(Posted elsewhere, but opinions from the BR are always valued)
I used to have a 1996 525 TD, which without SE spec had relatively low equipment (no aircon, limited seat adjustment) and was pretty slow (115 bhp from a 6-cylinder turbodiesel) - these were the factors that made me choose to sell it on and replace it with a Passat. However, I liked the way the old machine drove, and I prefer the look of that generation model to subsequent offerings in the range. Also, I reckon they were better built, so every so often I browse for a better specced version.
I've just seen a 525 TDS SE advertised, and I'm going to have a look tomorrow afternoon. However, I want to make sure of what I might be buying, and when looking on the What Car site, they provide the same spec list for all 5-Series from 1992 right up to this year. I can't imagine that the standard kit on a 2003 model was the same as for a 1995 model, so here's my first request: I'd be grateful if anyone could point me towards an accurate spec list for the TDS SE, or at least tell me what's incorrect about the What Car description (link via www.whatcar.com then Used Car).
Another question: although the car is advertised at £2500 (sounds ok), the mileage is up to 190k . Now, with this diesel engine I'm not particularly afraid of anything up to 130k, but at this stage I reckon the engine is nearly three-quarters of the way to retirement, not to mention suspension components or aircon. I think that for a private sale £2500 is well over the money. I'm thinking around £1700-£1800, although the vendor may not agree! So, in that regard, all opinions are welcome regarding price (and advisability!).
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andymc
Vroom, vroom - mmm, doughnuts ...
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Try:
www.parkers.co.uk/choosing/carreviews/review.aspx?...0(96-03)&page=5.
for a model/spec history. Nice car which goes well on veg oil blends so I've read!
Baz
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Cheers Baz - and yep, biodiesel is always part of the plan! Otherwise I'd be on the lookout for a Lexus, or something with a big V6 or V8.
Anyway, I had a look at it today, but decided against it. Too many rust patches and other damage to paintwork. Plus the suspension was clonking a bit, so was probably on its last legs. The way it floated/wobbled on the road confirmed this for me - it was reminiscent of the way the Passat drove when the suspension was failing. I must say I was also a little disappointed in the power delivery - had expected it to be equal to my Leon TDi 110, but it wouldn't even have competed with the Passat. All in all, I reckon I would have been buying myself a few large bills.
Thanks again to HJ for the exhaustive checklist in "How to Buy & Sell Cars" - a great resource to bring along to any potential purchase.
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andymc
Vroom, vroom - mmm, doughnuts ...
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Out of interest what year was it? I presume you're talking about the E39 shape?
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1995 - E34 shape. Like I say, there's something about the look of them that just says "classy car" to me, in a way that the E39 and the Bangle Beemers don't.
Having said that, perhaps I was remembering a little too fondly - I never thought I'd say it, but I guess now I have a Koni kit installed, I'm nearly prefer the Passat.
Still liked the sound of that six cylinder engine though - hmm, there was a 1994 model advertised with 130k on the clock for £1800 ...
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andymc
Vroom, vroom - mmm, doughnuts ...
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