 50mm Yes they are a classic and I would have another one tomorrow, but that would upset the wife!! Paul ------------- 95 E34 530i V8 Auto Maldives Blue |
Posted By: DavesOldBMs
Date Posted: 04-May-2006 at 05:34
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There are still a few E12's around and I am restoring an E12 M535I at the moment - http://www.m535i.co.uk - www.m535i.co.uk . My first BMW was a 1984 525I and that got me hooked, very tatty but very reliable. After that I got a nother one in good condition and can definately say they are a very good car. Both mine were manuals and drove very well. I also had a e28 M535I with a dogleg box for a while and that was fun to drive. I have now moved onto the older BMWs IE the E9, E3 and E12 but they are hard to find in good nick.
Cheers Dave |
Posted By: nick_e28
Date Posted: 04-May-2006 at 15:47
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cheers paul well it sounds like more fun, but alas im only 21 and i cant really justify any major money on luxuries like that. your M5, i think, is a complete different breed to the 528. dechroming, sports bits etc... but both hold a very mean stance. i know not to f**k with any M-car, especially the 535! meanwhile find enclosed a piccy or two of my beauty   regards, nick ------------- 1985 e28 528i SE - 16500 miles
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Posted By: PaulS
Date Posted: 05-May-2006 at 05:16
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Now that is a lovely motor!! I want another one!!! Paul ------------- 95 E34 530i V8 Auto Maldives Blue |
Posted By: Doive
Date Posted: 05-May-2006 at 08:36
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Nick - absolutely lovely car. Truly stunning. I'm wishing now I had replaced my e28 after the accident, for me there is really no better looking comparable car of it's time, or really since. A W123 merc would be ok for daily wafting, but I've been told they are murderous on petrol, even when compared to an e28. So yes, the e28 is a definite classic - and at least I know the crash resistance is second to none!  ------------- 1987 BMW 525e Lux Auto (sadly deceased) http://www.getfirefox.com - Get Firefox - Ditch Hopeless Inertnet Exploder http://www.doive.co.uk - www.doive.co.uk
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Posted By: Drew540i
Date Posted: 05-May-2006 at 19:06
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It's funny you mention E34 Bilsteins because I've just
bought a job lot of brand new Hartge Bilstein E34 front shocks. Christ Doive, that was a rear ender and a half!! That must now be the second one you've 'lost'..?? I just bought a 525e today off Ebay for £64. 
, a 1988 E plate Dolphin grey Lux with the dechromed bits. It's a lovely old thing but it needs a bonnet and a pair of wings so it's going to be pillaged for bits - I only want the engine from it. E28's are now a classic and this is borne out by the number of enquiries I got for bits on the last 525e I had. I don't do it for a living (thank God) but you soon get £64 back........... |
Posted By: nick_e28
Date Posted: 06-May-2006 at 06:31
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Thanks Paul and Doive, At that stage when the photo was taken, i hadnt bought it....Not long after first seeing it i gave up and emptied the wallet out. this photo is right after i purchased it . Im a photographer so expect some more photos soon! unless youd rather i didnt? Regards Nick ------------- 1985 e28 528i SE - 16500 miles
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Posted By: PaulS
Date Posted: 06-May-2006 at 14:09
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My old e28 was only a 528i - if it was an M5 I wouldn't have parted with it for love nor money!! I would have put a stainless steel exhaust on it. Obviously I didn't do too badly for a replica!! More photos would be fine, may get me pining again!! Paul ------------- 95 E34 530i V8 Auto Maldives Blue |