Two examples for sale now at classicandsportscar.com
OUR VERDICT
In recent years E34 M5s have been achieving far higher prices in Europe and the USA than in the UK, but that won’t last for long so grab one here before prices catch up. A cast-iron full history with lots of recent expenditure is ideal, and more important than the dream specification or low mileage. These iconic cars are an absolute joy to drive, so buy a good one then get out there and enjoy it!
FOR
Rarity and legendary status mean prices will only go up; strong support network from fellow enthusiasts, specialists and BMW itself
AGAINST
Many are neglected, modified, rusted and crashed: be careful to ensure all is correct and any past repairs are to a good standard
BMW M5 3.6
Year 1990 Recorded mileage 89,900km Price €44,900 Vendor Feuerstein Cars, Vechta, Germany; 0049 151 20451968; feuersteincars.de For Condition; high spec; sensible mileage Against Modifications won’t be to all tastes
Described by the vendor as being in ʻcollector conditionʼ and apparently sensibly priced, this handsome 3.6 was supplied new to Germany. Itʼs finished in Macao Blue, with a high spec including factory air-conditioning, leather, sunroof and stereo, and is said to have an accident-free history. Itʼs fitted with period BBS split-rim alloys (at a cost of nearly €5000) and adjustable KW suspension, though the original set-up is available if the buyer prefers.
BMW M5 3.8
Year 1995 Recorded mileage 146,720km Price €74,950 Vendor Premium Classics, The Netherlands; 0031 64131 6008; premiumclassics.nl For Six-speed 3.8 model; good history Against Fairly high mileage; ugly airbag wheel
This is a true ʻHoly Grailʼ M5, with the 3.8-litre engine, six-speed ʼbox, wider rear wheels and M-Tech mirrors, in desirable Cosmos Black with matching black Nappa leather wrapping its electric memory seats (but no stereo or rear spoiler). Itʼs done a fair few miles, but comes with a thick history file detailing some €11k of expenditure across the past 15 years to bring it up to its current excellent state. Priced near the top of the market, but rare to find like this.
THE KNOWLEDGE
TIMELINE
1988 M5 ‘3.6’ launched: 3.5-litre, 315bhp 1991 Cecotto special edition: Nappa leather, heated seats, 22 built; Winkelhock edition: lightened, de-specced, Recaro seats, red belts, 51 built (both LHD-only) 1992 3.8-litre: five-spoke alloys, vented rear discs; M5 Touring (8
