Highlights
- Very rare 365bhp 4.8 N62 V8 model in very good condition
- Well-maintained with full service history and other work to 95,000 miles
- Just serviced, including oil change, spark plugs, drive belts and filters
- Valve stem oil seals, rocker and timing gaskets within last few thousand miles
- Specialist gearbox service at 91,000 miles including valve body replacement
- Advisory-free MOT to July 2026
- Well-preserved example of these very quick E53s
The Appeal
Such was its popularity and its continuing durability that the E53 is a common sight. This 4.8iS model, however, certainly isn’t. Launched in 2004, only a handful were sold here, and just 18 are recorded as UK road registered.
That is a surprise, because the 365bhp N62 V8 engine is perfectly suited to exploit the excellent E53 chassis. This Sterling Grey metallic model, built in the 4.8iS launch year, is likely one of the best of those survivors because it has been so well looked after. You can see what we mean in the photos.
It has covered few miles for its age and wears its 21 years extremely lightly. It carries a high specification including panoramic roof, electric front seats with memory, high-end sound system, factory TV, navigation and upgraded Walknappa Schwarz leather.
The current keeper acquired the car in 2011 and is selling it very reluctantly due to a change of circumstances. He has continued to maintain it to a genuinely impressive level. Alongside regular servicing, most recently at 95,000 miles, the gearbox was serviced recently including valve body. The valve stem oil seals, rocker and timing gaskets have also been replaced.
Perhaps not surprisingly, it comes to market with a lengthy, advisory-free MOT. You could buy a V8 Range Rover or even a Cayenne, but would you really want to? This E53 is a properly exclusive, highly understated and very rare V8 SUV.
The vendor says:
“Overall it is a pleasure to drive with 365bhp available. The V8 engine sounds amazing, it is also very quick and I shall be very sorry to see it go.”
History and Paperwork
- First registered 6th December 2004
- Six registered keepers
- Current keeper since April 2011
- Current MOT with no advisories, valid until 17th July 2026
- Comprehensive service history with main dealer stamps up to 64,000 miles
- BMW specialist service history up to 81,000 miles
- Further servicing to 95,000 miles detailed below and in photos
- Gearbox serviced by a specialist at 91,000 miles including valve body replacement
- Engine valve stem oil seals, rocker and timing cover gaskets replaced at 95,000 miles
- Invoices available for specialist work and shown in photos
- Supplied with 2 keys
- Original handbooks and wallet
- Recently had oil change, replacement spark plugs, drive belts and filters
- V5C in current keeper’s name
- Various spares as shown in photos
- Old MOTs shown in photos
The Condition
- Original Sterling Grey metallic paintwork presents very well with few indications of age
- Paintwork shows a few minor stone chips on the bonnet
- There is a small dent on the rear nearside door
- Bonnet vents have flaking paint, but new genuine BMW replacements included
- Bodywork in very good order as shown in photos
- Factory fitted with front and rear diffusers and also features side steps
- 7 spoke alloy wheels present well as shown in photos but with poor centre caps
- Genuine replacement BMW wheel centre caps included
- Underside appears in good order with no structural advisories on MOT
- Walknappa Schwarz leather interior has clearly been cared for and presents well
- Leather has light age to the driver’s seat and minor mark on the driver's door armrest
- All switches, instruments and lights are in working order we are told
- New genuine BMW interior mats (still unopened) will be supplied with the vehicle
- Bluetooth telephone function requires reprogramming by a specialist
- Tyres all appear in good condition
- Specification includes factory navigation and panoramic roof
- Electric front seats with heating and memory
The Mechanics
- N62 4,799cc V8 engine producing 365bhp
- 6spd automatic transmission
- Full service history to 95,000 miles, mainly by dealers and specialists
- Appears in good mechanical condition with no known faults we are told
- Recently fitted with a new battery
- Has been connected to a trickle charger when not in use
- Gearbox serviced by a specialist at 91,000 miles, including valve body
- Valve stem oil seals, rocker and timing cover gaskets replaced at 95,000 miles
- Recently had an oil change, replacement spark plugs, drive belts and filters
- No advisories on current MOT
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