1986 BMW M535i E28 'Manual' Saloon

Description

The second-generation BMW 5-Series, codenamed E28, was an entirely new and significantly improved model from the outgoing E12. A superbly engineered sports saloon, the 5-Series featured redesigned suspension both front and rear to give better ride and handling, along with a reworked range of six-cylinder engines with the latest in fuel injection technology from Bosch. The range topping 535i guise, there was a 3.5-litre M30 version of the silk smooth straight six engine developing nearly 220bhp and was available in either automatic or five-speed manual form. Improved build quality was another key area of improvement, along with a beautifully designed cabin that set new standards in both ergonomics and passenger comfort. In the luxurious 535i, every conceivable option was available including air conditioning, power windows, electric mirrors and central locking. The ultimate production model, the M535i, used the drivetrain from the 535i but with a five-speed close ratio dogleg gearbox plus M-Technic suspension, LSD, sports wheels and factory sports body kit not found on any other E28. Also featured was a full leather interior with special sports seats up front and individual rear seats, and two-way electric sunroof. Factory performance figures for the manual transmission cars claimed a top speed of 230 km/h and 0 –100 km/h acceleration in 7.2 seconds. The BMW 5-Series was a driver's car first and foremost and in range-topping M535i guise was both hugely desirable in its day and limited in production (at the Dingolfing and Rosslyn factories), making it very sought after today.