Specifications
Highlights
• Exceptionally Kept Example
• Completely Sorted Mechanically
• Documentation Including Original Window Sticker
EAG Impressions
The E28 5-Series represented BMW's second generation of their executive sedan, building upon the success of the E12. While it retained a similar silhouette to its predecessor, the E28 brought refinements in aerodynamics, comfort, and performance. In Europe, enthusiasts were treated to the M535i, a precursor to the iconic M5. However, U.S. buyers initially had to settle for less potent options due to stricter emissions standards. It wasn't until 1986 that Americans finally got a taste of true M Division engineering with the introduction of the E28 M5, powered by a modified version of the M1 supercar's engine.
Overview
The E28 M5 has the honor of being the United States’ introduction to BMW Motorsport. A rather ordinary-looking 5 series, with the heart of their M1 supercar, the E28 M5, not only started the trend of fast “Q-Ships” from BMW, but was also the car that started our business at Enthusiast Auto Group.
Sold for just one year, this 1988 E28 M5 shows 69,325 miles and is finished in the only color combination offered Stateside- black over a tan leather interior. This example came to EAG for a full rejuvenation totaling over $30,000 and features its original window sticker and documentation back to almost when it was new. Famously understated, beyond the black paint, the only real giveaways to what lay under the hood were a revised front air dam, rear decklid spoiler, and an M5 badge on the rear with the legendary tri-color M striping. The car sits on a set of 16-inch BBS basketweave wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Exalto tires. Overall, the exterior condition is excellent with only a handful of minor blemishes in the paintwork, which are to be expected on a car of this age.
Given the exterior condition, it should come as little surprise that the interior also presents fantastically. The front Recaro-sourced seats show minimal wear on the leather, and the rear seats look to have hardly ever been used. As the M5 was a real premium product in the day, it came nearly fully loaded from the factory, with features like power front seats, leather wrapped center console, and a power sunroof. The only interior modification on this example is a modern Kenwood head unit with USB and Bluetooth capabilities.
Under the hood is the most exciting part of the E28 M5 - the 3.5-liter S38B35 inline-6. This engine features dual overhead cams and individual throttle bodies and can draw a direct line back to the M88 inline-6 from the BMW M1 supercar. Producing 256 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque, this engine propelled the M5 to a top speed in excess of 150 mph. Power is sent through a 5-speed Getrag gearbox to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential.
History
When EAG received this car, it was already in quite nice condition. But, as we know, with age comes reconditioning, and through our thorough inspection of the car, we identified a number of areas needing attention to bring this car up to the standard it deserved. Our standard checks of the S38 saw the car get a full fluid service and tune-up, as well as the notoriously finicky valve adjustment. As tends to happen over time, small leaks were developing in numerous places, so we replaced seals around the engine, as well as power steering, hydroboost, and oil cooler lines. The suspension received a thorough refresh with new bushings, rear pitman arms, thrust rods, and front strut mounts, while the gearbox got a new input bearing and driveshaft flex disc. All four brake calipers were also rebuilt, and the wheels were refinished and received a fresh set of road-force balanced Michelin Pilot Exalto PE2 tires. Finally, we converted the air conditioning to run R134 and serviced the gauge cluster to ensure the gears don’t break and everything functions as it should.
Gallery
Documentation
