BMW M5 E34 Review: The Iconic Grand Tourer Rediscovered
The BMW M5 E34 stands as a benchmark in the grand tourer segment—where raw performance meets elegant refinement. This review uncovers why this 1980s icon continues to command admiration among enthusiasts and collectors today.
The Legacy and Engineering Excellence
Built between 1987 and 1993, the M5 E34 redefined performance sedans with its 3.5-liter inline-six producing 286 horsepower and a responsive 5-speed manual transmission. Its rear-wheel-drive layout, independent suspension, and precision steering made it a driver’s dream, seamlessly blending track-ready capability with daily usability.
Performance and Dynamic Driving Experience
The E34’s 0-60 mph time of under 6 seconds and exceptional handling—enhanced by optional sport suspension—offered a thrilling yet balanced ride. With production limited to just over 1,000 units, its rarity fuels demand, while its balanced chassis delivers confidence in curves and straightaways alike.
Interior Comfort and Timeless Design
Inside, the E34 combines functional luxury with classic BMW detailing. The analog instrumentation, soft leather, and intuitive controls exude warmth, while modern upgrades preserve its vintage charm. Though basic by today’s standards, the cabin remains a haven of minimalist sophistication.
The BMW M5 E34 is more than a car—it’s a masterclass in performance and design from an era defined by mechanical purity. Whether you’re a collector or a driving enthusiast, this timeless grand tourer proves why it remains one of the most respected M5s ever built. Experience the M5 E34’s enduring legacy—where power meets elegance.
The E34 generation took the M5 squarely into the 1990s, thanks to substantially-modernised styling, and a smooth new interior. The fabulous in-line six received various modifications to boost power to 315bhp, pushing the top speed to a limited 155mph. King of the hill from the moment it was launched, rivals struggled to match the M5's intimacy, balance and pace.
Further improved in 1994. The BMW E34 M5 is the grand daddy of the modern M monster, but it's a very different car from what the M5 has become. Unlike many BMW models where the mainstream versions are announced some years before an M variant arrives to reignite interest, the M5 was an integral part of the initial E34 5 Series line-up, sitting in the 1988 cohort alongside the 520i, 525i, 530i and 535i petrol variants, and the 524td diesel.
The E34 BMW M5 of the '80s and '90s, with its husky body and four round headlights, still gets dismissed as an also. The BMW E34 M5 Touring, the first-ever high-performance estate from BMW M, is a rare classic with only 891 units made. Featuring a 340 hp S38 engine and hand-built craftsmanship, it blends.
Discover the BMW E34 M5, the ultimate 1990s sports sedan. Hand-built, powered by the legendary S38 engine, it was fast, balanced and truly the gentleman's missile. On a recent launch of the latest BMW M5, I had the opportunity to drive one of its predecessors: the E34 M5.
A glorious straight-six engine, a simple rear wheel drive chassis, and Eighties. The first M5 Touring is a PH Hero because it retains so much of what made a great M5 saloon so good, particularly in 3.8-litre form, then melds that prowess to a seriously handsome estate body. The E34, aka the second-generation BMW M5, was produced between 1989 and 1995 and remains, to this day, one of the most critically acclaimed Bimmers in.
Discover the full review of the BMW M5 Touring (1993 - E34) on CompleteCar.ie, featuring performance, practicality, technology, safety and Irish pricing.