I love my E28 and it’s still the generation for me, but the earlier BMW model lineup intrigues me, piqued by the Bavaria down the street I bike by every day and ranging from the 2002 to the E9 and E12. Today’s example of the first BMW midsize sedan to truly be a 5er is impeccable, even after 130k miles thanks to one careful owner. The interior’s leather and wood combo looks fantastic over three decades on. There are a few bumps and dings, reflecting that it is a real car that has seen real use, but overall it shows the kind of love and attention that I wish all classic car owners would give to their autos, from the well-maintained engine bay to the impressively-clean tool tray. With no reserve and a low starting point, this could be a cheap entry into a great mix of classic luxury and sportiness.
Click for more details: 1981 BMW 528i on eBay
Year: 1981
Model: 528i
Engine: 2.8 liter inline-6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 129,807 mi
Price: No reserve auction
This is an all original one owner 1981 BMW 528 I, 5 spd
-Carfax/Autocheck certified (has passed emissions inspections every time) average Autocheck score is 15-36 this car received a score of 39. Report available upon request.
-Original title (pink slip)
-The car has been in California since new as evidenced by both it’s original “blue and yellow” license plates
-Garage kept and very well maintained since new
-129,807 low original miles
-She starts right up and runs extremely well
-Idle is as smooth as a Rolex and the 2.8 lt 6 cylinder gasoline engine sounds amazing! Very fast!
-No leaks, smoke, overheating or strange noises
-The clutch is A+++ and shifting through all the gears is effortless
-The brakes, steering and suspension are all solid and tight along with the entire drivetrain.
-All mechanical, electrical and climate control systems are in good working order
-All windows and sunroof work flawlesslyCosmetically the car is stunning!
-All original 100% rust free body, chassis and frame
-All original beautiful paint finish (minimal nicks, dings and chips,etc.)
-No accidents/one small imperfection behind driver rear door (see pic)
-Superb chrome, trim, moldings, etc.The interior is gorgeous!
-No foul odors
-Non Smoker Car
-Excellent seats, dash, door panels headliner.
-Nice wood console
-Clean carpetingThis car is impressive in every way! She is fast and and an absolute pleasure to drive. The new owner will be pleased.
This is a NO RESERVE auction so the high bidder will be the lucky new owner.
Bidding has been hot but not high, and the mileage and dings may keep some away. I see a car that has lived at most half its life and probably has a lot longer to go. I hope someone can buy it, do a little ding repair, and keep this bevented 528i cruising in style for many more decades.
-NR
A word to the wise from someone who’s been there: if this really is original paint the new owner needs to go to great lengths to keep it from spending any amount of time in the sun. BMW clear coats from this era weren’t very stout when new and they do not get better over time.
The rest of the car looks to be in amazing condition. I wish I was in a position to bid because my old ’79 528i is still one of my favorites. Unfortunately it is on the wrong coast and I don’t have a good place to keep this car.