I have both an '88 740 turbo wagon w/ 185,000 miles and a '95 850 turbo wagon w/ 92,000. Love them both. I've been driving my 745t for a couple of weeks but today drove the 855t in to work. Fast, tight, comfortable and great looking. For the year I've had it I've had none of the major issues come up that are supposedly "common" to the 850s. I will say however that the previous owner had the transmission replaced under warranty and did the rear seal at the same time. That was at 56,000 miles. I've changed the front 02 sensor, upper engine stabilizer bushing, trans fluid (once) and synthetic oil every 3k.

All that said, it's for sale. While I really like it, pragmatism prevails and as a Do-it-yourself guy I see the 740 turbo, even with it's mileage, as my long-term-keeper. If you're interested in looking at the service history of my car it's at:

http://www.geocities.com/hwy51_guzzi/carhistory.htm

This is just one car's history but will give you an idea of what 850's can be like in terms of service. The previous owner was a professional lady and the daughter of our dealer's senior salesman. Bought it cash and added the third seat & CD changer. FWIW, the car is well known by the service dept as she took it in everytime she heard anything out of the ordinary or just to have a light changed. Also everytime the service light came on which is every 5,000 miles.

If you decide to buy and do your own work, be aware that starting with 96 you need a scan tool to pull codes (when CEL illuminates) and a different tool to reset the service light. Pre 96 you can do it under the hood at the diagnostic module.

If you're in the US and interested in my car email me for details.

eroman@wkno.org

Regards,
--
Erwin in Memphis, '88 745t 183,000 miles, '95 855t For Sale