1990 BMW M5 E34 Manual
NSW • Private
151
Odometer42,500km
Body typeSedan
FuelPetrol
TransmissionManual
Comments from the seller
1990 BMW M5 (E34) | Australian Delivered | 42,459 km
Macau Blue over black Nappa leather
Complete service history – no gaps
BMW Birth Certificate, Service Books, Two original keys
Tools, Jack, Torch, Boot Net, Original Spare, Invoices
Extensive photographic record and supporting documentation available
Overview
Widely regarded as one of the finest sports sedans of its era, the E34 M5 is the last of the hand-built M cars. With its understated design, dual round headlights, and contoured but squared body this legendary super-saloon looks the part and hails from an era of proper BMW build quality. And then there's that glorious powerplant - the iconic Motorsport-derived S38 engine originating from BMW’s M1 supercar.
There were only 867 RHD E34 M5s manufactured in Garching. Finding a highly original, corrosion-free example is increasingly difficult. And to source one that has been cosseted and driven minimally yet maintained fastidiously is nigh on impossible.
Ownership and History
First registered by BMW Australia in August 1991, it passed to its first owner in April 1992. Over the next 20 years it was regularly serviced by BMW Sydney. In September 2012, having travelled 24,466 km, it was traded at BMW Sydney to a dealer / collector. In March 2016 it was acquired by its second private owner, a prominent Adelaide based car collector.
I purchased the car in December 2020, with the odometer showing 34,405 km. While it was a highly original example, I undertook a programme of rejuvenation and preventative maintenance with the objective of preserving it and ensuring it could be enjoyed with confidence.
Mechanical and Cosmetic Rejuvenation
The originality of the body was arguably the car's most appealing attribute. Nevertheless, some underside detailing was required (hot pressure washing and light dry-ice blasting) to remove years of dirt and grime. A couple of scuffed mouldings and trim items were replaced. The iconic M-System turbine wheels were refurbished. A light polish and ceramic coat application completed the package.
The air-conditioning system was completely overhauled at a cost of close to $10,000 and has blown ice cold ever since.
Suspension work included new Bilstein front shocks, rear accumulators and drop links, mounts, gaskets and shims. The car drives as if it were new.
The engine hasn’t missed a beat. These 24-valve, dual overhead cam race-bred motors, with their individual throttle bodies, are simply sublime. But it was prudent to replace hoses and belts, as well as the expansion tank. A new distributor cap and rotor were also fitted, and valve clearances were checked. Aside from that, maintenance simply consists of regular servicing and occasional use to keep the car in excellent operating condition.
The interior had sadly suffered from Australia’s harsh sun. The headliner, parcel shelf fabric and door cards were replaced, as was the dash, with a sumptuous new one. The original floor mats are in good condition, but aftermarket ones are supplied for daily use.
Flaws
There are minor chips on the bonnet and driver’s side mirror, a slight scuff on one wheel, and minor creasing on the rear centre armrest.
Summary
More than $30,000 was invested in BMW specialists fitting genuine or BMW OEM components, to rejuvenate a solid and original example with the objective of enhancing an already outstanding car.
Original items, such as the dashboard, door cards and exterior trim, and servicing parts are included in sale.
The result exemplifies the exceptional build quality of this era of BMW. All switches, knobs and instruments retain a remarkably fresh feel, the leather remains soft and in excellent condition, and the body panels retain their excellent alignment and fit.
With exceptionally low mileage, comprehensive service history and extensive supporting documentation, this represents a compelling opportunity to acquire a highly original example of one of BMW's most celebrated M cars.
Car details
øVehicle description
E34 Sedan 4dr Man 5sp 3.5i
Powerplant type
Internal Combustion Engine (ICE)
Cost to insureSponsored
Exterior colour
Blue
Interior colour
Black
Body type
Sedan, 4 doors, 5 seats
Transmission
5 speed Manual
Engine
6 cylinders, Petrol Aspirated, 3.5L
Cost of finance
Registration plate
Check with seller
Registration expiry
3 months/February 2027
Build date
June 1990
Compliance date
February 1991
Cost to transportSponsored
Roadworthy certificate
Provided at pick-up by seller
carsales Network ID
SSE-AD-21129990
Audio, Visual & Communication
CD / DVD
CD player
Premium
Sound system
Radio
Radio cassette
Safety & Security
Airbags
Driver
Vehicle control
ABS (antilock brakes)
Security
Central locking
Comfort & Convenience
Climate
Climate control
Driving
Cruise control
Lights & Windows
Lights
Fog lamps - front
Power windows
Front & rear
Seating
Electric seats
Drivers with memory
Headrests
Integrated 2nd row
Instruments & Controls
Display
On-board computer
Gauges
Tacho
Exterior
Body coloured
Bumpers
Mirrors
Electric
Paint
Metallic
Spoilers
Body kit - F&R spoilers, skirts, rear apron
Sunroof
Electric
Transmission & Drivetrain
Differential
Limited slip diff
Steering
Performance
Steering wheel - sports
Power steering
Power steering
Brakes
Front
Ventilated
Rear
Ventilated
Wheels & Tyres
Rim material
Alloy wheels
Rims
17" alloy wheels
Fuel
E10
Fuel Type
Petrol - Unleaded ULP
Fuel Capacity
90L
RON Rating
91
Fuel Delivery
Multi-Point Injection
Method of Delivery
Electronic
Fuel Consumption Highway‡
9.1L/100km
Fuel Consumption City‡
19.3L/100km
Fuel Maximum Distance
989km
Fuel Minimum Distance
466km
Safety & Security
Number of Airbags
1
Engine
Engine type
Piston
Engine Location
Front
Engine Size (cc)
3535cc
Engine Size (L)
3.5L
Induction
Aspirated
Engine Configuration
In-line
Cylinders
6
Camshaft
Double Overhead Cam
Valves/Ports per Cylinder
4
Compression ratio
10
Generic Engine Type
Piston
Power
235kW
Power rpm To
6900rpm
Torque
360Nm
Torque rpm To
4750rpm
Power to Weight Ratio
140.7kW/t
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.4s
Transmission & Drivetrain
Gears
5
Gear Type
Manual
Gear Location
Floor
Drive
Rear Wheel Drive
Steering
Steering
Recirculating Ball
Wheels & Tyres
Rim Material
Alloy
Front Rim Description
17x8.0
Rear Rim Description
17x8.0
Front Tyre Description
235/45 R17
Rear Tyre Description
235/45 R17
Dimensions & Weights
Length
4720mm
Width
1751mm
Height
1384mm
Wheelbase
2761mm
Track Front
1474mm
Track Rear
1496mm
Kerb Weight
1670kg
Other
Country of Origin
GERMANY
Launched
August 1990
Generation Name
E34
Series
E34
Badge
(No Badge)
Doors
4
Seat Capacity
5
Body Style
Sedan
Probationary plate status +
Australian Capital Territory
Approved
Western Australia
Approved
Northern Territory
Approved
Tasmania
Approved
New South Wales
Banned
Victoria
Banned
Queensland
Banned
South Australia
Banned
Vehicle history report
Written off or stolen
Finance owing
Rego validation
Odometer discrepancies
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Estimated cost before offer
$115,345Excl. Govt. Charges
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Expert car reviews on BMW M5
ø Specifications have been sourced from Automotive Data Services Pty Ltd (Redbook) and are based on manufacturer standard features and specifications, some of which may require subscription. Actual features and specifications for this vehicle may differ. Please confirm these details with the seller.
‡ This is an estimated figure calculated with reference to ADR 81/02 and is made on the assumption the vehicle is at maximum factory fuel/energy capacity. It does not take into account factors such as individual driving habits, terrains and driving conditions which may vary depending on the driver and the vehicle.
+ P-Plate approval status is provided as a guide only, using data sourced from a variety of government and industry based sources. You should verify the status of the vehicle with relevant state / territory authorities and the vehicle manufacturer / authorised agent. carsales is not liable for any loss or damages (other than in respect of any liability which may not lawfully be excluded) relating to your use of, or reliance on, data contained on this site. By using this site you acknowledge that you use the information subject to the terms of the above disclaimer and notice.
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