I know this is a place where I'm likely to get positive reviews, but I'm hoping for an honest opinion on the 2001/02 C70 Coupe. My beloved '89 325i with 250k+ miles is due for replacement (mostly due to clear-coat cancer) and I'm hoping for something similiar in terms of minimal maintenance. I paid $3k for the Bimmer in 2001 with 115k miles, and have put about $3k in total maintenace costs in ten years in exchange for 140k miles of service. I'm looking for something similiar in terms of investment and return. Here's the rub: is it realistic to pay $8-9,000 for a C70 at or around 100-150k miles and expect another 100k for $3-5,000 in maintenance costs over ten years? I'm more than your average competancy mechanic (the only thing I farm out is paint and upholstery) and dad's been in the auto parts business for 45 years and has an AWESOME set of tools, so I have a couple advantages. Timing belt changes and valve jobs are weekend entertainment, and what I can't do myself I can prolly get done by a "family connection" faily cheap. I guess I'm just a little gun-shy as these were $40-50,000 cars a few years ago and are now under $10,000...does that imply a certian half-life on them like the V12 Bimmers for whom the rule was "Sell it the week before the warrany runs out, or else"?

My first choice would be a Studebaker, but reliability might be an issue, lol. Been there, done that.

Thanks for your time,
-M

 

I just bought same yr coupe...nice....getting major tune up, PCV transmission flush...the works....You having the place and Tools...you will be in Heaven...I added a Pioneer Nav system in it and will be adding a Viper alarm with Smart Start...then a new set of rims...I'm staying with 17's....don't like rough rides..the technician told me the car is in great shape....now the price your paying is a lil steep...please get a carfax on it...good luck and enjoy....