Highlights

Very well kept factory-standard E12
Attractive silver metallic with blue velour
Lots of recent work advised by seller
Only three keepers reported
Current Revisione valid to 2027

The Appeal

The E12 launched and has henceforth defined what BMW’s 5 Series executive saloon was all about. Crisply styled with input from Marcello Gandini, it brought agile, entertaining motoring to the executive sector.

Good survivors are in surprisingly short supply, particularly factory-standard, unmodified ones like this ‘74 520. Equipped with the robust M20 2L engine and twin Strombergs, it also features a desirable manual transmission. The silver paintwork and blue velour interior are remarkably preserved, showing barely any signs of this car’s 51 years.

The vendor tells us that he is the third keeper and has recently paid for lots of work on the car. He rates the condition highly across all mechanical, exterior, and interior aspects, which the photographs support. The engine bay is particularly well presented. His view is supported by a current Revisione which was renewed in 2025 and runs to 2027.

This E12 offers the buyer a rare, stylish and very usable classic saloon.

History and Paperwork

First registered 1974
Vendor reports 3 registered keepers including the current keeper
Purchased by the current owner approximately two years ago
Revisione renewed in 2025 and reported to be valid until 2027
Registration document
1 set of keys
Factory handbooks as shown with wallet

The Condition

Very well presented car in silver metallic with few indications of age
Due to the age of the car buyers should be realistic on condition
Bodywork presents well with flush panels and well kept arches and sills
Underside can be inspected in photos
Factory standard car with steel wheels with chrome hub caps
Blue velour interior in very good order showing few indications of age
Door cards and dashboard in good order as can be checked in photos
Blue carpets through cabin and vinyl trim to boot area

The Mechanics

2L M20 4cyl BMW engine
Twin Stromberg carburettors
Manual gearbox
Odometer shows 256,000 km
The vendor states the vehicle "functions very well"
Numerous mechanical issues have been addressed since purchase two years ago
Factory tools as shown
Very tidy engine bay as shown

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..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ 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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