Left Lane Express: 1991 BMW M5 – SOLD!

January 7^th, 2021 Update: We just confirmed the private seller of this ride deleted their Craigslist ad, so we’re now able to call this one “Sold!”  While this one got away, if you have your heart set on something similar, email us the details of what you’re looking for or call Rudy directly at (908)295-7330.

The BMW M5 has long been a prince of the Autobahn, a car that achieves impressive levels of speed and comfort without breaking a sweat. Among the different generations to choose from, the E34 M5 is perhaps the most muted in appearance among its Motorsports-enhanced siblings.  This 1991 BMW M5 was originally listed in October 2020 on Craigslist in Jasksonville, Florida with just two owners from new and extensive documentation for $19,500. Comparing this price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms this private seller has priced his M5 fairly against current market trends, with the guide pegging an “Excellent” model at $38,800 and a “Good” example at $21,500. 

The M5 became a movie car hero with its prominent role in the car chase classic, Ronin. One of the best features of the E34 M5 comes alive in that memorable five-minute chase scene, which is that you almost have to squint to confirm it’s a genuine M5 versus a lesser 535i or 540i. Of course, trained ears would quickly know its engine note from a mile away, as the S38 straight-six is not the kind of mill you’d confuse with the venerable M30 found in lesser six-cylinder cars. Now, like most engines of a sensuous nature, the S38 can be a fickle mistress if not maintained, and it’s still no cheap affair to look after a healthy one. But buying a car with extensive records is valuable insurance, as cheap projects will devour any savings over a good one with an insatiable appetite.

Here’s MotorWeek Review of a similar 1990 version of E34 M35 BMW:

This particular M5 is offered up for sale by the second owner in an attempt to finance a home renovation and property purchase. While the seller doesn’t provide specifics, he contends that he has replaced nearly everything that has a tendency to fail both mechanically and inside the cabin. Modifications are few and sensible, with the seller listing an upgraded Eibach/Koni suspension and a modern Pioneer headunit with hands-free capabilities. The M5 retains its original (and somewhat iconic) turbine wheels, along with factory badges and sill plates. With no engine modifications listed, this mostly-stock M5 isn’t a bargain, but if the maintenance checks out, it doesn’t have to be. Good luck with the purchase if you choose to pursue this Radwood-approved bahnstormer.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“Purchased from the original owner in 2009 and over the years have either repaired or replaced many mechanical and interior parts with documentation and or receipts for everything. As you can see the car is mostly original with the exception of the stereo (needed hands free phone) and suspension converted to Koni struts and Eibach springs. Selling due to recent home renovation and property purchase.”

Do you have a BMW M5 story you’d like to share?  Comment below and let us know!