M5
The first M5. Motorsport engineering in a discreet sedan.
1985 European 286 PS specification · Factory source
Every figure, in one place.
Performance
- Power
- 286 PS · 282 hp · 210 kW
- Torque
- 340 Nm
- 0–100 km/h
- 6.5 s
- Top speed
- 245 km/h
- Power-to-weight
- 5.00 kg/PS
Engine and drivetrain
- Engine
- M88/3 · Inline-six
- Displacement
- 3,453 cm³
- Induction
- Naturally aspirated
- Gearbox
- 5-speed manual
- Drivetrain
- Rear-wheel drive
- Powertrain
- Petrol
Body and dimensions
- Production
- 1985–1988
- Body
- Sedan
- Length
- 4,620 mm
- Width
- 1,700 mm
- Height
- 1,397 mm
- Wheelbase
- 2,625 mm
- Kerb weight
- 1,430 kg
- Fuel tank
- 70 L
Where this car ranks across all 93 cars in the catalogue.
Know before you buy
- Rust in sills, floors and arches is the main concern
- Parts are scarce; originality affects value
- Specialist servicing and valve adjustment required
Commonly reported ownership points, not a guarantee of faults. Always get an independent inspection.
The early super-saloon recipe.
The E28 M5 uses the M88/3 straight-six in a four-door 5 Series body. It is an early example of the engine-and-practicality combination that defines the M5 family.
The roots of the M5 idea.
A classic saloon needs a body and mechanical inspection together.
M88/3 is also represented here in the M635CSi coupé.
M88/3 · Inline-six
M88/3 museum engine, exhaust side. Installation differs between the M5 and M635CSi.
M88/3 · Petrol
The first M5 adapts the M1-derived, 3,453 cm³ six-cylinder to a four-door sedan. The European M88/3 uses natural aspiration and a four-valve cylinder head.
Natural aspiration
Intake air enters without a turbocharger. Engine breathing, valve timing and engine speed shape the way torque builds.
Rear-wheel drive
A five-speed manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive complete the original M5 formula. The North American S38-powered model has a different factory output.
1985 European 286 PS specification
Power and torque above describe engine output for this specific factory specification. PS means metric horsepower; hp is used for US-rated output. Other model years and markets can differ. Open the BMW factory source for the original specification.
The full specification.
Ownership and buying
- Buying tips
- A classic saloon needs a body and mechanical inspection together.
- Maintenance notes
- Match the engine code and VIN to the correct BMW service schedule. Ask for dated maintenance records and an independent inspection before buying.
Related cars
Photo credits
- BMW M5 E28.jpg — Jaredtown · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Original