BMW M5 E28
The hand-built progenitor of the super-saloon dynasty.
- Power
- 286 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.2 s
- Top speed
- 152 mph
- Est. value
- $55k–$195k
About the BMW M5 E28
The E28 M5 is the car that defined the modern high-performance executive saloon, combining a discreet four-door body with the race-bred M88/3 engine from the M1 supercar. Hand-assembled by BMW Motorsport in Garching, it was the fastest production saloon in the world at its launch, offering a level of performance that rivalled contemporary Ferraris and Porsches. Its understated 'sleeper' aesthetic, featuring only subtle aerodynamic aids and cross-spoke BBS wheels, hides a chassis extensively tuned with Bilstein dampers and a limited-slip differential. As the first official M5, it remains a cornerstone of BMW's heritage and a highly sought-after analog icon for collectors.
BMW M5 E28 specs
The BMW M5 E28 produces 286 bhp (213 kW) and 340 Nm (251 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and has a top speed of 152 mph (245 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | M5 |
| Generation | E28 |
| Trim | M5 |
| Years | 1984–1988 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 2,241 built |
| Original price | About $47,000 when new |
| Engine | 3.5-litre straight-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,453 cc (3.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 286 bhp (213 kW) at 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 340 Nm (251 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,900 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.2 s |
| Top speed | 152 mph (245 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,430 kg (3,153 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 200 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a BMW M5 E28 worth?
A typical BMW M5 E28 is estimated to be worth $55,000 – $195,000 (about £41,000 – £145,000).
Its original price when new was about $47,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
BMW M5 E28 rarity in CarSpot
The BMW M5 E28 is an Epic card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 70 out of 100. Supercars and serious performance cars, typically worth around £100,000 to £250,000. An Epic card is worth 80 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
BMW M5 E28 fun facts
- BMW originally planned to build only 500 units for North America, but eventually produced over 1,200, leading to a class-action lawsuit from owners concerned about exclusivity.
- The E28 M5 was the last M5 to be hand-assembled at the BMW Motorsport facility rather than on a standard production line.
- North American models were slightly detuned to 256 hp due to the addition of a catalytic converter, using the S38 engine variant.
