Highlights

• A low mileage, low owner example of this ultimate 80’s executive saloon
• In a solid and complete condition with some potential for further improvement
• Complete with a long, advisory free MOT

The Appeal

This example is specified in SE trim and is powered by the erstwhile M30 straight six 3.0L engine. This endows the 5 Series with a winning combination of performance and sensible running costs. This example retains potential for some further improvement but comes in an immediately useable condition making it the ideal rolling project car for BMW connoisseurs.

The History and Paperwork

• This E34 is a UK specified and supplied model
• The car was first registered in October 1988
• Being an SE model there is a good level standard equipment included
• The first owner went on to retain the 5 Series since 1989
• At this point the car had covered around 50,000
• During this period the car was understood to have been dry stored for around 15 years
• During its second ownership only around 1,900 miles were added
• The current owner acquired the E34 in May 2022
• Since then, a full service has been undertaken with a full fluids change
• In this instance the paperwork is limited to the current V5
• The E34 holds a current MOT valid until January 2024
• This test is free from advisories
  
  

The Interior

• The E34 was bigger than its predecessor with a noticeable increase in cabin space
• In the SE the car is equipped with a corded velour upholstery
• This creates a comfortable and luxurious ambiance
• In this example the grey velour contrasts well with the exterior livery
• The condition of the front seats appears to be excellent throughout
• These are fitted with individual folding armrests
• The rear bench is identically trimmed and in pristine condition
• A folding centre armrest is fitted as are headrests on the outer positions
• The door cards are finished in black vinyl with grey velour inserts
• On both front doors these have become partially detached and misshapen
• The original grey carpets are fitted and appear to be undamaged
• In some places they appear they would benefit from a deep clean
• The driver-centric dashboard is finished in black deformable foam
• The familiar white on black instruments are housed in a hooded binnacle
• These sit behind a sporty looking three spoke BMW steering wheel
• The centre console contains the signature trip computer
• A period looking radio cassette with built in graphic equaliser is also present
• A number of refinements like electric windows and factory sunroof are fitted
• The large boot is fitted with its original hard wearing grey carpet
• A full-sized spare alloy wheel and tyre is present beneath the boot floor
• The drop-down tool kit is mostly complete with just a couple of missing items
  
  

The Exterior

• The E34 is recognised as one of BMW’s most handsome saloon cars
• This example is finished in Arctic Silver Metallic paintwork
• The current owner advises that both bumper covers have been recently resprayed
• The rest of the car is thought to be wearing its original paintwork
• Considering this, the condition is reasonable overall
• On closer inspection there are a number of chips, scratches and minor rust spots
• In order to bring the car up to the next level a respray may be required
• The bodywork looks good, too, with no major corrosion reported
• The long period of dry storage and low mileage has seemingly helped here
• The signature quad headlamps are served with a pressurised wash system
• Light lenses and cabin glass all appear original and in good order
• All marque and model badging and designations seem present and correct
• This E34 sits on a set of BMW BBS cross spoked alloy wheels
• These are 15-inch items which exhibit a number of minor marks and chips
• The bolt disguising centre caps are all present
• These exhibit some deterioration to their central BMW emblems
• Original locking wheel nuts are fitted, and the key is present
• The wheels are shod with a matching set of Nankang tyres
• These are configured in the correct 225/60 size

The Mechanics

• This E34 is powered by the respected M30, 3L straight six petrol engine
• This was BMW’s longest produced engine and used in many models
• In original form this was rated at 185bhp and 192Ib-ft of torque
• This power is fed to the rear wheels via a four-speed ZF automatic transmission
• This combination was good for a 140mph plus top speed in original fettle
• This combination is admired for its blend of performance and economy
• The current owner reports a recent full service
• The radiator has also reportedly been replaced
• Oil, coolant and transmission fluid has been replaced
• The current owner reports that the E34 runs well 
• This is supported by an advisory free MOT
• The under-bonnet presentation looks to be highly original
• The inner panels look solid with the expected data plates and stickers present
• It would further benefit from a deep clean and detailing
• The underside of the car appears admirably solid for its vintage
• Some fluid leakage is noted (possibly transmission fluid) but may be due to a spillage
  
  

Summary