1990 BMW M5 (E34)

This 1990 BMW M5 (E34) is a superb modern classic performance saloon, which is in impressive mechanical and cosmetic condition. As an early E34 M5, it is powered by the 311bhp 3.6-litre S38B36 straight-six engine, with rear-wheel drive via a five-speed manual transmission. The odometer indicates just 77,551 miles from new.

Completed at the factory in May 1990, this original right-hand drive car was supplied new to the UK and was first registered in August that year. It has evidently been well cared for by previous keepers, and has been owned by the vendor for the last two years.

The Brilliant Red paintwork is in excellent condition, and has certainly been treated to a professional respray at some point. The finish around the car is smooth and even with a vibrant shine. All of the plastic trims and rubber seals are in very good order, and all light lenses are undamaged and free of clouding.

It sits on a set of genuine 17-inch M Technic alloy wheels with the ‘throwing star’ covers, though was almost certainly delivered new with the turbine type plastic caps. Other exterior features include factory-fitted headlight washers, as well as an electrically-operated sunroof with tilt and slide functions.

Inside, the Silver Grey Nappa leather is in great condition. The hide shows wear from age and use, but there is only the slightest discolouration from contact on the driver’s seat bolster. The seats are electrically-adjustable and have heating for the driver and front passenger. On the driver’s side there is also has a position memory function.

The extended leather option means the Nappa trim is also present on the door cards, where there is some visible stretching and creases in the finish. Cabin equipment includes dual-zone climate control, cruise control and an aftermarket Kenwood stereo head unit with CD player and Bluetooth connectivity.

At the back of the car, the boot lining carpet is all in good order. The original tool kit, warning triangle and locking wheel nut are present under the boot lid, though a couple of the tools are missing. A full-size spare wheel remains stored under the boot floor.

The car was last serviced in 2018 by Elvins Garage in Norfolk, which comprised full replacement of the engine oil as well as a new oil filter. In 2017, various parts were sourced from Sytner BMW in Romford, including a new radiator, oil cooler and thermostat.

An overhaul of the suspension, steering and air-conditioning systems was carried out in August 2012 at Arden BMW Maidstone, with several thousand pounds spent by the owner at the time. Replacement parts included a new emission control air pump, throttle valve cable, air-conditioning condenser and auxiliary fan, as well as a conversion to R134a refrigerant. The offside front wheel bearings were renewed, and the left, right and central steering tie rods were replaced. New anti-roll bar links at the front and rear were fitted, along with new drop arms at the rear.

Its last MOT test was in May 2018 at 77,382 miles, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories. It is currently stored under a valid SORN certificate, but the MOT has expired, so the car will need to be tested again before being put on the road.

As the car has only been driven sparingly in recent years, the wheels are currently fitted with budget tyres in size 245/45 ZR17 at the front and 255/40 ZR17 at the rear.

Accompanying the car is the original book pouch containing all of the user manuals, as well as numerous invoices from BMW main dealers and old MOT certificates. An original spare key, remote fob and infrared alarm remote are also present.

This BMW M5 is a very smart example of the E34 era flagship. It is finished in an eye-catching factory colour and presents superbly. A highly original car with relatively low mileage from new, this M5 would be a worthy addition to any collection of BMWs or modern classic performance cars, and is ready to be put into service on the road or to impress at shows.