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Highlights
- Beautifully preserved, low mileage V8-engined E34
- Just two owners from new
- Rare and desirable 6spd manual gearbox model
- Discreet and unusual alternative to M5
- Usable daily or has the makings of a show car
The Appeal
The E34 is arguably the executive saloon that put BMW firmly on the map and took the fight right to Mercedes-Benz’ doorstep. Combining impeccable quality with the sort of dynamics you would expect from ‘the ultimate driving machine,’ there was also an E34 for virtually every kind of driver.
For those looking for M5-style thrills, but with a more luxury focus, there was the brilliant 540i. The firm’s first V8, this super-smooth saloon had the urge to match the M5 - particularly when specified with that car’s 6spd manual gearbox - yet enjoyed all the cossetting comforts and toys to entertain when then the going was less frenetic.
A big part of the 540’s appeal is that there is just a tiny boot badge giveaway that this is a 280bhp monster. So it may take you a minute to clock that the car we have here is one of those rare and sought-after V8s. It’s a two-owner car with miniscule mileage and has clearly been cared for. A further draw is its desirable specification - manual box with M Sport suspension.
This timewarp car has clearly been cared for and comes with a long MOT. Opportunities like this come along rarely and it is surely one not to miss.
The History and Paperwork
- First UK registered 3rd February 1995
- Delivered on 31st January 1995
- VIN records confirm that this car was produced on 17th January 1995
- Just two owners from new
- MOT to 28th March 2024 and has covered less than 150 miles since
- Minor MOT advisories for brake and fuel pipes, steering play, worn linkage and corrosion in front wing
- MOT records show that the car was off the road between 2011 and 2014 and then 2014 and 2020
- Thick history file including old invoices and MOTs
- Two keys with factory fobs and black BMW key
- Two rechargeable BMW torches
- Original book pack with service book
- Service book shows six dealer service stamps to 44,743 miles in 2000
- The oil, oil filter and air filter have been done for the second time during current ownership, on 5/09/2023
The Interior
- Well specified interior that is nicely preserved and appears very original
- The signs of age or wear are very limited and reflect careful ownership #
- Bison/Pergament leather interior in well preserved condition
- Leather has little wear and would likely respond well to leather treatment to improve further
- Door cards are unmarked with good veneers, leather inserts and trim fittings
- Extensive wood veneers enhance the cabin and show no visible marks or cracking
- Switchgear is unmarked with clear decals and no visible scuffs or marks
- Dashboard is similar, showing no visible marks, cracks or signs of wear
- Clear dials that all appears to work correctly
- Period correct Blaupunkt Bison stereo system
- Headlining appears to be original and is unmarked
- Til/slide manual sunroof with clean trim and lining
- High specification includes trip computer and cruise control
- Original factory first aid kit under passenger seat and full tool kit in boot
- Boot area is unmarked with clean carpets and original luggage tie straps
- Carpets throughout cabin display similar care with no visible marks or wear
- Three spoke factory steering wheel with airbag
The Exterior
- Smart Oxford Green metallic paintwork a popular mid-90s choice
- Paintwork appears to be original and in excellent condition for age
- Signs of use are very minor and include small scuff on the front nearside spoiler
- Small number of stone chips to front bumper and bonnet
- MOT advisory for front wing corrosion but this is not visible in the photographs, The corrosion has been professionally repaired at a reputable body repair shop. A replacement lower panel was welded in and all rot removed.
- LA/Flat Star five spoke ‘starfish’ alloys in superb, unmarked condition
- Michelin tyres fitted all round with good tread
- Headlamp washers
- Underside appears to be in very good condition with no issues to report
- Dealer numberplates correspond with rear window dealer sticker
- Boot drainage channels clean and with no corrosion
- Boot floor is virtually factory-fresh with no visible deterioration
- Matching spare wheel with older spare
- Strut tops in good condition
The Mechanics
- 3,982cc BMW M60B40 V8 engine developing 280bhp
- 6spd Getrag 420G manual gearbox
- M Sport suspension factory option
- Thick history file indicates carefully ownership
Summary
The E34 was a gamechanger for BMW, adding a vital ingredient to the executive car mix that the firm’s rivals often overlooked: driver engagement. Its understated capability was arguably best expressed by the 540i with its thumping V8.
With desirable manual gearbox, low mileage and few owners, this nicely specified 540i is a rare treat. Catch it while you can.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
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