VALUE MY CLASSIC – BMW 5 Series (E28)

Every week our experts help classic owners find out what their classics are really worth. This week, we find out what this E28-generation BMW 5 Series, owned by CCW reader Howard Edgar, is worth today

VALUE MY CLASSIC – BMW 5 Series (E28)

by Abbie Blundell |
Published on

HOW LONG HAVE YOU OWNED IT?

Since April 2018. I saw it advertised online privately for £5000 and I was very taken by the colour. I got it for £4250. As far as I am aware mine is one of only two left this colour in the UK. I have since spent close to £10k bringing it up to what I feel is a ‘nice’ condition. My biggest improvement has been the interior re-trim. The velour fabric, which was exclusive to Lux models, was prone to wear and the fabric has been obsolete for decades. A local upholster was able to find a near-original match.

HOW MUCH HISTORY DOES IT HAVE?

There’s partial service history as evidenced through the original BMW service booklet with the last stamp dated 2003. Thereafter the car was owned by a BMW mechanic who undertook his own servicing. My BMW had four previous owners before I bought it.

HAS IT BEEN MODIFIED?

Finding tyres for the original metric wheels is increasingly difficult so they were repalced some years ago with an alternative set of BMW rims, which I’ve recently had refurbished. An immobiliser was also fitted because the car was being used regularly, including for long work journeys, until a year ago.

WHAT’S LEFT TO DO ON IT?

The recent cosmetic wheel arch paint repair doesn’t appear to have been of a good quality so will have to be re-done. The front suspension would also benefit from re-bushing and I’d like to have a coat of black satin stonechip applied to the sills, but this is me being picky. It’s currently insured for £8000.

WHAT WE THINK IT’S WORTH - £9250

Russ Smith, CCW’s price expert: ‘These fine and now pretty scarce E28s are starting to really accelerate in value. Ones that have enjoyed this level of care and attention are even rarer. I’m also right with you on that colour, which is probably even more eye-catching now than it was when it was new back in 1987. If I were you, I’d up that insurance valuation by a little over £1000 and enjoy the car while it keeps on re-paying you.’

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