1987 BMW E28 M5 for Sale – Malachite Green S38 Five-Speed Sedan
The 1987 BMW E28 M5 combines understated executive-sedan styling, motorsport-derived inline-six performance, direct five-speed manual control, and authentic long-distance comfort in one of BMW M’s defining early models. Finished in Malachite Green Metallic over Anthracite Buffalo leather, this privately offered example presents a sophisticated period combination complemented by gold-centered 16-inch BBS RS wheels. Its 3.5-liter S38B35 engine, limited-slip differential, non-sunroof body, heated power seats, driver-position memory, air conditioning, Blaupunkt audio, and anti-lock brakes create a richly equipped enthusiast specification. For collectors seeking discreet design, analogue involvement, and the distinctive character of BMW’s original hand-built super-sedan formula, this example offers considerable appeal.
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1987 BMW E28 M5 for sale
Engine and Performance
The naturally aspirated 3.5-liter S38B35 gasoline inline-six gives the 1987 BMW E28 M5 progressive throttle response, strong high-rpm energy, and the smooth mechanical character associated with BMW’s celebrated performance six-cylinder engines. Its broad operating range supports relaxed highway touring before becoming increasingly urgent, vocal, and rewarding as the engine approaches the upper portion of the rev band. A five-speed manual transmission places clutch timing, deliberate gear selection, and carefully measured throttle application at the center of every committed drive. The limited-slip differential helps distribute power across the rear axle and supports confident acceleration when leaving tighter bends or driving on changing road surfaces.
Engineering and Specifications
Examples produced from October 1986 onward received 25mm front and 18mm rear anti-roll bars, giving the chassis a purposeful foundation for controlled cornering and stable high-speed travel. Ventilated front discs and solid rear discs work with an anti-lock braking system, while the brake fluid was reportedly flushed in March 2023. Sixteen-inch BBS RS wheels feature gold-painted forged centers, polished lips, and 225/50 Goodyear EfficientGrip tires at each corner, while a factory spare with a Pirelli tire remains stored in the trunk.
Design and Heritage
The body combines a low beltline, slim pillars, quad headlights, crisp shoulder lines, restrained aerodynamic detailing, and a formal three-box profile in the unmistakable shape of the E28 generation. Malachite Green Metallic gives the angular surfaces elegant depth, while shadowed trim, polished wheel lips, gold BBS centers, and the absence of a sunroof preserve a clean and purposeful appearance. Inside, Anthracite Buffalo leather, heated power-adjustable front seats, driver-position memory, clear analogue instruments, air conditioning, Blaupunkt audio, and a VHF scanner create a distinctive cabin balancing luxury, technology, and period atmosphere.
Driving Experience
From behind the wheel, the 1987 BMW E28 M5 should feel compact, communicative, and progressively more intense as the S38 works through the five manually selected ratios. Rear-wheel drive, the limited-slip differential, firmer anti-roll bars, anti-lock disc brakes, supportive seating, and sensible tire dimensions create an experience centered on balance, rhythm, and disciplined inputs. On winding roads, unrestricted highways, collector tours, or relaxed weekend journeys, the BMW promises tactile shifting, linear acceleration, composed braking, and the cultured soundtrack of a naturally aspirated M engine.
Why This Car is Special
- Naturally aspirated 3.5-liter S38B35 gasoline inline-six
- Five-speed manual transmission with limited-slip differential
- Malachite Green Metallic over Anthracite Buffalo leather
- Desirable non-sunroof body with heated power-adjustable seats
- Gold-centered BBS RS wheels, ABS brakes, Blaupunkt audio, tool kit, and factory spare
Specifications
- Year: 1987
- Model: 1987 BMW E28 M5
- Engine: Naturally aspirated 3.5-liter S38B35 gasoline inline-six
- Transmission: Five-speed manual
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive with limited-slip differential
Collector and Enthusiast Appeal
The 1987 BMW E28 M5 appeals because it combines discreet executive styling, a motorsport-related engine, manual operation, rear-wheel drive, and meaningful comfort equipment within one coherent package. Its Malachite Green finish, Buffalo leather cabin, S38B35 engine, five-speed gearbox, limited-slip differential, non-sunroof construction, anti-roll bars, ABS-equipped disc brakes, BBS RS wheels, Goodyear tires, heated seats, memory function, air conditioning, Blaupunkt system, VHF scanner, tool kit, and factory spare provide substantial technical and historical depth. Rather than relying on aggressive visual treatment, this M5 delivers authentic driver interaction, long-distance refinement, and the increasingly special experience of controlling an early BMW M sedan through three pedals.
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The 1987 BMW E28 M5 combines sophisticated Malachite Green presentation, expressive S38 performance, tactile five-speed control, and understated motorsport heritage in one memorable German sedan. It represents a compelling opportunity for enthusiasts who value discreet engineering, period luxury, and the enduring authority of BMW’s original M5 formula.