E36 Battery

[rpeng@xxxxxxxxxxxxx]

I have a '92 325is. I still have the original battery in the car, and it's 
working fine. Does anyone know how long does this battery typically last? Is 
it a good idea to replace it at this time? 
 
I have been looking at possible replacements. Here are the choices: 
1) Factory battery from dealer: $135. (Rip off) 
2) Exide Nascar: $100 (still kind of expensive) 
3) Interstate: $100 (expensive, and I don't like this brand. I had one
before 
in another car, and it leaked acid) 
4) Optima battery: $120 (Expensive but worth the price. I have high regard
for 
this product--high cold cranking amps, longetivity, never leaks acid nor 
produces fume) The problem is that the terminal locations are the opposit
from 
the factory battery. Has anyone put one in this model of BMW? Does it
require 
buying longer cables?  
 
Does anyone have any other suggestions?  
 
p.s. Please c/c me with your reply. Thanks. 
 
- -Roger Peng 

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