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BMW M5 E28

1981–1988 · Sedan
Engine
3.5L 6-cyl · Petrol
Power
286 HP
Torque
340 Nm
Transmission
MANUAL
Drive
RWD
0-100 km/h
6.5 sec
Top Speed
245 km/h
Fuel consumption
11.3 L/100km
Body
Sedan
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Model overview

A rewarding but preservation-intensive classic sports saloon. Condition, corrosion control and documented mechanical care matter more than age or mileage alone.

Pros

  • Practical four-door performance car
  • Engaging rear-drive chassis
  • Characterful naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine

Cons

  • Rust and restoration quality vary widely
  • Ageing electrical and trim parts
  • Specialist maintenance can be costly

Common problems & ownership concerns

Potential impact: Low · Medium · High. This describes possible consequences, not fault likelihood.

  • Structural and body corrosionHigh
  • Ageing electrical and trim componentsMedium
  • Suspension, steering and brake wearMedium

Maintenance

Follow the market-specific schedule and verify documented cooling, belt, fluid, brake and suspension servicing.

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Engine overview · 3.5L 6-cyl PETROL

A characterful naturally aspirated six-cylinder M5 engine application, but age and maintenance history are central to ownership. Specialist inspection is sensible because timing, cooling, fuel and electrical systems can all reflect long-term deterioration.

Pros

  • Strong naturally aspirated six-cylinder character.

Cons

  • Age-related component deterioration.
  • Specialist servicing may be required.
  • Recommissioning can be costly after storage.

Common problems & ownership concerns

Potential impact: Low · Medium · High. This describes possible consequences, not fault likelihood.

  • Timing-chain and tensioner wearHigh
  • Cooling-system ageingHigh
  • Oil leaks and gasket deteriorationMedium
  • Fuel-injection and electrical ageingMedium

Maintenance

Follow the VIN-specific BMW schedule and lubricant specification, with particular attention to documented timing-drive, cooling-system and fuel-system maintenance.

These are general ownership concerns, not a diagnosis. Equipment and engine details vary by version and production date.

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