Description
.... DEPOSIT TAKEN >>> Launched under the banner ‘Performance-Balance’ the E12 Executive ‘Five Series’ had been years in the making … from designers Paul Bracq and Marcello Gandini (Bertone) they would be assembled at the Dingolfing Plant, Bavaria. This new generation of saloons were bigger, sportier and considered superior to previous models, first seen at the Frankfurt Motor Show and visually Paul Bracq confirmed they were looking for the grille and lights to emulate a shark. This would be the first BMW to carry the series number followed by the engine capacity as a model name and over 700k across the 5 series range would be sold from 1972 to 1981. The 518 production was courtesy of the fuel crisis (even though the1800 had previously been BMW’s best seller) arriving late in 74, the last model in the five series range and boasting 1766cc four-cylinder M10 engine, OHC and a single Solex carb with RWD. A facelift followed just two years later, wider taillights and slightly raised bonnet line and would go on being produced alongside the more glamorous six-cylinder options until the end but there is no denying the 518 gave the group a foothold in the economy executive market.
As pointed out by Motor Era in its BMW 5 Series video ‘the 518 was the quiet executive saloon that deserves far more credit than it gets’
Country Classic Cars are pleased to be able to offer on behalf of the current custodian this impressive E12 BMW 518 in left hand drive. Finished in Safari Biege that was one of the last built in November 1980 and spent its early life in Torino Italy. Paperwork confirms it went on to the Netherlands in 2012 and no doubt previous owners should be complimented for the condition this 518 presents today, it’s outstanding. Factory options include the very desirable 5 speed manual transmission, sliding sunroof and comes with chrome bumpers plus standard wheels with period chrome rings.
Imported by the current owner in Feb 2021 and it was immediately MOT’d at a mileage showing 135405 klms (84140 miles) and has had very limited use since. In September of that year Walkers Autotech replaced a diff input seal to rectify a leak, replaced fuel sender unit and exhaust silencer. In Feb 2024 the rear brakes were stripped and cleaned/ adjusted @135664 klms and the battery was replaced in March 2025; the milometer currently shows 135690 klms (84314 miles).
As the images confirm the exterior presents very well but being ‘46 years young’ life will have left the odd mark and at Country Classic Cars we do look to mention both the good and bad. A small blemish under the n/ s area of the rear window is the most obvious there is also a stone chip (touch in) to the roof edge on the n/ s and the rear wheel arch also has a touch up. All the wheel arches are solid and we were impressed with the underside generally offering a condition that belies its age. Chrome polish is all the brightwork requires, bumpers are damage free and it is worth mentioning for those chasing show standard a few weekends of light cleaning duty will benefit this 518 enormously no more so than the engine bay. The body and suspension towers enjoy original paint with factory decals, the air filter housing would benefit from some satin black whilst the alloy engine rocker cover will polish to a mirror finish for those dedicated enough. The trunk also offers few signs of use and is also factory finish including the excellent BMW tool kit mounted to the boot lid.
Blue velour greets you in the cabin … and lots of it, with headrests to the front seats with original complimentary blue carpeting this interior is in great order. The manual sliding roof operates as it should, roof lining is clean whilst the driver’s door operates both central locking and mirror adjustment which performed well when tested. Rear seat belts have been fitted but there is no radio and the lack of aerial confirms there never has been, the window opening is manual and overall the interior is best described as period yet spacious and comfortable.
It is very easy to enjoy this 518, a really solid and honest example of quality German engineering that enjoys real rarity especially this side of the channel. The left-hand drive takes no time to adapt with positive assisted steering a light clutch and the optional 5 speed manual gearbox. Full choke to start from cold was soon dispensed with and the 4-cylinder motor settles nicely and certainly no land speed records will fall to the 518 it sits happily at modern traffic speeds. Prior to sale some time in our workshops will be given for an inspection and this BMW will be offered with a fresh MOT, new tyres all round, a history file with Italian and Dutch papers, import details and original dealer manuals.
For additional information please message with your email address for specific identity numbers or detailed images; we can forward the file via ‘We Transfer’ a free to use and safe service or Whats Ap if you supply your mobile phone number. Country Classic Cars operate by appointment only as our cars are often kept in secure storage although currently, we are happy to offer unhindered viewings and can arrange test drives.
