1991 BMW M5

Immortalised in the car chase from the 1998 film 'Ronin', the BMW E34 M5 was hand-built. It was assembled by a single M employee or a team of M employees and was the last M cars to be produced in this way. The engines were also built by hand by BMW M engineers, unlike any of the BMW M models since. Less than 400 E34 M5's of this type were imported and this is the only one remaining in this standard, original condition.

This M5 is an original and unmodified 1991 model finished in Macau Blue (M Sport dark purple) Metallic with grey half-leather M Sport cloth. The last owner had the car for 17 years and it has been garaged all of its life. Described as in "time-warp' condition throughout, the car retains all of its original panels and trim, even down to the genuine BMW tool kit, rechargeable torch, first aid kit and spare keys. Even the original delivery wax is still present in the engine bay and there is no evidence of rust or dents and everything on the car functions as it should.

With only 110,000 miles and fully documented service history file, this car has details of all the expenditure over its life with old bills, receipts and MOT certificates. More recently, the old exhaust needed renewing and it was replaced by a stainless steel unit, which will last longer than an original. It has just completed its last service 100 miles ago using the correct 10W 60 Mobil 1 racing oil.

Standard M5 specification includes original 17" Turbine style 2 piece alloy wheels (these are the original wheels fitted to the 3.6 models, contrary to some reports), comprehensive trip computer, electric windows, ABS, power steering, sports seats, front fog lights, central locking, a limited-slip differential (LSD) and the original three-spoke M-Technic II steering wheel. Desirable Factory options include Satin chrome Shadow Line exterior trim, electric sliding/vent sunroof, rear spoiler, fully electric driver and passenger seats, air conditioning, cruise control, interior light pack, improved alternator, headlight power wash and wider 9Jx17 rear wheels.

The only nods to modernity are the Cat 1 total closure alarm system and Tracker and the Premium Alpine sound system incorporating Bluetooth and USB port. The originally supplied stereo is included in the sale. A usable, fast, fun, very rare and appreciating classic that is one of only 100 or-so left only the road (most of which have been interfered with in some way). This M5 is one of the very best original models left in existence and would be a great addition to any collection in this, BMW M Division's 40th anniversary year.