BMW E34 M5 – celebrity owner

BMW E34 M5 3.8 5sp

The E34 M5 is one of the true legends of the M division. The last of the analogue M5s with its M88-derived engine (handed through the generations from the original M1) in its ultimate incarnation, the S38B38, the E34 M5 had received a mid-life upgrade from the 3.6 S38B36-powered version, to the 3.8, which massively improved performance, upped to an impressive 335bhp with 400Nm of torque. The E34 M5 was the last M5 to have a hand-built engine, with a mechanical throttle.

But there was so much more to the E34 M5 than just the engine. With adjustable EDC, the car’s handling was on another level compared to the E28 M5, equipment and comfort levels were updated without losing that raw feel – in fact that is what makes the E34 M5 so special. Although clothed in a cloak of respectability – arguably the E34 range sported a more refined look compared to the earlier car – there is no missing the fact that this is basically a respectable saloon with a full-on race engine shoe-horned under the bonnet. Elegant and well equipped, then, but with a hugely capable, raucous, motorsport derived powerplant and supercar levels of handling and performance, which helped establish the M5 as the iconic, benchmark super saloon. There were great M5s before the E34 and after, but the E34 is arguably the model that cemented the Legend.

Over the years the E34 M5 suffered from low values – the running and ongoing care costs seemed difficult to reconcile with the eventual residuals. As a result, it is one of the rarest cars we deal with. The number of ‘good’ ones out there? Hard to say accurately, but if what we see in terms of our workshop is any indication, super low.

This E34 M5 comes with its own touch of celebrity glamour. Sourced by us upon request for Radio 1 star DJ and TV host Greg James, it also featured in Youtuber Jonny Smith’s show, with Greg behind the wheel talking about his love of cars. We loved this car when we found it, and Greg has invested considerable money in all the right areas – the EDC has recently been overhauled completely, and the car is in even better condition now that when we first inspected it.

Despite our knowledge and love of this M5, our technical team have carried out the usual rigorous inspection, and are delighted with the result. This is one of those rare beasts – an E34 M5 that would fit elegantly into any worthy collection, but is useable, showable, and very, very drivable.

For more information on this fabulous icon of sports motoring, or to book a viewing (by appointment only) please contact our showroom team.