1981 BMW 5-Series I

Additional Info:

In 2021, I became the latest caretaker of this very special 1981 BMW 528i, and now it’s time for its next owner to enjoy it. This car has complete service records going back to its original owner and window sticker from 1981, which is an incredible archive. Very few cars of this quality and provenance become available in the private market.

Now, if you’re looking at this car, you may know that this is an E12, and you may know it was the only year for the highly-desirable 5-speed in the E12 chassis, but unless you’ve driven one, you don’t yet know how much fun it is. It’s a well-optioned sedan that can seat four adults comfortably, and offers a driver’s experience with nimble handling. There’s nothing quite like a BMW.

Previous owner had lost his indoor storage and was compelled to sell rather than let it live outside. I have maintained it in garage storage as well; it has not been outside overnight during my ownership.

Highlights:

Inline 6 engine, 170 hp / 170 CI – one horse per cubic inch, which was quite an achievement in its day

5-speed manual transmission, as is de rigueur for any discerning BMW owner.

Four-wheel disc brakes

Wood interior trim

Carefully-fitted seat covers on the front

Original 14-inch BBS wheels, including the spare tire

Full VDO instrumentation with speedometer, tachometer, temp gauge, fuel gauge, trip odometer

Functional digital clock

Full moonroof

Factory fog lights

Complete tool kit in trunk with spare wrenches and parts.

Original BMW service manual and owner’s manual

Service records to 1981

Haynes repair manual

Spare parts to include headlights, a bumper, the original radio, windshield wipers, etc.

Repairs and upgrades under my ownership have been minimal; it was in great condition and has not needed much to maintain its functionality and appeal. I replaced the original stereo with an identical unit that has a functional cassette player, and fitted a hidden radio antenna near the cowl as the original antenna was broken. There are also now four good 4x6 speakers in the car, so listening to music is now an option. I had also replaced an exhaust hanger and installed a new battery.

Of course, with any classic car, there will be imperfections. This is the complete list of known issues:

Power locks do not work.

Odometer works sporadically and true miles are unknown; however, cars of this vintage are considered on their condition, not mileage.

Front passenger window needs new tracks inside the door; it will operate properly for a couple of inches of travel and then become misaligned.

AC was working and cold when I bought the car in 2021; it no longer blows cold and may need a recharge of proper refrigerant.

Paint wears well for its age, but does show some fading on the roof.

Miscellaneous minor cosmetic issues.

Terms of sale:

This is an auction for a car that is sold as-is, where-is, with no guarantee or warranty of any kind. A non-refundable $500 deposit is due within 24 hours of auction’s end. Car has a clean and clear Pennsylvania Antique Vehicle title. Antique cars in Pennsylvania do not require either safety or emissions inspection.

Payment: Pursuant to eBay Secure Payment

Shipping: If you arrange for a shipper, I will assist with turning the car over to the shipper. I cannot arrange shipment, though.

Pickup: You’re very welcome to come and pick up the car in Harrisburg, PA. We’re not far from either Interstate 83 or 81.

Relisting due to strong interest but no buyer commitment. Lowered reserve. Don't miss out!