The idea of the sports sedan has existed since the 1950s with small, nimble cars built to tackle the narrow post-war European roads, and built by the likes of Alfa Romeo. Then in the 1960s American muscle sedans offered big V8-powered sedans in a raw, unrefined package, after that the 70s saw, fast, cushy, Autobahn-crushing sedans produced by Mercedes. But, it wasn't until the BMW M5 debuted in 1984 that a company produced a car that could hang with a Porsche 911 in the corners, while also walking away from it on the straightaways, all while carrying 4 passengers and their luggage in comfort. Perhaps the most well-rounded car on sale, the M5 sported few visual differences from the standard E28 5-Series but packed a drivetrain that was developed using lessons learned by BMW Motorsports on the track.

This 1987 BMW M5 was built in March of 1987 and is finished in the only color combination available for the E28 M5 in the US, black over a tan leather interior. The total production run for this M5 worldwide was just 2,241 units and less than 1,250 of those made their way to the United States. The only modifications on this example are a newer set of 17” BBS wheels that offer a much better selection of modern tires and a set of European market headlights. Overall, the condition of this car is very good- the black paint shines and shows off the remarkably straight panels.

The whole interior is finished in tan leather, including the door cards and center console. This leather is notorious for wearing and both front seats have been reupholstered in matching leather with the requisite “M Stripe” badging on the backrests. Given that the M5 was a top-of-the-line car when new, it is equipped with full power seats including thigh bolsters and headrests, power windows, and an onboard computer that gives information on fuel economy, average speed, miles to empty, and more. Over the years, this car has received an updated Pioneer head unit and a modern weighted BMW M shift knob that offers a great, positive shift feel while still looking original. The 3-spoke M-Sport steering wheel is one of the best to ever come out of BMW, with a tremendously simple look, this wheel transmits great feedback and a sporty steering feel to the driver, letting you know what the car is doing at all times.

To those that don't know, the E28 M5 is almost indistinguishable on the exterior from its contemporary 535is, but where the car truly differentiates itself is under the hood. Gone is the single overhead cam M30 and in its place, is the motorsports-derived S38B35. The top of the motor is a visual wonder, featuring a large cam cover for its dual overhead camshafts with “BMW M POWER” inscribed on the top, next to that sits six individual throttle bodies on full display, offering sharp throttle response and an induction sound that is second to none. This engine is the US version of the M88 which was found in the legendary BMW M1 supercar and produces 256 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque. It is then connected to a 5-speed manual gearbox that offers notchy and pleasant shifting and sends power to a limited-slip differential in the rear.

If it wasn't for the E28 M5, chances are good today's performance sedan landscape would look pretty different. It's safe to say that although this M5 didn't start the performance sedan segment, it moved the idea forward and created a blueprint for the type of driving dynamics buyers want in their sports sedans. With such limited production worldwide, these M5s are beginning to gain popularity among collectors and values are on the rise. As these cars were inexpensive for a time, finding one in truly great shape is remarkably difficult and this is a truly excellent car. With its subtle styling, excellent driving experience, and a solid place in automotive history, this M5 would be a welcome addition to any collection- regardless of what else is in the garage.