1980 BMW M535i E28
By Lorenzo Bianchi December 5, 1980
At the beginning of the 1970s, the New Class was replaced by the first models of the BMW 5-Series. The latest computer technology had already been used to generate paradigmatic solutions in the area of passive safety. The first models 520 and 520i were presented in 1972. A collaboration with BMW Motorsport GmbH launched the Type M535i as the flagship model of this series in 1979. The car was powered by a 3.5 litre engine and featured particularly exclusive equipment. It included a chassis engineered with sporty tuning, Recaro seats at the front and BMW Motorsport stripes and spoilers at the front and rear on request.
The first M-badged 5 Series was the M535i, which began production in 1980. The M535i is powered by the 3.5 L (214 cu in) M90 straight-six engine which produces 160 kW (215 bhp). The sole gearbox choice is a 5-speed manual and 1,650 M535i cars were produced (including 240 CKD for South Africa). Features include optional front and rear spoilers, optional M-striping, sports suspension, Recaro sport seats, the steering wheel from the BMW M1, a dogleg close-ratio transmission, a limited-slip differential and larger brakes.
The M535i is considered to be the predecessor to the BMW M5 model, which has been produced since the E28 generation.