How to roll in style, or why the E32 is the car to get!

"SwissTony" (SwissTony)
12/22/2014 at 19:15 • Filed to: BMW, e32, 730, 7 series, Beemer, Buying Advice, 80's, eurobarge, bbs

Do you love depreciation?

Do you love large luxury euro barges?

Here is a car to consider.

When the E32 BMW 7-series was released in mid 1986 it was a huge leap forward from its E23 predecessor. Sleek design that has aged well, reliable 3.0 six cylinder engines and good rustproofing makes it a very tempting alternative to any beige commuter.

Of course, anyone who knows anything about old cars will tell you about the massive running costs, due to the high-tech solutions on board. They will scare you with the prospect of becoming best friends with your local BMW mechanic.

The truth is, mechanically, these cars are absolutely bulletproof, and as long as they have been kept well, they will keep going for years before any major overhaul. The high-tech electronics on the other side, are slightly more prone to failure at this age, but considering the 30 years since the launch of this car, none of that tech is cutting edge, or expensive, while the parts supply and repair information is easier to come by then ever before.

The beauty of the E32s is that they seem to be reaching the turning point in terms of value. Right now, in the UK, they can be had for anywhere between 1k-4k of Queens Money, and my advice is to start with a good example with low mileage and good history, even if it costs a little bit more.

Of course we will not suddenly see these cars selling for 10's of thousands at classic car auctions, but if you were ever tempted by these large Bavarian beauties, I personally think that now is a good time to get them.

What do you think?

DISCUSSION (7)

SwissTony > SwissTony
12/22/2014 at 19:27

Mr. Ontop, No Strokes, No Smokes...Goes Fast. > SwissTony
12/22/2014 at 19:39

I think these cars are great IF you like to tinker on your car. My neighbor had one that he got in great condition, but due to it's age, something was always going wrong with it. Fortunately he was a mechanic, so repair costs just came down to sourcing parts, since labor was not an issue. I'm not exaggerating when I say not a single week went by when he wasn't replacing this sensor or that. The engine itself was fine, it was just all of the electrics wearing down at random.

So, fun car, yes. IF you like to work on cars.

Manuél Ferrari > SwissTony
12/22/2014 at 21:19

You forgot the best part! You can get one with our good buddy Manuél inside.

Harder for us in the US to find one, but it is doable. Some serious negotiations are needed though as the sellers are asking for way too much money. Example:

http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/…

A 7 series with a 5 speed stick just sounds so right

SwissTony > Manuél Ferrari
12/22/2014 at 21:33

I must admit, I prefer a manual transmission on any car.
Depending on the model, however, I have more or less tolerance for autos. The 7 series, for example, does not bother me with its auto box, as it is a large cruiser. I still cringe however, whenever I see a E30 325 Auto.

Manuél Ferrari > SwissTony
12/22/2014 at 21:36

I agree that large cruisers are OK with autos. But that's also what makes them so cool with manuals - it's rare and against the grain. And we know that there will never be another 7 Series with a manual in the future.

Also old slushboxes tend to die before the car does.

DipodomysDeserti > Mr. Ontop, No Strokes, No Smokes...Goes Fast.
12/23/2014 at 06:44

Are you my neighbor?

-E30 owner

This is the perfect description of what it's like to own an old BMW. Persistent tinkering.

Vippy > SwissTony
08/02/2016 at 06:46

I own this lovely beauty now