Swim Platform Bumpers: 1983 BMW E28 533i – Sold?

July 25, 2021 Update – We just confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found we’re assuming this ride “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

One of the worst regulations ever to be mandated by the U.S. Federal government was the five-mile-per-hour no damage bumper impact law. Countless otherwise great-looking cars were ruined simply by the need to install huge rubber bumper overrides or other complex systems in order to comply with the ruling.  German cars of the Malaise period were particularly susceptible to this problem, as the bumpers on this 1983 BMW 533i originally listed on Craigslist in June 2021 in Macungie, Pennsylvania (Allentown) exemplify. Reportedly a one-owner car, who we assume might even be the gentleman sitting in the car in the pictures provided, the current asking price is $5,500. Comparing that price against the Collector Car Market Review Online Tool reveals the asking price falls between this guide’s #3 “Good” estimate of $4,250 and its #2 “Very Good” appraisal of $6,100.

While here in the U.S. a BMW enthusiast who purchases this 533i will likely source and replace the original swim platform bumpers with the much cleaner looking European versions, we have a German friend who claims it’s just the opposite in his homeland as enthusiasts clamor for their Bimmers and Mercedes to look just like the cars they saw growing up on American TV shows.  Proof the grass is always greener on the other side of both sides of the pond…

Here’s the seller’s description:

“The BMW is a black 1983 533i, It is a one-owner car, and is in good condition cosmetically and mechanically. Four-door. Leather interior.“

Keep or Replace: what would you do with the swim platform bumpers on this BMW E28?  Comment below and let us know!