The 1977 BMW 530i represents the foundation of the modern sports sedan, yet this specific E12 chassis has evolved far beyond its factory roots. Originally known as the “Barnyard Bimmer” project in European Car magazine, it has undergone decades of refinement by dedicated enthusiasts. Today, it stands as a sophisticated tribute to the M535i, finished in striking Salmon Silver Metallic with Motorsport-style striping. Every modification on this car was chosen to enhance the visceral connection between the driver and the asphalt. It combines vintage shark-nose aesthetics with the legendary reliability of a later-generation 3.5-liter inline-six engine. This BMW is a functional piece of automotive journalism history that remains ready for the open road.
Salmon Silver Aesthetics and M535i Styling
The exterior of this 1977 BMW 530i has been carefully updated to mirror the aggressive look of the rare European M535i. While it left the factory in Polaris Silver, the current Salmon Silver Metallic paint provides a deeper, more modern luster. An M535i-spec front spoiler and a replica rear wing give the car a much more purposeful stance. To complete the European look, the owner installed slim Euro-spec bumpers and removed the bulky North American corner markers. Triple-color Motorsport stripes run along the beltline, paying homage to BMW’s racing pedigree from the late seventies. These visual changes transform the conservative sedan into a focused, period-correct performance machine.
Custom M1 Inspired Wheels and Chassis
One of the most distinctive features of this 1977 BMW 530i is the set of custom-manufactured 16-inch wheels. Inspired by the legendary BMW M1, these wheels feature “Campagnolo” lettering and a classic multi-spoke design. The suspension has been fully overhauled under current ownership to provide modern handling characteristics without sacrificing the E12’s inherent charm. Bilstein dampers paired with H&R springs lower the center of gravity while adjustable ST Suspensions anti-sway bars minimize body roll. New front control arms and tie rods ensure the steering remains precise and communicative through every corner. This chassis setup makes the car feel remarkably agile for a sedan of its vintage.
Driver Focused Interior and Custom Audio
Inside the cabin, this 1977 BMW 530i features a mix of period-correct upgrades and modern convenience for long-distance cruising. FloFit front seats provide much-needed lateral support during spirited driving, finished in a clean gray leatherette that matches the rear bench. A high-end audio system is cleverly concealed to maintain the vintage look, utilizing eight Infiniti speakers and four subwoofers. The driver interacts with the machine via an M535i-specification steering wheel and a matching shift knob for the Getrag transmission. Air conditioning remains functional, which is a rare and welcome luxury in a modified classic from this era. Coco Mats protect the floorboards while adding a touch of traditional European texture.
Overhauled M30B35 Engine and Drivetrain
The mechanical heart of this 1977 BMW 530i is a 3.5-liter M30B35 inline-six sourced from a 1991 535i. This engine was fully overhauled by Bullet Performance prior to installation, including a fresh head gasket and new timing components. Power is sent through a Getrag 265 five-speed manual transmission, which was swapped in place of the original automatic unit. This specific gearbox is highly prized by BMW enthusiasts for its durability and precise shift feel. The open rear differential features 3.45:1 gears, providing a balanced ratio for both city acceleration and highway speeds. Recent maintenance on the clutch hydraulics ensures the drivetrain operates with the smoothness one expects from a premium build.
Performance Output and Exhaust Specifications
The M30B35 engine in this 1977 BMW 530i delivers a significant performance boost over the original factory-installed powerplant. It breathes through a full SuperSprint exhaust system, including performance headers that allow the inline-six to sing at high RPMs. This setup eliminates the original catalytic converters and emissions equipment, focusing purely on power delivery and engine efficiency. The overhauled alternator and fresh ignition components ensure the engine fires reliably under all conditions. Supplemental VDO gauges in the center stack allow the driver to monitor oil pressure and temperatures in real time. This mechanical package delivers a linear, torque-rich powerband that makes the E12 feel truly alive on mountain passes.
Summary of a Refined E12 Classic
The 1977 BMW 530i is a landmark vehicle that proved luxury and performance could coexist in a mid-sized four-door body. This modified example takes that concept to its logical conclusion by incorporating the best components from later BMW generations. Its history as a magazine project car ensures it has been scrutinized and improved by experts for over thirty years. The combination of M30B35 power and a Getrag five-speed manual makes it a formidable driver’s car by any standard. With its unique Salmon Silver finish and M1-style wheels, it captures the spirit of BMW’s golden age. It represents a rare opportunity to own a fully sorted, documented, and exceptionally stylish piece of E12 history.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
