Good idea or Bad Idea

[PuRrinG318ti]

I'm planning to buy this 1995 318ti, 5 speed with the millage of 170,000 for $5k...is it worth it? They say its in excellent condition with a few things modified..should I or should i not?

[cali-ti]

mileage is somewhat high, but if it's well maintained, it shouldn't be a big deal. ask for service records and check it out to see what condition it's in. i would start lower and negotiate a better price. there are some high cost replacement items you may have to do on a higher mileage car like that. i just did subframe bushings and trailing arm bushings and the labor can be quite steep. you might want to consider paying an hour or so of labor to a bmw dealership or an independent shop to inspect it for possible problems, could be well worth the $100 or so to find out if there are any potential issues. they can get it up on a hoist and really look it over, which i'm guessing you won't be able to do.

[PuRrinG318ti]

well, I've been searching and finding different but recent models for about the same price but with low mileage, for ex. a 2001 bmw325i w/ mil of 63,213 it has everything. The 318ti has everything but the low mileage. Should I go with the most recent one or stick with the 318ti, yet a lot of people are telling me its a great deal for the ti because the owner has modified the car and its in excellent condition.

[MEDIA PUSHER"]

I agree with cali, these cars are solid, but at their midlife if they haven't been well maintained replacing many consumable parts all at once can be pricey. Without a doubt have it professionally inspected, check for suspension wear, and how recently its been taken in for an inspectionI or inspectionII. Cash really talks, and due to the mileage and results of inspection you might have a bit of leverage. I live in socal and have been helping my brother look for a car in the 5K range. Theres alot out there, but I'd be weary of a 2000+ bmw being sold for 5K. He's leaning towards a porsche 944 or 924, found a black one with 58,000miles for under 5K. Anyway, the ti is a great car, i love mine, but don't rush into something your not sure about, if it doesn't feel right just hold off, there are plenty more out there.

[nick_hegel]

What are the mods to the TI??? Sounds like high mileage so you would definitely need to have it looked over b-4 any money exchanges hands