Chassis No. WBSDC9309J2791846

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

After seeing success with transplanting the heart of the legendary BMW M1 into a volume production car with the shark-nosed M635CSi, the talented minds in Munich began working their magic on the new 'E28' 5-Series sedan. Customers got a taste of what to expect in an M-powered four-door with the short-lived M535i, but the fully-fledged M5 wouldn't break cover until the 1985 Amsterdam Motor Show. It was equipped with the state-of-the-art 3.5-liter 'M88/3' inline-six engine out of the M1, or a slightly detuned version dubbed the 'S38B35' in Japan and the US. The federalized engine still produced some 40 horsepower more than the M535i. Further performance goodies included lowered and stiffened suspension, ABS-equipped ventilated disc brakes, a limited-slip differential, and aero enhancements in the form of a front splitter and lip spoiler. The result was the fastest four-door production car in the world and one of, if not the most important model ever to be graced with the 'M' badge in BMW's illustrious history.

This BMW M5 is one of the 1,340 examples allocated to the US, delivered in Schwarz (black) over Natur (beige) leather – one of only two factory color schemes available. It also has the only option available for this model, heated seats. According to the accompanying Carfax report, this M5 appears to have been first registered in Michigan prior to assuming long-term, 24-year ownership in Ohio. Recently the M5 has been treated to an extensive mechanical refurbishment including a new fuel pump, fuel filter, brake pads and rotors, injectors, and a new battery in October 2022. At the same time, the car was professionally repainted its factory shade of Schwarz black courtesy of Vintage Works Restoration and Reconditioning in Toledo, Ohio. As a final touch, the correct, 16-inch BBS cross-spoke basketweave wheels were mounted with a brand new set of Michelin Pilot Sport tires in November 2022.

Today, this supremely collectible, five-speed manual sports sedan remains the holy grail of the segment it helped create and is presented in wonderful condition, showing 120,848 miles on the odometer at the time of cataloging. This E28 M5 presents an excellent opportunity to own a well-prepared example of one of Munich's rarest M-powered four-doors ever built.