E34 530i with the 218 hp M60 V8 engine - any comments

Hi,

I am thinking of buying one of theese 1993-1995 model, it seems
possible to find them with around 200.000 kms driven, automatic
transmission, leather, a/c, etc, for about eur 3.500 which seems
somewhat reasonable.

Only thing that might worry a little is that as far as I can see that
engine was only used 1993-1995 which may (or may not?) indicate that
it for some reason could be a no-no?

I am aware that it is probably not the most fuel-saving engine, but
apart from that - any known issues?

** Lars

Hi Lars,

Based on your mail address I assume you are located in Denmark.
Forget the Nikasil horror stories, if the car comes from Germany or
otherwise continental Europe.
The high sulfur petrol was only a problem in US and UK and some other (South
Africa?) countries.
I drive a 09/92 German car that was brought over to Estonia in 1996 and has
had russian petrol ever
since. I now have passed 270000km mark and no signs of compression/power
loss.
Engine is generally in original condition (chain, cams, whole crank-piston
group). Only major things I've
done on it (apart from routine maintenance) are: water pump, thermostat, fan
clutch, crankcase ventilation
valve, air mass meter and O2 sensors. The clutch, cats and exhaust
(stainless steel!) are still originals.
What you should do though, is to check on the oil pump that is known to get
loose.

Regards,
Priit