Basic information and history

The 1988 BMW 535i represents a period when the brand's large four-door models combined long-distance comfort with classic engineering. The distinctive 3.5-liter M30 inline-six delivers a smooth and responsive drive, and together with the five-speed manual transmission, the drivetrain is engaging without losing its user-friendliness. For many enthusiasts, it is precisely the balance between robust mechanics, low-revving character and period-typical driving environment that makes the 535i particularly interesting from this model year range.

This example is imported from Germany (previous registration plate HOM 154G) and is reported to have an odometer reading of only 108,300 kilometers . The car is picked from the factory in a more economical version with 0282 Havana brown fabric interior, supplemented with a sunroof and electric windows all around. In the trunk there is a spare wheel on original BBS rims. According to the seller, all electrical functions work as they should. There is a small pixel error in the display, which is common for the model. It can be seen in one of the pictures in the interior album. As a curiosity, it can be mentioned that a 535i with fabric interior is a less common choice, which gives a discreet and period character. The car is sold without reservation!

Equipment and options

• M30 inline-six of 3.5 liters, approximately 210 horsepower and 310 newton meters
• 5-speed manual transmission
• Sunroof
• Electric windows front and rear
• Central locking
• 0282 Havana brown fabric interior
• Original BBS rims
• Spare wheel on original BBS rim in the trunk

Actions taken and deviations noted : Left front fender has been repainted after a scratch and the shade appears slightly darker in some angles. Windshield replaced on 2026-03-06. All fluids have recently been replaced with new ones. Otherwise, the car appears to be mainly original with no performance-enhancing modifications reported.

Condition

Body and exterior : The paint is described as being in good condition for its age with some washing scratches. There are two small, soft dents on the bonnet and a small door flap on the left rear door. There is a slightly rougher scratch on the front fender by the turn signal. The left front fender has been repainted after a scratch and can be perceived as slightly darker in shade in certain lighting conditions. Glass surfaces are in good condition. The windscreen was replaced on 2026-03-06, which took place after the majority of the 360 photos and detail photos were taken, while the hero photos show the car with the new window. Moldings, headlight lenses, chrome and emblems are stated to be without any complaints.

Interior : 0282 Havana brown fabric interior in very good condition with light normal wear on the steering wheel. No pixel errors in the panel display. Controls and buttons work as they should and feel fresh for their age. The headliner is in good condition and does not sag. There are a few small marks on the dashboard in front of the passenger seats.

Tires and rims : Older tires with plenty of tread left all around. The rims have paint wear.

Mechanics and function : The drivetrain is described as very good. The M30 engine runs silky smooth and is connected to a 5-speed manual transmission. The brakes work as expected. The gearbox and other drivetrain are said to be in as good condition as the other mechanics. A noted fault is that the central locking does not lock the front passenger door.

Service history

According to the seller, the service book has been stamped up to 100,475 kilometers . The book has then been put away and has not yet been located after the current owner took over the car. All fluids are stated to have been recently changed, but without a date specified in the documentation here. Other receipts or certificates are not specifically mentioned. Interested speculators should ask the seller to verify available documentation before making a deal.

Summary

An imported BMW 535i from 1988 with a manual five-speed gearbox and M30 inline six in good mechanical condition, 108,300 kilometres according to the report and a well-preserved 0282 Havana brown cloth interior. The body shows signs of use with minor marks and a repainted front fender. The windscreen has recently been replaced and all fluids have been replaced. Note that the central locking does not lock the front passenger door. Overall, a well-maintained and relatively modestly specified example with the correct feel, ready for both driving and further refinement.