The 1988 BMW 535is stands as the final and most refined iteration of the legendary E28 chassis for the North American market. This Alpine White example represents the pinnacle of eighties executive sport sedan design, now enhanced with a driver-focused five-speed manual conversion. Having spent its entire life in California, the car has been thoughtfully modified to improve its handling and aesthetic presence. It features the signature front and rear spoilers that distinguish the “is” model from its more pedestrian 5-series siblings. While the high mileage and minor cosmetic repairs reflect its long history on the road, the mechanical updates suggest a car built to be driven. It offers a pure, analog experience that modern luxury sedans simply cannot replicate in today’s digital world.
Classic Alpine White Exterior and Style 5 Upgrades
The Alpine White paintwork highlights the timeless shark-nose profile that has made the E28 a permanent favorite among BMW collectors. Multi-piece 17-inch Style 5 wheels, sourced from an E39, provide a much more aggressive stance than the original factory alloys. These wheels feature gray-finished centers and are wrapped in Continental ExtremeContact tires for superior grip. To create a sleeker look, the bumper shocks have been compressed, bringing the heavy diving-board bumpers closer to the body. While the roof and hood were previously refinished, the car maintains an authentic, used character that tells a story of decades on California highways. A retractable antenna and dual central exhaust outlets complete the rear profile, maintaining the classic sport sedan silhouette that enthusiasts crave.
Upgraded Black Leather Cabin and M Tech Styling
Inside, the interior has been significantly refreshed with black leather bucket seats that replace the original Pearl Beige upholstery. This darker theme provides a more focused environment for the driver, complemented by an iconic M Tech I steering wheel. The cabin retains its classic driver-centric dashboard, featuring a 160-mph speedometer and a functional onboard computer. Air conditioning and cruise control remain present, ensuring the car is comfortable for more than just spirited weekend blasts. A Pioneer head unit has been installed to provide modern audio capabilities, though the original analog charm of the E28 remains intact. Power windows and a sunroof add a level of convenience that made the 535is a premier executive choice in 1988. It is a cabin designed for high-speed transit and total mechanical control.
Enhanced Chassis and E38 Braking Components
The chassis has received a comprehensive suite of upgrades to sharpen the handling of this vintage sport sedan. Bilstein dampers and aftermarket sway bars work together to reduce body roll and provide a much more planted feel in the corners. Stopping power is significantly increased thanks to the retrofit of E38-specification brake components, which offer a larger surface area and better heat dissipation. A front strut tower brace spans the engine bay to further increase the rigidity of the aging steel structure. These modifications transform the E28 from a soft cruiser into a capable back-road weapon that rewards an attentive driver. The inclusion of a limited-slip differential ensures that power is delivered effectively to the pavement when exiting tight turns.
M30 Inline-Six Performance and Drivetrain Specs
At the core of this 1988 BMW 535is is the 3.4-liter M30B34 inline-six, an engine famous for its bulletproof reliability and smooth power delivery. Factory rated at 182 horsepower and 213 lb-ft of torque, this big-six has been updated with an aftermarket air intake and exhaust system. The most significant change is the removal of the automatic gearbox in favor of a crisp five-speed manual transmission. In January 2025, the engine and transmission mounts were replaced to ensure the drivetrain remains stable under heavy load. A previous head gasket replacement further speaks to the ongoing mechanical maintenance this car has received over its 216k-mile life. This mechanical combination provides the quintessential BMW experience of a naturally aspirated engine singing through a row-your-own gearbox.
Summary of the E28 Sport Sedan
The 1988 BMW 535is is a rare opportunity to own a modified classic that has been built with a clear focus on the driving experience. Its history as a lifelong California car and its recent emissions success provide peace of mind for West Coast buyers. The five-speed manual conversion and suspension tuning address the primary weaknesses of the original factory configuration. While the Carfax notes a mileage inconsistency and minor past damage, the car presents as a solid, turn-key enthusiast vehicle. It is a machine that rewards the driver every time the M30 inline-six climbs toward its 6,100-rpm redline. This Alpine White beauty is ready for its next owner to continue the legacy of the ultimate driving machine on the open road. It remains a definitive icon of an era when BMW truly ruled the sport sedan market.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
