BMW M5 (original irish)

An opportunity that rarely presents itself. The BMW E34 M5, the last hand-built BMW produced at the factory, powered by the legendary S38B36 straight-six. Derived from the engine developed for the BMW M1, period road testers praised its instant throttle response, mechanical precision and spine-tingling straight-six soundtrack, delivered via six individual throttle bodies. Widely regarded as the finest sports saloon of its era, the E34 M5 combined supercar performance with genuine everyday usability like few cars before or since.

This Irish E34 M5 is believed to be the first registered in Ireland and received its original pre-purchase inspection at Motor Import, Dublin’s BMW franchise, carried out by a well-known individual who remains part of the Frank Keane BMW team today.

The current owner of eight years is a well-known BMW M enthusiast, BMW Classic Club member and meticulous perfectionist, having owned over 20 BMWs. His philosophy has been to sympathetically return the car to its original glory, with a strong focus on how the car drives and feels. The M5 has featured prominently at classic car events, including the Retro Cannonball on three occasions, and was specifically requested by BMW Ireland for display at the Irish launch of the new 5 Series in 2024.

Never requiring a full restoration, the car has instead been carefully revitalised over eight years, with detailed photographic documentation throughout. Particular attention has been paid to reinstating the car’s core systems and rare specification, ensuring climate control, ABS and cruise control all function exactly as intended.

The S38 engine has been maintained by respected BMW specialists, with annual servicing, valve clearance adjustments and throttle body balancing carried out consistently. Recent work includes a new OE water pump and viscous coupling, along with comprehensive vacuum leak testing completed in 2025, confirming the engine to be in excellent health.

A full suspension refresh has been completed following extensive E34 M5 club research, resulting in excellent ride and handling. The clutch system has also been overhauled with a brand-new OE Sachs three-piece E34 M5 clutch kit, braided clutch hose and new slave cylinder.

The often-overlooked climate control system has been comprehensively restored, including blower, resistor, condenser and compressor switch, with rare high-specification components sourced from Germany and the USA. A new windscreen with OEM surround trim, fitted using original clips and retainers, completes the exterior detailing.

All parts have been sourced directly from BMW or specialist OEM suppliers in Germany, Ireland and the USA. This is a superbly sorted, highly documented and increasingly rare example of BMW Motorsport’s most revered saloon.

An opportunity to acquire a BMW that has been part of Irish car culture for the past 36 years. Although not concours, a mechanically exceptional car that needs nothing but a new owner.