Highlights

Rare specification
M Sport package
36,720 on the clock
ULEZ and Clean Air Zone (CAZ) Compliant
JDM import
3-litre, automatic transmission

The Appeal

Not all saloon cars are created equal – in the late 90s and early 00s BMW were absolutely at the top of their game, creating some of the finest sporting and luxury saloon we’ve ever seen. For many of us, the E39 was, and remains, their masterwork. Smooth, subtle and stylish design with powerful engines, fantastic build quality and great handling means it remains a firm favourite amongst enthusiasts.

The 530i Sport is the one to have too – enough grunt to enjoy the phenomenal chassis dynamics, without the huge running costs of the M5. As a daily modern classic, it has few faults. However, finding a nice one can be tricky.

Fortunately, what we have here is one of the nicest examples we’ve seen. It’s a JDM import, finished in a rare and attractive specification, with low mileage. If you love a car to have the ability to be a boulevard cruiser one minute and a B-road burner the next, then this 530i could be your perfect vehicle.

The History and Paperwork

First registered in Japan in 2002
Privately imported in 2019 at 18,000 miles
Apparently the car was Grade 4.5B – the highest grade for a used car
First UK owner until 2022
Two UK owners
Original stamped Japanese service book available
The book pack is complete with both English and Japanese versions
Accompanied by both infrared keys, one blank and the original
The vendor tells us they have kept the car indoors and has used it sparingly
MOT expires March 2024
ULEZ compliant
All MOTs have zero advisories
36,720 miles on the clock

The Interior

Alcantara and fabric upholstery, all showing in excellent condition, with no damage or notable wear we could see
Coordinated grey carpet and matched floor mats, presenting in fine fettle with no stains or threading apparent
M Sport electric front seats, driver side memory function
Individual Anthracite roof lining in in lovely order, with no sagging or damage to see
Electric windows all round
Electric adjustable and folding door mirrors
Multi-function steering wheel
Rain sensing wipers
Automatic dual-zone air conditioning
Electric glass sunroof
Hi-fi loudspeaker system (radio function for UK frequency)
Satellite navigation system
Radio/cassette system with 6CD changer
Telephone preparation
The vendor tells us that everything in the cabin works perfectly, with no faults reported
The boot is commodious and presented in very fine condition, with dark grey carpet, the original toolkit, a jack and a full-size spare wheel

The Exterior

Handsome Sapphire Black Metallic paintwork looks to wear a fine gloss and deep sheen, with no significant marks, scuffs or scratches we could discern
Clean panel lines with no dents, damage or corrosion apparent
M Sport body styling package
Shadow line trim
All of the trim and badging appears in good order
The rear has been debadged for a subtle, stealthy look
Automatic xenon “halo” headlights
Headlight washers
Green top tinted windscreen
17-inch ‘Style 66’ alloy wheels look to be in very good order, with no glaring kerb damage or lacquer peel we could identify
The wheels are shod with a pair of Michelin Pilot Sport tyres to the front and a brace of Continentals to the rear

The Mechanics

2,970cc, naturally aspirated inline-six
Automatic transmission
Rear wheel drive
M Sport suspension
Power assisted steering
Anti-lock braking system

The vendor tells us that:

The car was last serviced by Autowerk (BMW specialist) in July 2022 when a drive belt, tensioner and the outside temperature sensor were all replaced
They also saw the car in 2021, 2020 and 2019 (all invoices available)
Prior to this the car was serviced in Japan (Japanese service book included)

Summary

It’s not often such a low mileage E39 comes along, let alone one in such fine condition and with a specification this attractive. Whether you’re after a new daily driver that straddles the divide of luxury and sporting intent, or want something special for weekend drives and shows, we think this 530i fits the bill perfectly.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*

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