Hi Carl,
i had a 96 bmw 523se, and i wish i still had it! Best second hand buy on the market without a doubt. I sold it and bought a Honda CRV, as we had a new member in the family. A dog! On paper the Beemer beats the CRV in every aspect, apart from pulling the 'van out of a muddy field. It should make a fine tow car, just watch out for the ice and snow this winter, thats the only downfall. Enjoy,
Gavin.