325ix Questions/.

[mph]

I am thinking about buying a 1989 325ix for $8900 with 56k miles. Anyone have any suggestions of things to look at when I go to look at the iX. I don't know too much about them, and would like to know as much as I can. I am going to get it as a winter car. Would that be a good idea?

nando, care to chime in?

[M-technik-3]

Bit steep for a 15 year old car. Still going to be worn in certain areas so My suggestion offer less maybe 6.5k and see what seller has to say.

[nando]

that's pretty low miles, but yeah the price is a bit much. I suppose if you really wanted a low mileage car. at that mileage there isn't really anything ix specific you'd have to worry about, other than making sure the fluids have all been changed and standard E30 stuff. it's an 89 so make sure the head bolts have been changed, make sure the timing belt has been done, etc etc. oh and if it's an auto don't waste your time ;)

[BS87]

Have it inspected by a mechanic, and pay close attention to the front half of the drive train, which i heard causes problems first.

[mph]

I talked to a BMW parts manager about them earlier today and he said the transfer cases are rock solid and some of the older ones may leak.

I would really like a standard transmission, but when it comes to ix's, they aren't exactly a dime to a dozen.

I didn't mind my 1989 325is that was auto, but that was because I didn't know how to drive stick when I had it ;)

This ix is an automatic

[nando]

well, if it's REALLY clean, it's not too bad (great in the winter still). but, 5 speed ix's are out there. the auto is SLOW off the line, even slower than a 325is auto. the miles on that car are pretty low, so everything should be in good shape (the drivetrain isn't going to be damaged at 56k unless somebody beat the fuck out of it). I'd wait for a 5 speed, even if it has twice as many miles it will be cheaper and more enjoyable, and probably in good condition if you look around.

test drive it and see if you like it. if you're only going to drive it in the snow it won't matter, but otherwise you'll be wishing for a 5 speed.