BMW M5 E34
The final hand-built M5 and the ultimate evolution of the S38 straight-six.
- Power
- 340 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.7 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $25k–$75k
About the BMW M5 E34
The E34 M5 3.8 represents the peak of BMW's hand-assembled era, featuring the final and most powerful iteration of the M1-derived S38 engine. Introduced in late 1991 for the European market, this update increased displacement to 3.8 litres and added the Nürburgring suspension package as standard, significantly sharpening the car's handling. It was never officially sold in North America, making the 3.8-litre variant a highly sought-after import for collectors. The car is celebrated for its understated 'sleeper' aesthetic, exceptional build quality, and a high-revving, naturally aspirated character that defines the analogue M car experience.
BMW M5 E34 specs
The BMW M5 E34 produces 340 bhp (254 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | M5 |
| Generation | E34 |
| Trim | M5 3.8 |
| Years | 1988–1995 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 12,254 built |
| Engine | 3.8-litre inline-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,795 cc (3.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 340 bhp (254 kW) at 6,900 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,250 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.7 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,650 kg (3,638 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 206 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 E34 worth?
A typical BMW M5 E34 is estimated to be worth $25,000 – $75,000 (about £19,000 – £56,000).
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 E34 rarity in CarSpot
The BMW M5 E34 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 41 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 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 E34 fun facts
- The E34 M5 was the last BMW M car to be hand-assembled at BMW M's Garching facility rather than on a standard production line.
- The 3.8-litre engine featured a distributor-less ignition system with six individual coils, a significant technical leap over the earlier 3.6-litre version.
- While the top speed was electronically limited to 250 km/h, derestricted examples are known to reach nearly 270 km/h (168 mph).
