The BMW E28 is not just any car; it is the second generation of BMW's iconic 5-series. Produced from 1981 to 1987, the E28 distinguished itself with its sharp lines and its – now legendary – "shark nose". Less mean than its predecessor, the E12, but at least as elegant. The six-cylinder engines in particular are known as gems among the power sources.
The E28 was built in Germany and South Africa, with a total of 722.328 units. This series of cars has acquired cult status among car enthusiasts. Take Bart Wolfswinkel, the proud owner of a white 535i. This BMW replaced his beloved Porsche 944, which was unfortunately stolen (a tip for classic car enthusiasts: be careful, theft can happen very easily!).
A real car man's dream
Bart's 535i is of German origin and was a “Rentnerwagen” – a luxury retirement car. The first owner chose almost every option, including the discreet omission of the type designation on the boot lid. The straight-six, with 316.000 kilometers on the counter, has retained its character: a delicious 3,5-liter engine with low compression and 192 hp, ready to cruise on unleaded RON 91 petrol. Under the smooth AlpineWeiss paint, which shines again thanks to an extensive restoration, lies a robust, lively engine.
The perfect engine room
In the “engine room” you can find all sorts of updates: a new crankshaft seal, renewed timing belts, and a freshly overhauled gearbox. As for the exhaust sound: thanks to custom EPS, this BMW sounds wonderfully full and characterful, without tiring your ears. In addition, the brakes of an E34 have been fitted – a clear upgrade.
The driver feeling
An E28 is for purists, without unnecessary gadgets. Think of a real driver's car where ABS and a limited slip differential (25%) are the only "helpers". No airbags, no electronics to get in your way. Just pure driving pleasure, with a musical six-cylinder that is begging to be played.
Conclusion
The BMW E28 535i is an iconic classic. Dynamic, elegant and built for the purist who still wants to drive himself, without electronic "control guys". Bart's pride and joy has an estimated value of around twenty grand - a reflection of the passion and care that has been put into this car.
Want to read more? The complete story about Bart and his 535i can be found in the October issue of Auto Motor Klassiek, now available at the kiosk!
I bought a 1996 1983i in 518. With low mileage and 4 new 14″ Michelins. Coincidentally I ran into the seller today. I also had a white one but with the smallest engine. Coming from an Opel Astra 1.6 D with 53 hp or so this was an upgrade. It was just an old car then, which served me well between two company cars.
The model has aged beautifully. You want to be seen in that. That's the case with most BMWs I think: after a few years there always comes a time when they are "wrong" because so much wrong tuning (in my opinion) is unleashed on them. After a few more years the original copies are still there and... just beautiful.
The 6 cylinders of BMW are indeed real gems. But realize that 6 cylinder inline engines are actually all those silky smooth running gems because of the inherent perfect balance. That is also the reason why a V12 is such a jewel. That is namely the result of two 'in real life connected' V6 engines. One of the famous examples of this is the Rolls Royce Merlin. But also the Daimler-Benz DB601. Both workhorses of fighter planes and bombers in WW II. And there are a few more.
Phew…what a beautiful car!!
Once had a 323i, still regret selling it.
@Bart: enjoy and cherish this car!
If you ever want to get rid of it..
Beautiful car. I had one too, a 2.8. I don't think the car has a timing belt, but a chain.
Sharknose is imitated from GM. Beautiful in its simplicity. Better than more of the same nowadays, not to mention the "driving style" nowadays!