I am looking at a 91 535i-5 here in Chicago. The interior is perfect as is the exterior. No rust or dents. Interior has no tears and all the electronics work minus some of the lights on the dash display ( read out is very dim on the right hand side). No modifications what so ever, 5-speed and 111,000 miles. No records. Drives smooth and no noticeable clunks or vibrations in the suspension, only reached 60+ once though. Every thing seems to check out. I have been reading through many forums to educate my self about these cars. I would like a little advice on some things, which I have stated below.

Questions:

Does a 535i, 5-speed with heated seats have a LSD? Any easy ways to tell? He said no, but he was rather young and might not know him self.

During the drive, and with about 5 minutes of idle in a parking lot after the drive, the motor never ran hotter than half way on gauge. Also the car has no leaks that I could see, as he also stated this. Although while I was checking the motor it seemed to have a noticeable tick. Got under the car and it appeared to be louder. I was told by an e34 enthusiast that the valve train is non hydraulic and this can make some noise, as do the Bosch injectors. It also has an exhaust leak, maybe it could be the catalytic converter leaking and causing the sound. Should I be deterred by this?

Unfortunately My friend who knows these cars in and out will not be available till some time next week. He has told me through our conversations and my analysis, that this seems to be a rather good deal. I guess I am just looking for additional advice to ease my mind.

Thanks in advance;
Brandon

BTW, I am looking forward to owning this car (first BMW). I am half owner of CJ-motorsports, and will be making this car into a nice daily cruiser. If you look on our website, you will see that I can't leave well enough alone, though.