E38 BMW. What's the best engine to go for?

[DeanR32]

Morning all

As the title says, I'm looking for one of these at the moment. I'd love a V8 but I don't know if there's any weak points in these engines, and correct me if I'm wrong, but there seems to be two of them. I need reliability, so what engine will most likely give me no problems, in whatever guise (6,8 or 12cyl)? Fuel economy not an issue but I'm only looking to spend 2.5k on one (3k if it's the perfect car).

If I can't make up my mind on one, I'll have to resort to an E46!

Cheers

[DeanR32]

Cheers for the reply mate.

Just thinking about it, if I can't find a tidy V8/12, I'll more likely go for an E46 touring with a 3.0 (diesel or petrol).

What's the problem with the tanks?

[DeanR32]

Ok mate, cheers. If I go for one, I'll be sure to check it.

Are there any other points I need to look out for? Electrical issues, bodywork, engine/transmission problems?

[DeanR32]

Gramrugby said:

I've had 2 728's and 2 740's all sport models. They have all have been extremely reliable with no issues other than routine servicing.
I would pick the 740 every time. My current car has less than 10k and mint. Used sparingly to keep it that way.

Get some pictures up of it!

Should I be looking for a certain model, as in a facelift model, or certain upgraded parts etc?

Cheers for this by the way lads

[DeanR32]

That is really nice mate. Stunning motor.

They seem few and far between in good shape. I'll keep scanning the ads and see what I come up with

I'd love one in silver though. Lovely car again

[DeanR32]

I make you right E24. The problem is with my budget. It's pretty small so the better end of the market is out of bounds for me.

If I didn't need the doors, I'd be looking for an E24! I'd have to raise the budget mind!

[DeanR32]

Sorry for the thread revival, but I'm actively looking now. Infact, I could do with a car this weekend as I lose my courtesy car Tuesday.

Cars in my budget seem to all be between 100-150k miles. Should I discount cars with these sort of mileages?

Also, although the general consensus seems to be the 4.4 is the best of the bunch, are cars with the 3.5 V8 worth considering?

And are there any must have options?

Cheers again

[DeanR32]

Thanks for the replies

I'm looking at a 735i which apparently has had it's gearbox rebuilt at ZF in gemany with a receipt to prove. 2001 so I assume the last of the line, and looks pretty good to me.

Any options I should be looking for?

[DeanR32]

Very nice looking car sparks. I can't get a V8 out of my head in one of these though.

I've been looking at 39's and 46's too. 30i or d is fine by me in either car. Plenty more on the ground too

If you lot see anything out there, please let me know. I just can't seem to make my mind up on what I want!