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E28 M5/535si

Recently I've read a couple of entries asking questions about the E28
series M5 and 535si. Although I have not been involved in BMW ownership
nearly as long as some others on this digest I can give my impressions on
the M5 based on ownership of around a year and a half and many extended
discussions with various mechanics as well as other owners who belong to
the local chapter of the BMWCCA.

As to J Arnetts concerns about gas mileage; I dive typically within
metropolitan New Orleans with all the attendant traffic problems. My
average gas consumption is between 19 and 21 miles per gallon on Exxon
supreme. When driven on the highway the milage goes up to 26+ with a/c on,
and up to 30+ with a/c off and driven moderately. My driving style is
moderately agressive meaning on the highway I'll drive between 75 and 90
mph dependent on the conditions. All the M5s came with limited slip
differentials and the only options available was the heated seats. I have
had work done on my car twice: once to replace the front suspension
bushings as well as warped rotors with cross-drilled and semi-metallic pads
that cost about $800 and another time to replace cracked fuel lines and
repair the a/c which cost about $700. From an everyday standpoint, the car
has not been outrageously expensive to upkeep although parts cost are
comparatively high as related to the 528e and even 535i. But as you have
undoubtedly experienced, the difference in how the powerplant feels is
beyond description. It will simply get up and run away from almost anything
else out there as well as out handle and out brake them too. All this while
carrying 3 other people and their luggage is what sets these cars apart. At
this point the car has 78k on it and a few problems to deal with, but it
run very well and starts every time.
If you want 80-85% of the performance of and M5 without the added cost, the
535i/is are great deals. They have the same silky smooth power of the BMW
big six, but don't need to be wownd as hard to use it and they can be
brought up to the M car standards in terms of handling. What you will miss
is the wail when you really put your foot it the motorsport engine and the
extra difference in feel from a care that was basically put together by
hand.
The bottom line is the M5s are tremendous deals right now if you are
willing to put a little extra time and patience (read $$), if not the 535s
are a great alternative (just make sure you replace the outdated 390mm TRX
wheels. If you have any other questions your welcome to email me directly.

Good Hunting,

Stanley Chen
88' M5