1986 BMW 535i SE E28

An exceptional example of an E28 BMW 535i SE, finished in the striking and highly desirable Zinnobar Red. This is a car that has been cherished rather than merely used, with just 60k miles from new, fully backed by service and maintenance records as well as MOT history

Notably, the car's history also includes a period of celebrity ownership, having previously been owned by comedian Russell Kane.

SE, not M535i — best of both worlds

The M535i is usually the first name enthusiasts reach for, thanks to its aggressive body kit and firmer, sport-tuned suspension that made it the range-topping halo model of its day. But this 535i SE runs the very same magnificent M30 3.5-litre straight-six engine, in BMW's more refined, road-biased specification — built for those who wanted the performance of the range-topper, but in a more discreet package and without sacrificing the comfort that made the E28 such an accomplished long-distance cruiser.

This car blurs the line beautifully. It carries the desirable factory front and rear spoilers, lending genuine visual drama usually associated with the M-badged car and has been further enhanced with lowering springs and Spax adjustable dampers all round — delivering sharper turn-in, flatter cornering and a noticeably more purposeful stance, without losing the SE's easy, everyday useability.

A genuine rarity

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Whilst, the E28 was never scarce in period, decades of rust, neglect, and attrition have thinned the ranks considerably — the 535i SE in particular is now a rare sight. Only a small handful remain road registered in the UK today, making this an increasingly difficult car to source in any condition, let alone one with this specification, condition and ownership history.

Spec highlights

5-speed manual gearbox — increasingly rare and the transmission every enthusiast wants
Slide/tilt sunroof
Headlight washer system
On-board computer
Front and rear spoilers
Electric windows
Upgraded sound system
Condition — exceptional

Presented in fantastic condition inside and out. Ahead of sale, the car has undergone professional multi-stage paint correction, finished with a 5-year ceramic coating for lasting protection.

The underside has been professionally ice-blast cleaned stripping away decades of grime and secondary under seal, whilst preserving the car’s original, before being fully recoated for long lasting anti corrosion protection. The result is a car that is as impressive on the ramp as it is on the road — a rare thing indeed in an unrestored 40-year-old classic.

With its most recent service in January 2026 at 59,888 miles and valid MOT until April 2027, the car is ready to be used and enjoyed.  Furthermore, from April 2027, the car will be able to registered as an Historic Vehicle and as such MOT, Road Tax and ULEZ exempt.

In summary

With the BMW E28 model now increasingly sought after, especially in the larger engined configurations, this example is a rare, honest, beautifully presented example with genuine history, sympathetic upgrades and show-ready condition throughout. With a manual gearbox, genuine low mileage, comprehensive documented history and although unrestored, at a level of presentation few examples can match, it represents a fantastic opportunity both for the enthusiast and discerning collector alike.

Recorded Mileage:
60,151 miles
Fuel type:
Petrol (unleaded)
Engine capacity:
3430cc
Exterior colour:
Zinnoberrot (Zinnober Red)
Engine output:
215 hp @ 5500 rpm. 229 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm
Interior colour/trim:
Dark Grey/Cloth
Transmission:
5 speed manual
Date of registration:
12/05/1986
Steering:
RHD
MOT expiry:
07/04/2027