THE BMW E12 M535i.

When the BMW M535i was launched in 1980, it brought worlds together which had hitherto been separate: sporty driving, comfort and elegance and all in the dimensions of a top-of-the-range limousine. A revolutionary idea, because at the time the more potent engines were reserved for luxury limousines, coupés or classic sports cars. The new top model of the BMW E12 5 series went its own way: four doors, understated design, the latest technology and an engine straight out of motorsport distinguished the BMW M535i. One brochure for the vehicle put it aptly: “A top-of-the-range limousine, compact and businesslike, but with the performance and driving potential of a sophisticated sportscar.” Thus, the first performance model was born.

With this performance and weighing just 1,430 kilos, the BMW M535i achieved pretty impressive statistics for its time. To get from 0 to 100 km/h, the limousine took just 7.5 seconds and the top speed was 222 km/h according to the works. In 1980, German car magazine auto motor und sport reported some even more impressive figures: In their test, the M535i took only 7.0 seconds to reach the ton from a standing start and the top speed was an astonishing 227.8 km/h.

Because peak output is already available at 5,200 rpm and maximum torque achieved at 4,000 rpm, the 5 series was in a position to leave even greater-capacity 8-cylinder engines in its wake.

Externally, the strongest 5 series makes an understated impression: No major changes to the bodywork, so that the hand of French designer Paul Bracq remains clearly recognizable on the BMW M535i. Extended lines, generous amounts of glass and a low waistline characterize the bodywork. Supplemented by typical BMW elements: double headlights and Hofmeister kink in the C-pillar. The M automobile exclusively had the iconic cross-spoke alloy wheels. Nowadays, we associate them above all with the BMW E30 M3, although in fact the M535i had them as standard six years previously. 

Those wanting to highlight more of the limousine’s assets did so via the optional equipment. Special spoilers at the front and on the boot lid distinguished the M535i not just from the other 5 series models, they also improved the aerodynamics. The trim stripes in the M colours inside and out are purely decorative and a visual manifestation of the car’s motor sports roots. But even with these attributes the M535i wasn’t as conspicuous as most would have expected in this performance category. So “a wolf in sheep’s clothing” is still the most common epithet applied to the M535i even today.

Alongside the fusion of comfort and sportiness there were two watchwords for the developers of the BMW M535i: handling and safety. Which is why the vehicle was given a new suspension. Special struts and gas pressure absorbers were enhanced by a limited-slip differential on the rear axle and disc brakes on both axles. The result of these modifications was a fascinating road performance which even in borderline situations conveyed a feeling of absolute safety. Or as Autozeitung put it in 1980: “It’s hard to enjoy the driving experience in this car and retain one’s driving licence for very long.” auto motor and sport agreed: “The technicians have managed to find […] a chassis tuning better than any other in the current BMW programme.”

It’s unthinkable today, but back then the news that the most powerful letter in the world was now to be had in series had to get around first. So BMW Motorsport had to make provisions, as reported by Autozeitung in 1980: “One important accessory: every purchaser of a works M535i gets an additional handbook. When the car has to go to the workshop, BMW Motorsport advises owners to tell their mechanics about the changes made or ideally just give them the handbook.” An idiosyncrasy spared drivers of today’s BMW M 5 series automobiles.

Today, BMW E12 M535i’s are rare and seldom offered on the popular online platforms. When they are, prices for vehicles in good condition are around €40,000. This figure is nearly the car’s launch price in Germany in DMark: in the early 80s, the M535i cost DM 43,595.