All right, here is the deal. I have been looking around for a nice E34 for a while and really can't find the right one. I am looking for a standard because I have heard the autos have a bunch of problems. There really aren't too many E34's around here let alone a 5-spd. So what I am looking for now is an E32 because they are starting to grow on me. My questions are...is the auto tranny in the 740's the same as it is in E34's? What are some common problems with BMW V8's?, because I am hesitant to get one. Not saying I don't like them, I just know the maintenance is pretty expensive and they require more attention. Also, on average, how much per month or year do 740's cost with maintenance? That being said, I found a 1994 740i with 179K on it. Other than the high mileage, it looks really nice. Is this a good deal and what should I look for? Thanks guys, I appreciate it.

Yeah, the auto tranny would be the same, and as for problems with the v8s, the only one you've really got to worry about in that car (that I know of) would be nikasil. The nikasil clyinder linings led to premature wear due to the low quality of american gas. Something else to look at if it's a iL is the self leveling system...if atf was used in it the seals are going to leak and to replace the whole system you'd ave to pay more than the car is actually worth...normal suspension can be applied though if the self leveling goes out.

So all E32 V8's had Nikasil blocks? And what are the names of the Auto and Manual tranny's in BMW's?

So all E32 V8's had Nikasil blocks? And what are the names of the Auto and Manual tranny's in BMW's?
yeah, I'm pretty sure they did...and I don't know the names..