Well, I've been in search for my car for some time now and i just found a perfect one for me..

'98 528i with all the things I was GOING to do after I get the car (angel eyes, m5 grills+bumper, xenon lights, ETC) for $9400

PERFECT!!! right??


NOT!!! according to bunch of people around me..
the only thing that concerns them(and me) is that this car has 142k on it... and the fact that this guy is 2nd owner. for a '98, it's pretty high mileage

so my question is.. should i get this car or should i leave it alone because of its high mileage?? I don't want to spend another thousands fixing things. i know i'm suppose to take it to a mech for an inspection but still, 142k kinda concerns me and that's why i'm posting this so i can hear from owners opinion.. is 142k high or is it okay?

thanks

It's not bad if the other owners cared for it...
Get the inspection, and have them pay special attention to the cooling system.... try to get a maintainance history too...
Good luck!!!
:D

I would look for a 2001-2003 530i.
I would not buy these cars used off warranty if you are not willing to do work on the car and spend money for maintenance and repairs.
This is just my opinion...
Jason

i'm very willing to do work on the car and spending money for maintenance but not willing to spend half cost of the vehicle..

anyway it seems like it's alright and the inspection will be the key point..

i'll let you guys know after i test drive it.. thanks for the replies!!

Please, PLEASE!, test drive other cars out there!
E39's are a dime a dozen.
If this car is not EXACTLY what you are looking for, then move on to the next one.
There are plenty out there.
Drive the 540i, 530i, sh*t, why not the new 335i turbo!
Try the new Infiniti G.
I would recommend getting something newer with a warranty.
Jason

:shifty

I have a 98 528iA blk/blk, sport package, 127K miles, new auto trans, alt, tires for sale for $8K if you're interested. With the money saved you can get all that stuff brand new.

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10449989#post10449989

I apologize for the shameless plug...but I wouldn't be too concerned about the mileage. With proper maintenance BMW's can last 300K+ miles.

car looks amazing.. but the thing is i don't want to drive down to LA to buy the car... heh

The price does seem steep for the mileage. The mileage does not bother me half bit - these things are built to last. I am sure mechanical stuff matters but generally if you bought a radio that was functioning correctly, you prolly would not concern too uch with how many hours previous owner listened to it. they are either working or not. Similarly, you can buy a low, low mileage vehicle and spend the cost of the car in repairs. I have had 40K cars that needed major repairs. and cars at 160K tht never needed anything but routine.

Now that I have plenty confused you, I would negotiate and buy the damn thing. They are a hoot to drive! Like you said - all the work is already done - which translates to "I am saved from braking extra parts while doing the conversion" Someone already took the plunge - enjoy it!