1992 BMW 525iT with S52 Swap

The touring version of the E34 5-series maintains the restrained and boxy good looks of the sedan while adding the cargo-carrying versatility of a longroof. The result is a cool and understated hauler that flies under the radar. Unfortunately, these cars were let down by the rather uninspired engine choices that BMW gave US customers. Only two versions of the touring were available here: the 525i and the 530i. The 525i was a little slow (although the 2.5 liter inline six is otherwise a gem of an engine) while the 3.0 liter V8 that came in the 530i was a bit of a dud. It had all the thirst of V8 but with fairly meagre power output (around 215 hp). The far more desirable versions of the touring – the 540i and M5 – were never sold in the US. This means that if you want one with something special underneath the hood, you have to get creative. Which is exactly what this seller has done, transplanting the engine from a ’96 M3 and adding some M5 external styling accessories.

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1992 BMW 525iT with S52 Swap on Bimmerforums

Year: 1992
Model: 525i Touring
Engine: 3.2 liter inline-6
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Mileage: 222,000 mi (chassis); 87,000 mi (motor)
Price: $9,000

I’ve owned the Touring 10 years so it’s had quite a bit of work over that period. I have a 3″ binder full of receipts including a BMW history report for the cars that the engine, DME, and auto trans came out of. It has a 96 S52 w/50k miles on it installed at 185k on the car. Currently shows 222k so still less that 100k on the engine. Mobile 1 and BMW filters since I’ve had it. It has a Turner EWS delete chip installed. The swap was done by a BMW master tech in the BMW dealership I worked in at the time. H&R springs, still has SLS although M5 struts in the back. It has the automatic 4L30E behind the S52, which was never an option, but has worked fine for my needs ( I don’t dog it). The original trans installed with the engine swap lasted 8 years before I had it rebuilt a couple of years ago. Portland driveshaft, rear dif replaced a couple of years ago with a 45k miles unit. Just had the rear carrier bushings replaced. New steering box also done. Just redid the headliner except for the actual sunroof panels. I have the sunroof switch disconnected as I never use it and don’t want anyone else to play with it. Worked fine when last used but don’t want to push my luck with all the plastic parts in it and the lack of replacement parts. The front end has been built. Brakes are recent w/semi metallic pads (less dust) Custom stitched M3 steering wheel, Z3 CD43 in dash CD player, chrome gauge trim w/M5 bezel. New windshield imported from Germany. Car was painted original color a couple of years ago and I even replaced all the stainless trim with new pieces. Stock exhaust with aftermarket cat and Schnitzer tailpipe extension. AC is cold. I have comfort seats in it but also have a set of matching sport seats available. Genuine 93 M5 side mirrors and M5 sill plates. Side and rear pieces came from a 91 M5 and front piece was ordered new. The car does have the proper M5 badges on it (because I like the look so no apologies). E63 wheels (4 fronts) and tires are about 2 years old but not much miles on them. Great driving car and my Corgi’s have no trouble seeing out of it (which is why I still have it). Depo smileys with good euro bulbs and no complaints. Just redid the roof rails while I had the headliner out. There are a couple of little things that could stand to be addressed but nothing major. I’d drive this car anywhere. I don’t want to sell the car locally because I couldn’t stand to see it driving around. I do have some spares that go with it which includes a new alternator, AC compressor, and PS pump because the originals still work fine but you never know…. I have around $25-$30k invested in this over 10 years and only reason for selling is old age and bad knees so I I’ve bought something else easier to get in and out of.

I’d be curious to hear the full the story behind the engine swap. I wonder whether a 4.0 liter M60 from a 540i sedan would have made more sense? Still, the 240 hp offered by the S52 lump, sourced from an E36 M3, should be enough to give this wagon a performance edge that it’s unmodified counterparts lack. The car benefits from a recent respray in its original color of cashmere beige and the exterior is set off nicely by the addition of some authentic M5 parts, namely the front and rear lower valences, side skirts and side mirrors. The sunroof is currently inoperable and some other minor flaws are noted but overall it looks to be in very good condition. The seller appears to be a knowledgeable enthusiast who can provide a comprehensive history of the car’s maintenance along with a few extra spare parts to go with the sale.

As far as I can tell, the only drawbacks are the wheels, which I think don’t suit the car, and the M5 badges, which I think are a bit tacky and are sure to draw the ire of M-purists. If I were buying this, I’d throw on a set of period correct rims (style 5s would be my choice) and remove the M5 badges; both easy fixes. It’s also a shame it’s still running an automatic gearbox. This car is crying out for a manual conversion to complete the package.

– Craig