BMW 535i (E34)
ENGINE 3430cc/6-cyl/OHC POWER 211bhp@5700rpm TORQUE 225lb ft@4000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 141mph 0-60MPH 7.4sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 26-34mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, five-speed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 118,214 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
As we were hoping, this M30 engine has deeply impressive torque and a pleasing surge that still feels brisk compared to modern cars today, indicating it’s in rude health. There are no flat spots through the rev range and at idle the engine’s machinations remain linear. The gearshift is slick and positive (not always the case with BMWs of this vintage), and the steering is free from slop and accurate under load. The suspension is smooth and without rattles or clonks, and there are no peculiar vibrations through the steering wheel or the pedals. The brakes perform effectively, just as they should, with no tramlining under load. We didn’t experience any faults or leaks during our time with the car.
BODYWORK CHECK
This example’s Dolphin Grey paintwork is in very good condition, though there are some minor issues – stone chips on the nose, minor dents on the boot lid, a scrape on both front wings and rear quarters, and a ding on the sunroof panel. There are some rubbing marks on the front bumpers, too. Though this
list might come across as being a bit long, it isn’t much for a 31-year-old, unrestored E34. The really good news is that there’s no structural rust; the only corrosion is a little bit on the o/s front wing. The alloy wheels are in excellent condition, and they wear Michelin Pilot HX tyres with plenty of tread remaining.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
Inside, everything is well preserved and free from wear – there’s just a little bit of creasing on the driver’s seat bolster, plus a hard-wired sat nav holder that’s not particularly elegant. Happily, everything works, including the air conditioning, which blows ice-cold. One other previous owner’s addition resides in the boot – a button
booster that makes sure the boot light goes out. Again, it’s not the neatest of solutions, but an effective one nonetheless.
UNDER THE BONNET
A dip into the history reveals an interesting spec sheet with Servotronic steering, manual gearbox, and cruise control – a combination not often seen. This car also has a 7.50 limitedslip differential from an E32 7 Series. There’s a full service history pack with invoices from dealers and specialists, largely on a two-yearly appointment basis, along with every MoT the car’s had, including the Spanish equivalents accumulated during its years basking in the sun.
THE CCW VIEW
With six-cylinder E28s and E30s unlikely to decrease in value, demand for good E34s looks set to increase, thanks to impeccable BMW driving manners and classical styling. This example needs a little cosmetic TLC, but not enough to stop you enjoying it. It drives well and is nice inside – the bodywork can be easily improved at your leisure.