Hi, Just picked up a 1984 533i with 230000 km on it for $500.00. Question I have is that it is quick to overheat. Have flushed the rad, will change out the thermostat, but my question is the upper rad hose is hard after a few minutes at idle. The bottom hose remains soft and pliable. Could it be a water pump issue? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Most likely its a water pump

Thanks for the info Mike, will check the water pump.