Few manufacturers have changed the game the way BMW has. And here's further proof. Back in the day, BMW South Africa created some truly unique models – notably the 745i, the 333i, and the 530 MLE to name a few. And while the 530 MLE could be credited as the first unofficial M5, the 1986 E28 M5 was officially the first M5 – a car that made BMW a legend.
And special it was, because even though South Africa was such a tiny country, we received 100 units, while the UK only got 200! Aside from 96 cars which were assembled in kit form at BMW's Plant in Rosslyn, South Africa, all E28 M5s were assembled by hand at BMW Motorsport in Garching, Germany.
What was more interesting was that despite being mechanically identical to international models, our M5’s was the most upmarket spec available – featuring a host of BMW M Division parts including a complete M Technic bodykit, as well as its Shadowline trim and Pirelli-shod 7.5x16-inch cross spoke alloy wheels. The SADM M5 was also limited to just five colours - Henna Red, Ice White, Cirrus Blue metallic, Delphin Gray metallic and Diamond Black metallic.
The engine fitted to the M5 was also very different from that used in the 535i. It was powered by a revised 3.5-litre M88/3 motor that was a descendant of the unit used in the M1 supercar. Compared to the 535i motor, this featured 24V utilizing a twin OHC setup, versus the 12V SOHC setup in the 535i. Special forged pistons raised from compression from 10.1 to 10.5:1, while stronger conrods and a steel crank was also used.
According to Tony Viana, the bottom end was easily capable of 8,500rpm, but its Bosch Motronic ECU dialled back peak rpm to 6,900rpm in the interests of longevity. The cylinder geometry also differed, with the M5 featuring a 93.4mm bore and an 84mm stroke, versus the 535i’s less square 92 and 86. Lastly, special equal-length headers and a freer flowing exhaust system were fitted that took output to 210kw and 340nm.
The M5 also used a strengthened Getrag 5-speed manual transmission, and an LSD with a 25% lock. Thanks to this, the 1.5 ton M5 could sprint from 0-100kph in a Porsche 944 Turbo-rivalling 6.75 seconds, whilst the standing kilometre took just 26.94 seconds. A true sportscar-like top speed of 250kph was also easily achievable, despite the speedometer reading 270kph. Braking was also regarded as spectacular thanks to 4-piston calipers up front, while the rear featured a disc and drum setup.
On the inside, all South African-built E28 M5s are fitted with just about every available 5 Series luxury item as standard equipment, the only extra-cost option being a power sunroof. Unique to the South African version is a complete “Highline” Nappa leather interior normally offered only in E24 6 Series and E23 7 Series models. Available in four color choices (Lotus White, Natur, Midsilver and Indigo), the interior included Nappa leather on the seats, door panels, center console, glovebox door, headliner, sun visors, upper door trim and dashboard. As a result, the luxuriously appointed M5 offered comfortable seating for four, whilst delivering genuine sportscar performance.
With a total production of 2,241 units, the E28 M5 remains among the rarer regular production BMW Motorsport cars – after the BMW M1 (456 units), BMW E34 M5 Touring (891 units), and the BMW 850CSi (1510 units). When it was introduced in 1987, it was priced at R109 970, and raised the bar for saloon car performance, a trait that BMW has now mastered, and once again showcased with its latest F90 M5.
Also worth a look: the BMW Glc and the BMW M3.
FAQ
Q: What does a 1987 BMW M5 E28 cost in South Africa?
A decent 1987 BMW M5 E28 will set you back between R450,000 and R750,000 depending on condition, mileage, and originality, with pristine examples commanding well over R900,000.
Q: Is the 1987 BMW M5 E28 worth buying as an investment?
Absolutely, the E28 M5 is a solid investment with only 100 units ever sold in South Africa, making it rarer than hen's teeth and values have been climbing steadily over the past decade.
Q: How much power does the 1987 BMW M5 E28 produce?
The E28 M5's 3.5-litre M88/3 engine produces 210kW and 340Nm of torque, making it properly quick for its era and still entertaining today.
Q: What should I look out for when buying a 1987 BMW M5 E28?
Check for rust around the wheel arches and door frames, ensure the M88 engine has been properly maintained with regular oil changes, and verify all the M-specific parts are original and intact.
Q: How fast is the 1987 BMW M5 E28?
The E28 M5 hits 100kph in just 6.2 seconds and tops out at 245kph, making it an absolute weapon that could embarrass much more expensive supercars of its day.
Should You Buy It?
The best classic BMW investment under R800,000 in South Africa is definitely the 1987 E28 M5. With only 100 cars ever sold locally, this is your chance to own a piece of South African BMW history that's only getting more valuable. Yes, you should absolutely buy one if you can find a good example, but expect to pay between R450,000 and R750,000 for a decent runner, or well over R900,000 for a concours-condition example. Just make sure you budget extra for maintenance because these hand-built legends demand respect and proper care.
