BMW’s M Division had already cemented its reputation for crafting exceptional driver’s cars throughout the 1980s. This legacy was further enhanced in 1991 with the introduction of the E34-generation M5 sedan, a vehicle that elevated the standard for performance sedans. Building upon the already impressive E34 5-Series, the M5 received significant chassis upgrades, including bespoke dampers, springs, and thicker anti-roll bars. These enhancements were meticulously installed by hand at BMW’s Garching facility, continuing the tradition established by its E28 M5 predecessor.
Powering the 1991 Bmw M5 was the potent S38B36 3.5-liter DOHC inline-six engine. This powerplant delivered a remarkably smooth 310 horsepower, enabling the M5 to achieve a 0-60 mph sprint in just over 6 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph, figures that were highly competitive for its time. Visually, the M5 distinguished itself from standard 5-Series models through subtle yet effective cosmetic tweaks, such as a unique front spoiler and prominent BMW “M” badges.
BMW M Motorsport produced a total of 12,254 E34 M5s between September 1988 and August 1995. Of these, a limited number, 1,678 units, were imported to the United States and Canada during the 1991 to 1993 model years. North American specification models sold up to September 1992 were fitted with distinctive 17-inch BMW M System I wheels. These wheels featured a center brake cooling fan insert, a design element that, while debated by period journalists who sometimes likened them to whitewalls, is now considered a desirable and unique feature by many enthusiasts. For the 1993 model year, the North American M5 transitioned to the more conventional M System II “Throwing Star” alloy wheels, which offered improved brake cooling performance.
In 1991, while North America continued with the 3.6-liter engine, most other markets saw the introduction of an upgraded 3.8-liter SB38B38 inline-six engine, boosting power to 340 hp. Throughout its production run until 1995, the M5 retained the 5-speed manual transmission, except for the final model year. Cars produced in 1995 gained a 6-speed gearbox, making these models particularly sought after today. Similarly desirable are the 891 examples of the E34 M5 Estate Wagon (Touring) produced from 1992 onwards. Adding to the model’s exclusivity were special editions like the LHD Winkelhock and Cecotto versions, alongside a RHD UK special edition limited to the final 50 cars destined for the UK market.
The E34 M5 enjoys a strong and dedicated community of owners and enthusiasts today. This robust following provides extensive online support and a thriving aftermarket parts network. Common maintenance points for E34 M5s typically include motor and transmission mounts, and the timing chain tensioners, which are known to be somewhat fragile but can be effectively addressed by upgrading to a later E36 tensioner design – a widely recognized and practical fix within the community. The 1991 BMW M5 remains a highly respected and sought-after performance sedan, representing a golden era for BMW M and a benchmark for its class.
