So, Enthusiast Auto has a 128i in their Inventory

[850tgul]

Originally Posted by smellthebeans

Too bad it's an N51.

Yeah, too bad it comes standard with the disa manifold, just as bulletproof reliability as an N52, and a 15 year/150,000 mile warranty. Damn shame.

[sixburgh]

EAG is a niche company and has credibility and a reputable following in the BMW community. I know them and like them.
Sounds like a "great" price. It's the difference between a buyer and a seller. Ever hear of the "e30 tax"? Well, this could be the start of the 128i tax.
EAG is a market maker.
BTW, I just saw Bruce Springteen tickets on sale for $1,200.00 each and they weren't first row either. Sometimes money is inapplicable.

[champignon]

EAG is a business and I don't begrudge them the ability to sell any car at any price that they can find a willing (sucker) to buy.

That being said, they and a few other dealers in this niche area (Avazi, Mr. Z3, and at least a couple more) let you know with their listings, what is the absolute highest price that any trusting fool might pay for a certain unusual BMW vehicle. With that as a ceiling price, you can look at other listings and begin to form an opinion about what is a fair market price for what you are seeking.

[fcman]

Seeing as they also sell stuff like this I would say they aren't making any statements about what an enthusiast's BMW is, they just take anything in immaculate condition and make as much money as possible on them. Not to mention they have had 135's listed in the past.

[champignon]

Originally Posted by fcman

Seeing as they also sell stuff like this I would say they aren't making any statements about what an enthusiast's BMW is, they just take anything in immaculate condition and make as much money as possible on them. Not to mention they have had 135's listed in the past.

They must really be going downmarket if they are now selling stuff like that X3. I would not have expected to see them selling that sort of product even if they took it in, in trade. That's what auto auctions and wholesaling is intended for, if you are a high end exclusive resale lot.

[smellthebeans]

Originally Posted by 850tgul

Yeah, too bad it comes standard with the disa manifold, just as bulletproof reliability as an N52, and a 15 year/150,000 mile warranty. Damn shame.

The reference was to an aftermarket tune. The N51 will accept a tune just fine, but will not produce the same numbers at the top end as the N52. The difference is only about 10 HP. Which, ironically is probably within the margin of error for most dynometers.

[Suprgnat]

Originally Posted by smellthebeans

The difference is only about 10 HP.

If that much. <5 hp with the N52s 10.7:1 versus the N51s 10:1.