1993 BMW E34 M5 – Project Profile

Being lifelong fans of BMW’s revered M5 super saloon, in any guise, it’s always exciting when we see one come up for sale in our classified adverts or on our auctions platform, especially when the words “no reserve” are tagged on to the listing, as is the case with this particular E34 M5. We more than idly start thinking about how logistically we could fit the thing into our garage should we buy it, how much it would cost to run and whether or not we could justify yet another car in the fleet. That’s the allure of these cars, you see. They instantly flick a switch in our brains, begging us to hand over our hard earned and scratch that M-badge itch that still rages like a particularly stubborn rash even after all these years and even after having actually owned one – an E39 M5 – in the past.

Debuting in 1988, the first E34 M5 models were fitted with a 3.6-litre six-cylinder which produced a spicy enough 310 brake horsepower but four years later BMW decided to increase displacement to 3.8-litres, subsequently hiking the engine’s power output by an extra 25 galloping stallions, so if outright power is your thing then these later models, like this 1993 example, are the ones to have. The last of the M5s to feature a six-pot motor the E34 epitomises the fast saloon cars of the ’90s, with plenty of performance, acres of space and driving dynamics to make a lot of modern performance cars bow their heads in deference the E34 M5 is still an exciting and practical proposition.

What is it?

As mentioned, this E34 M5 is a later example with the larger engine and more grunt. Presented in Avus Blue Metallic paint that has been refreshed in the past the car has covered 140,000 miles. Featuring a five-speed manual gearbox and the iconic “throwing star” wheels it certainly has a lot going for it and has had a huge amount of work already carried out, most notably a refurbished fuel tank and extensive, high quality repairs to the floorpans, inner and outer sill areas, bulkhead and jacking points. It is now time, however, for the next owner to continue the project and see it back to its former Autobahn annihilating glory.

Why is it a project? 

While this E34 M5 may look a little down at heel the bulk of the exterior work has already been completed with help from the sparkly stick, as mentioned above. Yes there are a few areas of mild corrosion yet to deal with and some trim parts need reattaching but these are small fry issues in the grand scheme of things. The main point of contention with this car is the mechanical bits and pieces. The engine does apparently run well and shows good oil pressure but an electrical fault, believed to be an earth wiring gremlin in the passenger footwell, causes intermittent starting problems. Not only that but a new clutch slave cylinder will also have to be installed. The car hasn’t been driven for a few years and so a complete mechanical overhaul and full service would likely be required. Despite its saloon car cruiser credentials this is, after all, a performance machine.

Five things to look for:

1) Engine

BMW’s S38B38 is a robust powerplant, if properly maintained, but to ensure those 340 horses haven’t all bolted the six-cylinder engine will need a refresh. Begin by carrying out a compression test to determine its overall health. It does start and run so check for any smoking or rattling (potential timing chain tensioner issues) from the motor. With a lack of history we don’t know how regularly the car was serviced so keep your eyes peeled for signs of bore wear and any evidence of overheating.

2) Chassis and Welding

Money has been spent here but check the quality of the workmanship. Have the repairs been carried out to a high standard and is there anything left to do? Check the car is straight and that all of the panel gaps are even. If not it could indicate a shunt.

3) Bodywork

There are some not insubstantial blemishes on the car, including a dent in the nearside front wing and a deep scratch on the offside rear D-pillar. There is also some corrosion to the inside of the door bottoms that will need addressing but overall the car presents pretty well, partly thanks to a respray in the past. Some small repairs and a paint correction may be all that’s required here.

4) Suspension and Brakes

With its rear self-levelling suspension leaking dampers as well as the hydraulic lines can be a problem so check everything is dry and level. Check all of the bushes and ball joints too – if they’re worn the handling will be noticeably compromised. Braking components are easy to come by but pay attention to the condition of the hard lines as replacing them is a pain in the proverbial.

5) Interior and Parts

The E34’s interior is generally hard wearing and this particular car doesn’t appear to contradict that statement. A thorough clean would likely see you straight and although some minor trim pieces are missing the car is complete and all parts are supplied ready for reassembly. We would still advise double checking everything is present and correct and that all of the electrics work before driving off though.

What should you do with it? 

With no reserve there’s the possibility here for a performance bargain, but that’s not to say you won’t potentially have your hands full. Ensure the mechanical bits and pieces, especially the engine, are performing as they should before turning your attention to the body. Sort the rust and repair the dings then get the paint professionally corrected. If the prior painter is worth their salt then it should come up a treat. After all that you’ll be the proud owner of one of Bavaria’s finest in arguably the best spec so get bidding.