I´m not sure if there´s a specific thread about my question. If so, sorry...
Well, I found a 850ci with 35,000 Kms in México in good condition, but I wish to know if buying an old car like this can take me into problems, the bad point of this car is that the actual owner removed the original stereo and installed a pioneer new stereo, I will apreciate your comments.

Thanks

it is also a very complex car. It has a lot of electronics and electrical components, and is also somewhat complex mechanically (the engine, a/c and heating, headlights, starter replacement., etc). Some maintainance items are expensive (plug wires ~$200.00-$400.00/ set, manifold gaskets ~$300.00-$400.00/set, etc.)

Be prepered, sooner or later you will either end up working on it yourself, or paying A LOT to have a shop work on it for you. Make sure you find the BEST shop possible, and not necessarily a BMW dealership. There are several message forums with very knowledgeable and helpful members, where you can learn a lot.

With only 35,000km it should be in pretty good shape, but have a qualiffied mechanic inspect it.

Most of the people who drive these cars are dedicated enthusiasts who love the vehicles and are prepared to put up with the idiosyncracies, complexity and expense of owning one of the most aesthetically and mechanically beautiful cars ever made.

The "poseurs" soon fall by the wayside.

So you gotta ask yourself...


Regards,
M.R.

If you are worried about the Money then don't buy one. As said in previous post it will take some $$$ to maintain. I just purchased a 17 yr old car and will be the last owner of it. Knowing, I would have to fix things right away but these are time less cars and becoming few and far between. Go for it . You have all the experts at your finger tips. Terry y is the aficionado of the forum.

The best advice that I can give is that if you have good mechanical and electrical skills or very deep pockets the 8 Series cars are a joy to drive:)

If you believe that the local BMW dealer knows best, you will need lots of cash to feed them:eek:

Some skill and a GOOD local shop can keep on running for years without major cost if it is well taken care of before you buy it.

If the last owner ran it into the ground because he couldn't afford to fix the problems as they came up can double the purchase price in repair costs.

Low mileage may not be the blessing that it seems. Some age related problems will always appear as we go along. The cooling system is one of those problems and a single overheating plays hell on the V12:(

Mine has less than $3000 US in maintenance costs over 4 years of ownership. But then again I drive mine rather than just admiring:) It doesn't have to be super shiny and dust free.

Some mechanic will take a look to the car, I really apreciate your comments.

Thanks !

I just bought one of these with 60k miles on it. Have not even taken delivery of it yet. Thanks for the good information. I'll keep you posted on how it goes!!