The E28 5 Series was BMW's first model to convince Australians that BMW flair could be enjoyed with quality and prestige approaching Mercedes-Benz levels. Joe Kenwright looks at the turning point in BMW's local history
HISTORY
The first 5 Series was winning Australian hearts until a humiliating comparison with Holden's RTS Kingswood and poor preparation for local conditions placed BMW's local ambitions on hold. Although it looked similar, the E28 was all new and a quantum leap forward after it picked up 7 Series suspension, cabin and drivetrain advances. It led a golden period in car design with spacious and airy cabin, outstanding vision, decent boot and outstanding body protection. Backed by sound engineering, it delivered crash safety levels 20 years ahead of its time. Launched as the 528i in 1982 followed by the 520i in March 1983, Australia's switch to unleaded fuel forced a mid-life switch to the 525e and 535i from 1986.
PRICES
The highly sought after 1986-88 M535i will still fetch over $13,000 in good original condition. Starting price for a top 535i is $10,000 while the 520i, 525e and 528i span the $4-8,000 range. After subtracting the cost of every outstanding repair, some examples may not be worth anything even if they present well.
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