This automobile was a premiere for BMW M and at the same time the start of a success story: In 1979, the BMW M535i became the first vehicle produced in series from BMW M, back then still BMW Motorsport. The specialist press and customers received the strongest BMW E12 5 series with something approaching euphoria, coining phrases like “M for Muscles” or “The Bavarian Power Station”.
A new dimension of understatement: extraordinary performance in reserved form.
5 POWERFUL FACTS:
- First series model from BMW M
- Modified sports suspension
- Output: 160 kW (218 hp)
- Construction period: 04/1980 to 07/1981
- Production number: 1,650
THE REVOLUTIONARY.
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.
UNMISTAKEABLE LINEAGE.
Still today, insights from motor sport flow into BMW M series vehicles, the roots of the marque can be found in every automobile bearing the most powerful letters in the world. As it was with the first series model. The engine in the BMW M535i is based on that of the BMW M1. The 3.5l straight six-cylinder motor of the most powerful E12 5 series has the potency to match: 160 kW (218 hp) and 310 Nm.
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.
TECHNICAL DATA.
BMW E12 M535i.
Engine: Straight 6-cylinder
Capacity: 3,453 cm³
Output : 160 kW (218 hp) at 5,200 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed sports gearbox
Top speed: 222 km/h
Weight: 1,430 kg
Length: 4,620 mm
Width: 1,690 mm
Height: 1,425 mm
Wheelbase: 2,636 mm
Number produced: 1,650
This Edelweiß Express, which should really only be sold to those of exemplary character, gives the impression of being almost weightless. The driver only needs to stroke the accelerator and every overtaking manoeuvre becomes a pleasure.
OPTICAL UNDERSTATEMENT.
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.
SPORTS INTERIOR.
Even though the exterior alterations were restrained, in the interior the developers at BMW Motorsport undertook a few particularly sporty changes to the E12 5 series. The striking Recaro seats were especially developed to deal with the BMW M535i’s wide splay, offering excellent grip in every situation and great comfort for longer journeys. The leather steering wheel with the three spokes is a sports version in the BMW M1 look. Absolute certainty that the BMW M535i is a sports car is furnished by the speedometer: the M model’s goes up to 240 km/h.
A BMW sedan which promises particularly intense pleasure, despite looking at first glance like a normal 520 or 528i.
A SPECIALITY.
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.”
ALWAYS A RARITY.
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.
