Models · BMW
BMW M5 E34 buying guide
The E34 M5 was built by BMW Motorsport from 1988 to 1995 with the S38 twin-cam straight six, first as a 3.6 and from 1992 as a 3.8. It's a durable engine when maintained, and the checks focus on originality, cooling, the gearbox and the body.
The versions
- 3.6: S38B36 straight six, 315PS (1988 to 1992)
- 3.8: S38B38 straight six, 340PS (1992 on), with EDC electronic dampers
- Saloon; a left-hand-drive Touring joined in 1992
- 5-speed Getrag manual; 6-speed manual from late 1994
- Optional Nürburgring package with wider rear wheels
What to check on a E34 M5
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
The right engine
What to look for: Open the bonnet and confirm it has the S38 twin-cam six, with its distinctive individual throttle bodies, and ask for paperwork matching the engine to the car.
Why it matters: Some cars have had lesser engines fitted after a failure. An original, maintained S38 is central to the car's value and character.
Cooling system
What to look for: With the engine cold, check the coolant level. On the drive, the temperature needle should stay in the middle, including at idle at the end. Look for coolant leaks and listen for the viscous fan roaring on and off.
Why it matters: The water pump, thermostat and viscous fan coupling all cause trouble on these cars, and overheating risks the head gasket. Records of cooling work are reassuring.
Head gasket and engine health
What to look for: Look for coolant leaks, smoke from the exhaust, heavy fumes from the oil filler with the engine running, and listen for knocks.
Why it matters: These are the signs of head gasket failure or tired internals. The S38 is a big job to rebuild, so a specialist inspection is wise on any car without strong history.
Also in the full guide
- Gearbox synchros and noise
- EDC dampers on the 3.8
- Low power from a vacuum leak
- Rust
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the E34 M5
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with BMW.