1980 BMW M 535i

The BMW E12 M535i, was the first series model from BMW Motorsport and was the start of a new type of vehicle. The BMW E12 M535i brought sport into the top class.

This automobile was a premiere for BMW M and at the same time the start of a success story: In 1979, the BMW M535i became the first vehicle produced in series from BMW M, back then still BMW Motorsport. The specialist press and customers received the strongest BMW E12 5 series with something approaching euphoria, coining phrases like “M for Muscles” or “The Bavarian Power Station”.

The engine in the BMW M535i is based on that of the BMW M1. The 3.5l straight six-cylinder motor of the most powerful E12 5 series has the potency to match: 160 kW (218 hp) and 310 Nm.

With this performance and weighing just 1,430 kilos, the BMW M535i achieved pretty impressive statistics for its time. To get from 0 to 100 km/h, the limousine took just 7,5 seconds and the top speed was 222 km/h. In 1980, German car magazine auto motor und sport reported some even more impressive figures: In their test, the M535i took only 7.0 seconds to reach 100 km/h from a standing start and the top speed was an astonishing 228 km/h.

Because peak output is already available at 5,200 rpm and maximum torque achieved at 4,000 rpm, the 5 series was in a position to leave even greater-capacity 8-cylinder engines in its wake.

With a production number of 1650 units in total and only 960 in LHD, this unique BMW M535i is a classic on its own.

The car we have on offer is a genuine M535i that has been completely rebuilt to original spec. The tasteful colour combination of Jadegrün with yellow headlights and gold BBS-alloys gives the car a unique appearance. The car is equipped with a brand new stainless steel exhaust line, including sports manifold.

The car is in perfect condition and is ready to hit the road for any distance.