
Equipment
Island Green metallic paintwork, Silver-Grey velour upholstery, 15-inch cross-spoke alloy wheels, 4-speed automatic transmission, Leather steering wheel, Electric sliding sunroof, Electric windows front and rear, Heated electric door mirrors, Rear seat headrests, Dash clock, Blaupunkt radio with USB and aux connectivity, BMW toolkit, Front fog lights, Spare alloy wheel.
Exterior
Island Green is one of those quintessential early-90s BMW colours that has become increasingly sought after in recent years. Subtle yet distinctive, it perfectly complements the E34’s crisp styling, giving the car a sophisticated presence that’s as elegant now as it was back in the day. Having driven only 61k miles from new, this particular 520i – with the later, more powerful 24v straight six – remains in superb condition throughout. It has been honestly preserved over the years and displays only light signs of wear making it a genuinely usable example to be enjoyed without hesitation. The exterior trim, glass, and brightwork all present well, contributing to an overall appearance that is both smart and original.
Interior
The cabin is trimmed in classic Silver-Grey cloth. Comfortable and durable, the velour upholstery is a welcome alternative to leather which definitely would not have aged this well. Inside, the car presents beautifully with well-preserved seats, clean carpets, original overmats, and remarkably fresh switchgear. The dashboard and door trims all remain in excellent order, and the headlining is clean and sag-free. A splendid place to be, the interior recalls an era when understated German quality took precedence over unnecessary complexity and tech.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Under the bonnet sits BMW's later 2-litre 24v M50 straight-six, an important development over the earlier 12v engine. Smoother, more powerful, and more free-revving, it delivers the silky refinement for which BMW's naturally aspirated six-cylinder engines have become renowned. This example drives exactly as an E34 should. The engine and gearbox are both reassuringly smooth, and the car feels well composed on the road. Recent maintenance includes a full service, brake fluid change, a full set of Continental tyres, and a clean MOT. Fresh from a mechanical inspection at the current mileage, it’s a well sorted example that offers the solid, confidence-inspiring driving experience for which the E34 has earned such a loyal following.
History File
Having covered just 61k miles from new, this lovely Island Green E34 has clearly benefitted from enthusiastic ownership and careful maintenance over the years. It has had 7 keepers in total and boasts a recent full service, new tyres, and four-wheel alignment. It was supplied new in the UK in 1991 and is accompanied by a raft of invoices for servicing and maintenance, MOT certificates, its first registration certificate, and the current V5C showing 6 former keepers.
Combining low mileage, the later and more desirable M50 24v engine, a superb colour combo, excellent driveability and great overall condition, this handsome E34 is exactly the sort of modern classic that will continue to grow in appreciation among enthusiasts. Ready to be driven and very much enjoyed.