Re: 5 series input

[George & Cathleen Ax <axes@xxxxxxxxx>]

Josh,
1988 is the last year of the classic E28 platform, including 535i/535is.
The "s" configuration denotes Sport, and includes a beefier suspension,
sportier seats, etc.  My '88 535i has power everything (including sunroof).
The E34 platform 5-series was introduced in '89, and is no longer the "new
body style", with the introduction of the E39 platform in '97.  I can't
speak from first-hand experience regarding the E34, but can say with great
enthusiasm that my "old" E28 is the best car I've ever driven, not to
mention owned.

Hopefully others will jump in to give you a more definitive listing  of
yearly changes in the E28.  I believe at some point the LSD may have become
standard on the 535?  Mine has it, but it wasn't characterized as an option
by the former owner.  I know that the shifter assembly was modernized circa
86-7 with the modern aluminum carrier, nylon cup, etc.  I test drove
several 535's spanning 85-88, and subjectively could see/feel the
improvements in the later models (besides merely being newer).  I bought
the '88 two weeks ago, a steal at $8,500 owing to its near-mint condition;
112K miles but accelerates like 30K.


>My father is aiming to buy a '87-'89 535.  He lives in Durango, CO is is
>especially interested in a limited slip diff.
>I own a '90 325is and he is wondering if the s package entails the same
>bonuses as mine, auto sunroof, Recaros, LS.
>He is also looking for any pluses or minuses to the different years.  He
>will be a first time BMW owner and is not sure about all of the details of
>these years.  I gave him an idea, but he wants full information and input
>from those that have experienced them.
>He is not interested in the new body style due to $, but is not sure which
>year they started.
>Any and all input would be tremendously appreciated by both of us,
>particularly from those of you who own, or have owned these models,
>Many thanks.
>Josh Murray


George R. Ax, Jr.
BDM Federal, Inc.
Director, Sensors and Photonics
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