BMW sent shockwaves through the entire car industry in 1999 when it launched its first SUV. The X5 was one of the first premium off-roaders, a car that would set a substantial precedent for the entire market.
Most manufacturers followed suit, but the X5 was one of the first truly luxurious SUVs this side of a Range Rover.
Today, those early X5s are on the cusp of becoming quite collectable, their contribution to the car industry widely recognised. And if you want one as a future investment – or, indeed, as a high-performance modern classic with a commanding driving position – then the range-topping 4.4i V8 is the one to have. With 286bhp and a 0-60 time to rival most executive saloons, it’s a fine way to travel.
Good first-generation X5s are getting fewer and farther between, which makes this example a bit of a find – especially in desirable 4.4i Sport trim.
It’s in very good overall condition and is a smart low-mileage example with an exceptional interior, good bodywork and in seemingly good mechanical order, while the LPG system should help to keep running costs down. The perfect all-weather future classic.
The History and Paperwork
Original manuals and owner wallet
UK V5C
Service history to 77,664 miles
Lots of main dealer and independent invoices
Handbook
BMW dealer booklets and audio guide
Number of old MOT certificates and supporting receipts
Four owners from new, last keeper for nine years
MOT valid until December 2024
The car was initially sold by Vines of Gatwick BMW dealer on the 28th September 2005 - which would have been quite a hefty price tag of just under 65k. It was then serviced by Vines of Gatwick BMW dealer on the 19th June 2007 at 20,324miles, then on 29th August 2007 also by Vines of Gatwick BMW dealer, this was followed by another service by Vines of Gatwick BMW dealer on 2nd November at 38,713.
This care and meticulous attention transferred to Stephen James BMW in Enfield where it was serviced on 4th April 2012 at 50,092. Since then it has gone to the well-known BMW and German car Specialist L & R Motor Engineers which were Established in 1979 in the West side of London. The services that were carried out are as follows: 16th February 2015 at 65,355, then on 19th November 2015 at 67,250, then at 21st October 2016 at 69,296, followed by another service on 20th October 2017 at 72,202, with the last service carried out just under 5,000 miles ago.
The MOT history is also exemplary with hardly any MOT advisories since birth illustrating the love and affection this machine has received in it life.
The folder also contains invoices of work and services at 45,967 miles from a BMW main agent at a cost of £269.36. Another from a BMW main agent at 50,092 miles for the sum of £451.27. Another at 50,351 for the sum of £1014.41. Another on 50,092 again from BMW main agent for the sum of £251.21. Another from 52,505 for the sum of £340.13 at BMW main Agent. Another from 58,004 for £450. Another from 65,355 miles totalling to £132.46. Another from 64,716 miles totalling to £1,803.31. Another in invoice of works and service from 64,688 miles for £396.
This totals to just over £5,100's of invoices - this is from those that are present not to mention many other services that are recorded that invoices may have been mislaid.
Minor marks and paint defects but nothing of any concern
Premium charcoal leather
Wood-effect inserts
Original BMW nav/stereo (not functional at time of photos)
Electrically adjustable memory seats
Very good order
No visible seat bolster wear
Immaculate leather-rimmed steering wheel
Twin panoramic sunroofs
Full-size spare wheel
CD changer unit
Original jack and toolkit
BMW phone mount
Rear privacy glass
The Mechanics
4.4-litre V8
Professionally installed LPG conversion – dual-fuel and will run on petrol too
Six-speed automatic gearbox
Permanent 4WD
Very good under-bonnet presentation
Drives well with no known faults or untoward noises
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:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ This vehicle is subject to third-party financing. The seller will clear all financing debts and associated costs on sale.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
