1985 BMW (E28) M535i

Originality is the buzzword for this untampered-with E28-generation BMW M535i, which is presented in good working order with only a few superficial imperfections. Under the bonnet is a 3.4-litre, six-cylinder petrol engine that produces 215bhp, and sends that to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. The odometer shows 84,145 miles.

This M535i was first registered on August 15,1985 and has since passed through the hands of several owners. However, the seller, who has kept the car for the past 18 years, notes the first two owners were in fact the same, with the V5C passing between company and son, who kept the car until 2001.

The car’s paintwork is generally in good condition, although the seller notes some remedial painting has been carried out. There are a few scuffs to the bonnet and front bumper, as well as a few stone chips, and these images betray a small scratch near the driver’s-side headlight. Otherwise, it looks to be in good order, with no apparent dents or other imperfections in the classic Cinnabar red paintwork. The alloy wheels look great, too.

But if the wheels are good, they’ve got nothing on the cabin. There are a few minor scrapes on the back of the driver’s seat, but everything else looks to be in strikingly good condition considering the car’s age and mileage. The original cloth seats are in particularly good shape, with very little sign of wear. Better still, all the buttons and switches work as they should, while the seller reports no warning lights on the dashboard.

The car’s last service was carried out by BMW specialist Clayton Cars on August 22, 2001, at 82,569 miles. That service saw the oil changed and some other maintenance work completed, but the car has since been stored in a warm building. The current owner has carried out a service, changing the oil and filter and checking the brakes, but has driven just 2,500 miles in the car during their 18-year stint as registered keeper. All the major parts, such as the engine and gearbox, are original, although the seller says the sole modification is a stainless steel exhaust system.

The most recent MOT test was on September 19, 2020 at 85,155 miles, which resulted in a clean pass. The seller notes the tyres still have 6mm of tread remaining.

A wide range of literature is offered with this car, including the original owner’s handbook and service book. The car also comes with a stack of invoices detailing service and maintenance that has been carried out.

This E28 M535i offers classic BMW looks with the usability of a more modern sports saloon. It may not be a concours car, but it hasn’t been spoilt with heavy modifications. It’s very original, and it’s there to be used and enjoyed, giving its next owner the chance to get out and experience that glorious straight-six engine the way BMW intended.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.