Highlights
- Presented in Salmon Silver Metallic over Pearl Beige interior
- Remarkably original throughout
- Reports of a full bare metal restoration
- Strong MOT, service, and repair documentation
- Tax and MOT exempt as of August 2026
The Appeal
Before the M5 became a household name, there was the E28 535i, a Q-car for those in the know. Built on the revered BMW M535i platform from BMW’s golden era, the 1987 SE offered a tantalising slice of Motorsport flavour without the full M-car price tag. With its deep front air dam, subtle boot spoiler and that muscular straight-six up front, it delivered the kind of discreet pace that embarrassed sports cars while carrying five adults in comfort. For enthusiasts, it represents the sweet spot of analogue BMW engineering; rear-wheel drive balance, robust mechanicals, and just enough luxury, making it one of the most usable and charismatic fast saloons of the 1980s.
This particular car wears its period credentials proudly, finished in rare Salmon Silver Metallic over Pearl Beige leather, a sophisticated combination that feels very much of its time in the best possible way. The paintwork is reported to present well overall aside from blemishing on the driver’s door, while the bright glass, tidy engine bay and straight underside suggest a car that has been cared for rather than simply used up. The interior remains pleasingly tidy, complete with factory switchgear, a functioning sunroof and beige carpets showing only age-appropriate wear. The leather upholstery is smart overall, with most imperfections confined to the driver’s seat, and the seller notes that “Some minor blemishes may need attention to leave in concourse condition, but overall it’s in A1 order”.
On the road is where the 535i truly earns its reputation. The 3.4-litre M30B34 straight-six delivers the kind of effortless, turbine-smooth shove that defined fast BMWs of the era, here paired with a four-speed ZF automatic for relaxed yet decisive progress. Producing around 215–218 hp through the rear wheels, it’s a car that flows down a road rather than attacks it, a long-legged express perfectly suited to modern classic use. Riding on distinctive 17-inch Alpina alloys (which could benefit from a light refurbishment), and described by the existing keeper as being in “good mechanical condition”, this example captures exactly why the 535i has become such a connoisseur’s choice: discreetly special, deeply capable, and infused with that unmistakable old-school BMW magic.
The History & Paperwork
- First registered in August 1987
- The photos indicate an odometer reading of 54,000 miles; however, due to an odometer replacement, it is estimated that the car has covered a mileage of circa 120,000 miles
- V5C in the existing keeper’s name
- Ten keepers from new
- The vendor reports the car “has had a full bare metal restoration and a new leather interior fitted”
- BMW Owner’s Information folder, BMW Service Booklet, Blaupunkt Radio Manual,
- Strong record of MOT certificates, along with extensive service records and repair invoices from new
A note from the vendor: “M tech side skirts, rear bumper, and H&R lowered springs are available together with a selection of spares and accessories.”
The Condition
- Finished in Salmon Silver Metallic (203) over Pearl Beige (206) leather interior
- The Salmon Silver paintwork appears to be in fine fettle, although there’s notable paint blemishing on drivers door
- 17-inch Alpina style alloy wheels could benefit from a light refurb
- Underside of the vehicle appears straight and as expected
- Engine bay is tidy and presents well
- The Pearl Beige leather upholstery presents smartly, with the majority of imperfections on the front and rear of the driver's seat
- Factory sunroof appears to be functioning
- Original instrument cluster and switchgear
- Beige carpets and floor mats appear well with some wear consistent with usage
- Rear passenger side window switch is present, albeit not quite working and will need repairing or replaced
- The seller notes: “Some minor blemishes may need attention to leave in concourse condition, but overall it’s in A1 order”
- Spare wheel and tools can be found in the boot
The Mechanics
- 3.4-litre M30B34 inline-six petrol engine
- Four-speed ZF automatic transmission
- Approx. 215-218 hp
- Rear-wheel drive
- Right-hand driving position
- The existing keeper describes the car as being in “good mechanical condition”
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions.
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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes, and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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