Newbie seeking assistance on 325i Cab purchase.

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E39mad
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Location: Happy Valley - hic - Cheshire

Wed Feb 24, 2010 6:36 pm

Been to see what appears to be a very clean car today.

Chrome bumper, original paint in v good order, manual 325i Cab from early 1990. 72000 miles and seen the history to back it up so genuine. It does not have aircon but has sports fabric seats (no rips) and BBS alloys - hood is excellent (manual) works no problem. No rust on panels or inside arches.

Two queries as I don't know these cars well enough (yet!):

1.) What sort of value is a very straight rust free unmolested 325i Cab chrome sub 100k mile worth - from and to would be good.

2) Said I'd be back to test drive it - what should I be looking for on the drive and other parts of the car I have missed.

Finally if anyone is Stockport based and knows these cars well (I am in Bollington) and fancies earning a few jars I would really welcome a 2nd opinion.

Cheers all.
Morat
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Wed Feb 24, 2010 6:53 pm

If that mileage is correct, it is quite low - but you'd need a cast iron service history to believe it. Test drive it like any other car really, look out for knocks, klunks and rattles. If it feels loose at the back you may need to negotiate on rear subframe bushes which will be at least £250 for a garage to replace them.

Colour will have an impact on price, dark colours do well, reds tend to fade in the sun and white is love/hate. I'll let someone in the know give a verdict on price!
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gooner1
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Wed Feb 24, 2010 7:02 pm

Rust is your main concern imo. Also check all electrics are working properly, inc Heating
and watch the Temp Gauge. Feel for damp in both the front and rear carpets, if Possible
run hosepipe over the the car, and try to get a good look underneath.
Good luck.
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cecotto479
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Wed Feb 24, 2010 7:24 pm

gooner1 wrote:...... run hosepipe over the the car......
Good luck.
Obviously don't do this with someone sitting in the car, or they'll get soaked.
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E39mad
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Thu Feb 25, 2010 10:05 am

Thanks all :) .

S/H is cast iron and has had the timing belt changed also.

What about clutches and gearboxes on the 325i - does the box oil require changing to make it last?

Anyone else any ideas on value - realise it's difficult without pics but rough guide will do!
Hellbound
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Thu Feb 25, 2010 1:35 pm

If you don't want it I've got a grand here winkeye

If it's clean, I'd say anything up to 3.5k depending on spec and condition. As you say, its difficult putting a value on a 20+ year old car without a lot of detailed photos.
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