1989 BMW (E34) 530I

KEY FACTS

  • A highly original example of a sought-after sports saloon, which would benefit from some cosmetic refurbishment to bring it up to a very good standard.
  • This early 530i is powered by a 185bhp 3.0-litre ‘M30’ straight-six, which drives the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.
  • Evidence of regular main dealer visits up until 2007, and various receipts covering maintenance since then.

EQUIPMENT AND OPTIONS

  • Specified in Royal Blue over full black leather upholstery, this 530i is also equipped with an on-board computer, dual-zone climate control, electric windows and mirrors, and a sliding sunroof.
  • The only known modification is the replacement of the standard suspension with a firmer Bilstein setup, to reduce body roll and deliver sharper handling.
  • The vendor notes that the original stamped service record is not included with the vehicle, though he has secured the evidence of regular main dealers between 1996 and 2007, which is included below.
  • The fold-down tool kit in the boot is intact and appears to be complete.

CONDITION

  • There is no current panel damage, though the vehicle has previously had a scrape on the nearside front door, which has been repaired during the vendor’s ownership.
  • For its age, the paintwork is in generally very good condition. There are a few blemishes and stone chips commensurate with the vehicle’s age and mileage, and some swirl marks on the roof. More noticeable marks are visible on the lower front bumper, rear offside bumper trim, and lower rear bumper. Its paintwork has been polished and treated to enhance its appearance and protection.
  • Some of the rubber seals are showing signs of age, but they are all still sound.
  • The interior is in good condition, but would benefit from some cosmetic rejuvenation. The driver’s seat is obviously rather creased and slightly discoloured, as is the fold-down armrest, and could be improved with a re-connolising treatment. The rest of the leather still looks smart in general, with no rips or tears in the seats.
  • The driver’s door pull handle trim is loose, there are various small scuffs and nicks around the plastics, and the gear shifter trim has deteriorated.
  • The passenger-side rear door lock has recently seized, so will need to be replaced in due course.
  • The vendor notes that there is an intermittent problem with the air-conditioning system, where the fan does not appear to work at lower speeds, along with an issue relating to the on-board computer which will be rectified before the vehicle is handed over.
  • There are no known mechanical issues. The car has always started immediately during the owner’s tenure, and has proved to be very reliable.
  • The most recent MOT test took place on 20 January 2021, and resulted in a pass with advisories for a faulty hazard warning switch and corrosion on the rear fuel pipes.
  • All four tyres are new, and have covered less than 200 miles.

SERVICE HISTORY

  • The most recent service was carried out by the vendor during August 2020, which included an oil and filter change and an air filter clean. Prior to this, the previous owner serviced the vehicle themselves during early 2019.
  • In addition to servicing, the brake pads were replaced in January 2021 at 74,000 miles by Advanced Autos of Bushey, and an exhaust leak was rectified.

Known BMW main dealer visits:

  • 03/12/96 - Cripps
  • 16/12/96 - Cripps
  • 27/03/98 - Cripps
  • 15/04/98 - Cripps
  • 24/06/98 - Cripps
  • 01/07/98 - Cripps
  • 01/09/98 - Cripps
  • 17/11/98 - Cripps
  • 08/03/99 - Cripps
  • 19/07/99 - Cripps
  • 16/08/99 - Cripps
  • 07/09/99 - Cripps
  • 22/02/00 - Sytner Leicester
  • 05/04/02 - Wollaston Motors ltd
  • 29/03/04 - Wollaston Motors ltd
  • 16/03/05 - Wollaston Motors ltd
  • 17/03/06 - Wollaston Motors ltd
  • 28/09/06 - Wollaston Motors ltd
  • 02/04/07 - Wollaston Motors ltd

SUMMARY

Offering an engaging analogue driving experience, smooth straight-six power and enough practicality for the whole family, the E34 5-Series is a great all-rounder. This 1989 example appears to have been kept in mechanically good order, and could be a great introduction to retro car ownership, especially for someone with the time and enthusiasm to put into some minor cosmetic jobs.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

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

Car Overview

  • 74,950 miles
  • manual
  • RHD
  • Royal Blue Metallic
  • Black Leather
  • 3.0L


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Lot Overview

  • Lot #03991
  • private Sale
  • Saint Albans, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

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Exterior  (60)

1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I

Interior  (49)

1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I

Mechanical  (6)

1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I1989 BMW (E34) 530I
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