Dinan Tuned 5-Speed: 1990 BMW 735i

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The E32 BMW 7-Series is a somewhat underappreciated generation of BMW’s flagship model. It’s a large car so it’s not often seen as sporting; however, it is fairly athletic compared to a W126 Mercedes-Benz of the same era. One way it absolutely stands apart from the flagship Mercedes is by offering a rare 5-speed manual as standard equipment. This 1990 BMW 735i listed here on craigslist is such an example and it’s made rarer still by being outfitted with Dinan performance parts from the period, which are almost certainly extinct by now. The seller is asking $12,500.

Back when I had my E36-chassis BMW M3, one of the best upgrades I ever did was picking up a Dinan suspension for the car. If you don’t know, Dinan is effectively a factory-authorized tuner that started out with chips and air intakes and eventually evolved to produce a variety of high-performance parts. The suspension on my M3 was one of the best pieces of kit I’ve ever bought, with the handling absolutely fantastic and the Koni shocks providing a more comfortable ride than stock. The seller has upgraded his 7-Series with a Dinan chip and Dinan suspension.

While it may seem like off-the-shelf parts, Dinan really does breathe on everything it sells. I doubt you could buy the same suspension for this big body E32, as I’m guessing lowering kits for a 7-Series weren’t big sellers back in the day. The seller notes he has recently had the interior refinished, and the seats do look pretty spectacular. The rest of the cabin is in good condition with signs of wear here and there. As you can see in other photos, the 7-Series comes with a period car phone, as well as a CD changer, a limited slip differential, BBS wheels, and more.

The seller also shares that he the original owner, which is incredibly rare to find these days. Therefore, you have a unicorn BMW 7-Series with the elusive 5-sped manual, made even more desirable owing to the in-period Dinan upgrades and being with only one caretaker since new. The trunk carpeting is in spectacular condition, further suggesting a long-time existence as a pampered specimen. The seller certainly has a special car, and I’d love to drive it with vigor to hear all 208 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque singing while putting that Dinan suspension through its paces. Thanks to Barn Finds reader Mitchell G for the tip.

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Comments

  1. leiniedude leiniedudeMember

    Wow !

    Like 6
  2. Fox Owner

    There’s something heroic about piloting a large, heavy automobile at high speeds and a stick yet. That basic black though was getting played out, great looking interior just the same. California car means clean sheet metal.

    Like 8
  3. MarkMember

    Could be a great value. I had a 540i and looked at the 735, and went with the smaller BMW. However, these days, I would be very comfortable with this one owner, 125K mile ride. I am close, and am deciding to go and take a look.

    Like 1

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