E 34 quazy

[nw bimmer]

Hello to all, I am new to this forum and fairly new to BMW's althought I did briefly own a 88 325 & 91 318is (nice cars) most of my experience is in Merc. I assume the basics of Merc ownership apply to BMW. PPI of a subject vech is mandatory. Books and records are preferable. Find a good indy and aviod Factory dealerships at all costs or it may cost you all you have.
I am interested in an E 34 and was wondering what to aviod or what was better. I am looking for a 6 cylinder It is my understanding the V8's are to be avoided. I understand not all were bad and some have been factory replaced but....I've heard the 6 cyl have timing belts and have 30 k replacement intervals? I would prefer manual (getrag) tranny but they seem sparce, are the automatics fairly sturdy? Is there a significant difference (besides the displacement) between the 2.5 and 3.5 engines, Also I am a bit of diy'er (Hans can do the ugly stuff) are the E 34's friendly to a wrench turner? I'll put a cork in it and give everyone a chance to talk. I want to thank all in advance for your insight and knowledge.

[coolvegase34]

If you go with a 1993-1996, there is a timing chain. Auto trans is 95% of all e34's imported to the US. There have been documented swaps. Auto trans lasts as long as one should as long as you change the "lifetime" fluid. 1993 was the last year for the 3.5. 3.0 v8 is 6 performance with v8 maintenance. 4.0 is nice and fast but more maintenance. 525i between 93 and 96 is your best bet for a dd as long as it's maintained and has service records.