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Help me chose a BMW

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Hello, this is my first post to this list an so please tell me if this kind of
message is inappropriate or covered in some part of the FAQ which I did not
notice.

Anyhow, I used to be the proud owner of a '93 Probe GT which is now history
because it was burnt in a fire. So I'm in the market for a new car and I would
really like to have a BMW. I can only afford a used one though. I'm looking to
spend no more than around $14K and the two models I have my eye on the most are
either a 89-91 325 2 door or an 87-88 535.  My wife and I still have to decide
whether we want a larger four door or a smaller two door kind of car.

BTW, i will Not get a automatic, but stick shift instead

So anyhow, I have a bunch of questions! :-) Here goes:

For the 325:

1- What is the differrence btween the 325i and 325iS? (I read about the
difference btwn the 325e and the 325i)

2- Any particular model years I should avoid/try to get?

3- What reliability concerns are there with these cars? I plan to keep it for at
least 3 to 4 years.

4- What model year did the bumpers and tail lights change to get that newer
   integrated look. I know '91's have it. What about '90s?

5- When I buy a used car what things should I look after specific to BMW's and
make sure they are OK?

6- Is a BMW dealer the best place to go hunting for a used car (its easy) or
should I try to buy it from an individual (concerned mostly about reliability,
not price difference)

7- Any paint colors that exhibit problems? I'm thinking of either a red or black
325 or a black 535. (My blue probe got a lot of paint chips whereas red probes
seemed to be painted better).

8- Anything else I should be aware of?

For the 535:

I guess 2,3,5,6,7,8 apply.

Finally, what do you all think is better deal/car etc: the 325 or the 535?

Obviously I will go for test drives to see which I like better but your opinions
would be very useful.

Thanks a lot!

- -Eric

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 Eric Bosco                                       Systems Management Products
 [email protected]                                        SNMP Development
 (415) 506-6150                            	           Oracle Corporation
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