Oil or petrol 5 series

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In the new year its likely I will replace our daily runner with something altogether more comfortable. Used to own a 525i back in the day and found it to be very nice indeed in terms of comfort, so going back to one.
Not a big budget at around 5/6k so looking at an 2005/6 model with average miles but good service history. However really don't know where we would be better off, either an oil burner or petrol? We do 10-12k year retired couple usual use shopping, social and occasional long trip. Any advise please.

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hornetrider said:

I'd be happier buying a petrol at that budget and looking at your intended use.

Thank you, in terms of longevity as the car we buy will likely be showing around 80k on the clock, is it reasonable to assume maintenance/reliability will be OK. I realize that its a gamble on a used car of this age/mileage but in general terms.

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Yup, thanks for comments, I will have a look at some 'whichcar' sites.

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Thanks again to all contributors, some very good advise offered. Seen a couple of cars which looked to fit the bill but then found 'smokers pack fitted'. We are all non smokers and highly sensitive to the odour of stale tobacco. Mighty fine cars though!

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Once again cheers for advise especially the smokers pack which had been 'putting me off' cars so fitted.
I thought the 'spittoon' mentioned earlier was a simple matter of opening the drivers window

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Mind made up its going to be a 525/528i SE petrol model at around 80,000 miles or less for the budget. Light colour leather interior is a must for me as well, I am not a fan of black, but that mere detail. Started looking around but won't commit until after Christmas, unless something outstanding catches the eye!
Thanks all respondents.