1987 BMW 5 Series M535i review from UK and Ireland

New water pump last summer.

Minor welding needed at last MOT.

I've always fancied one of these cars and took the plunge on one last March (2006). It had been stored for a couple of years, yet managed the 180 mile journey home without any issues at all.

I love the character of the car, its not massively quick by modern standards, but by no means embarrasses itself against newer cars. The dog-leg manual sports box takes some getting used to and to be honest I think its not needed with the thumping torque of the 3.5 six. Ah yes. The BMW M30 straight six. What a glorious engine! It's a truly wonderful "heart" of the car, with its effortless pull and muted growl. You find yourself just blipping the throttle at the lights to hear it bark!

Interior is comfortable, and wearing well. Heater valve has packed up, but you can still get the cabin nice and warm by adjusting the vents. Dash instruments have also died, but that's a common e28 fault.

Bad points? The most obvious is the the fuel consumption! I'm getting around 21mpg, which ain't great. Also, some rust is beginning to show throw underneath the car. If I decide to keep her, I'll spend the money and get it sorted.