1983 BMW 528i Motorsport Saloon

Description

Although it may have looked like the outgoing BMW E12 5-Series model, the second-generation E28 (1981 to 1988) was an entirely new and significantly improved mid-sized luxury sports saloon that really put the German brand on the map in Australia. Improved suspension front and rear made the new 5-Series better to drive, while the range of six-cylinder engines was reworked with updated fuel injection. The premium-model 528i had 184bhp on tap to provide sparkling acceleration in period and a top speed of 210km/h. Improved build quality was another key area of development, as was the interior with its beautifully designed cockpit that set new standards for ergonomics and comfort in the era. The BMW 5-Series was a driver's car first and foremost, one of the key models that put BMW on the road to international success. BMW imported a handful of very exclusive 528i Motorsport models, a car developed specifically for and exclusively to the Australian market. While the 528i Motorsport utilised the standard M30B28 fuel-injected six-cylinder engine with dual exhausts, it was mated to a Getrag five-speed 260 manual gearbox (not the dogleg ‘box of the later M535i), an LSD, Bilstein shock absorbers, thicker front sway bar, lowered springs and a set of BBS alloy wheels. The M-badged body was given front and rear spoilers and Motorsport striping, and inside Recaro sports seats and a leather sports steering wheel. Numbers are unclear, though some sources suggest just 72 examples were imported.