Link to Bring a Trailer Auction
The last car to use the iconic twin-cam 24-valve Motorsport engine (initially designated M88 and later S38), the E34 M5 is an underappreciated classic. Today, it is one of the few still-to-be-discovered Radwood era driver’s cars. Contemporary journalists reveled in the car’s undeniably sporting ethos, especially when driven with purpose. Although it is a mid-sized sedan, its dynamic characteristics give it the soul of a sports car. Available exclusively with a manual transmission, the car is powered by an engine originally conceived for racing. Its individual throttle bodies provide a level of throttle response rarely offered in a road car of any type, let alone an executive sedan. It is an engine that thrives on revs, makes magnificent noise, and stirs the enthusiast heart more convincingly than the engines in virtually every sports car available of its day. The chassis is equally keen, and virtually every dynamic characteristic of the car shines best when the driver is in a hurry.
In less demanding use, however, the E34 M5 is a perfectly pleasant luxury car, offering a level of refinement and features that was a significant advancement over its predecessor and justified its $65,000 price. The duality of this car makes it a particularly compelling enthusiast car today, and it is deservedly the preferred M5 generation among a rabid group of enthusiasts who think of the M5 not as a fast luxury car but a luxurious sports car.
This particular example was originally sold in Canada but was imported to the United States and registered in California subsequently. It has been well maintained and thoughtfully upgraded. Modifications include 18-inch M-Parallel wheels,, a Turner Motorsport chip, Eisenmann exhaust, Eibach springs and Bilstein Sport shocks) rear wing, drilled metal pedal covers, model year 1993 type Motorsport side mirrors, a replacement head unit, and LED headlamps. Since 2019, the following maintenance work has been performed: new catalytic converter, complete suspension rebuild (bushings, links, joints), new radiator, new brakes, rebuilt MAF, stainless lines for the clutch and power steering, and new fuel filter.
Cosmetically, the car is attractive although close inspection reveals various blemishes. The panels are generally straight and rust-free, although the left rear fender has some dents and there is a single dent in the trunk lid. The paint is glossy although the car has had paintwork in the past and close inspection of the hood reveals some evidence of this work. There is also checking present on top of the rear spoiler, as well as blemishes on the bases of the mirrors.
The interior is in good condition with nice carpets, trim, and leather aside from a few small holes in the driver’s seat bolster. There is fading on the rear parcel shelf as well. As a Canadian market car, this example is well equipped with 4-place seating, ski bag, heated front seats, and headlight washers. The engine compartment and trunk are undisturbed although the spare wheel is missing.
