1997 BMW 535i E39 5.7-litre LS V8/6-speed manual swap

Highlights

• LS V8 engine conversion carried out by Guinea Pig Racing
• Tremec T-56 6-speed manual gear fitted
• MOT valid until 16th August 2027
• Partial service history documenting work prior to conversion
• Ultimate "wolf in sheep's clothing" German sleeper saloon
• Will be on display at https://foodfuel.co.uk/ Saturday the 10th of October
• Was given the peoples choice award at Food & Fuel by Auto Alex & Co

The Appeal

To the casual observer, this looks like any other E39 5 Series - a car widely regarded as one of the most accomplished executive saloons of its era, celebrated for its balanced chassis, refined ride, and understated elegance. However, this car is so much more than that: a 5,665cc LS V8 professionally installed by Guinea Pig Racing and a 6-speed manual gearbox lurk under the skin. The vendor describes it as a true sleeper, entirely unassuming in appearance until the key is turned, and says it is "bonkers" to drive whilst retaining the comfortable E39 character.

We love sleepers, and this is among the most accomplished we've seen. For those who want serious performance while cruising beneath the radar in what is ostensibly a sensible German saloon, this 5-Series offers an unrepeatable opportunity.

Key Information

• Mileage: 146,000 miles (indicated; odometer pixels are noted as slightly hard to read but still legible)
• Country of registration: United Kingdom
• Technical inspection status: MOT valid until 16th August 2027
• Technical specs: 5.7-litre LS V8, Tremec T-56 6-speed manual gearbox
• Paperwork: partial service history available, documenting work carried out prior to the engine conversion

The Detail

• On cold start, revs need to be held at approximately 1,500 rpm briefly as the standalone ECU interfaces with the original E39 electric throttle; the vendor reports it runs fine thereafter
• Blowers reportedly work correctly
• Instrument cluster functions as standard - an impressive feat given the nature of the conversion
• Fitted with a working shift light for a visual cue when approaching the redline
• Very presentable paintwork, wheels, and trim, showing light wear commensurate with age
• The interior shows some wear in line with the car's mileage, but is in smart order overall and well-presented for sale
• Very clean engine installation; the work was clearly carried out to a very good standard

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.

✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle